METHODOLOGICAL APPROACHES FOR PEDIATRIC STUDENTS TO STUDY THEME "SKIN AND ITS DERIVATIVES" IN COURSE OF HISTOLOGY, CYTOLOGY AND EMBRYOLOGY

Abstract

The aim is to reveal methodological approaches to the mastering of the topic "Skin and its derivatives" by future paediatricians in the study of the discipline "Histology, Cytology and Embryology with Peculiarities of Childhood". Methods used include analysis, generalization, and systematization of scientific and methodological research.
 In the system of higher medical education, histology, cytology and embryology is a fundamental discipline that introduces students to the principles of clinical mind-set necessary for further training and differential diagnosis. Over the course of this discipline, future doctors master special terms and learn to compare theoretical information with the structure of histological specimens (by using visual aids representing morphological structures), as well as to describe them using histological nomenclature.
 In the course of discipline "Histology, Cytology and Embryology with Peculiarities of Childhood", students learn the ultramicroscopic and microscopic arrangement of human body structures with peculiarities of their formation in childhood, their development and changes in various periods of life. The objectives of the discipline are to provide students with knowledge about the molecular basis of functioning and regeneration of cells and their derivatives, bout morphogenesis processes and the adaptive and restorative capabilities of organs, with emphasis on the childhood peculiarities; to teach students to interpret the patterns of human embryonic development and to determine critical periods of embryogenesis, malformations, and aberrations.
 The Department of Histology, Cytology and Embryology has introduced specialised training that enables paediatricians to meet the individual needs of their professional self-determination and the formation of clinical mind-set. The classrooms are equipped with stands, models, macroand micro-samples to enhance better understanding of the development, structure and possible pathologies of tissue and organ formation. Visual aids and demonstrational materials contribute to a better comprehension of the processes of gastrulation, histoand organogenesis, sources of development of structural elements of the human body and their age-related changes. A paediatrician must have a thorough knowledge of the histological structures of the child's body in order to assess specific conditions, as each age group has certain morphological and functional characteristics of tissues and organs. Having knowledge about the timing of the development of structures and forms of their restructuring is necessary to decide in specific cases whether these changes are manifestations of abnormalities that need to be corrected or whether they are the result of incomplete development of the child's functional system.
 The use of modern methodological approaches to the study of the topic "Skin and its derivatives" encourages students to acquire quality knowledge about the peculiarities of skin structure at different ages, which will be used by future paediatricians to establish diagnoses, choose optimal treatment methods, prevent skin diseases and determine the types of skin care for children of different ages, especially newborns.