2. Assignment
Find an example of everyday neurobiology either in your own life, the
life of someone you know, or as displayed in some form of media (e.g.,
a stranger’s video on Youtube). Using what you have learned in this
course,
• identify the cellular elements and regional parts of the nervous
system that are active in your example,
• describe the functions of the nervous system that are apparent
and/or impaired in your example, and
• explain in detail the ways in which this course has allowed you to
better analyze the events and phenomena around you
3. Example
My colleague, a computer programmer, has MS and occasionally experiences a
flare-up, at which time he can no longer work at his usual capacity. I decide to
speak about how the MS is affecting his nervous system, and in what ways this is
impacting his motor abilities. I interview him briefly to hear about his experiences,
and I then incorporate this interview into my project. In my own words, I describe
what he has said, occasionally quoting him. I then note the elements affected in MS
(central myelinated axons), describe which pathways were affected in my
colleague’s case of MS, and cite Professor Mason’s lectures about MS and the
module on anatomy. I talk about what processes take place when my colleague
experiences a flare-up. Having researched this online, I describe the process in my
own words and cite my source. I then spend some time describing how this class
has taught me to better understand the suffering of others and to be able to help
them also understand their hardships.
• Note: It is not necessary to use any information outside of your own experience
and that of this class, but you are welcome to go beyond this if you wish.
4. Introduction
My friend’s sister, a housewife had fever and sudden paralysis along her
left side. Upon diagnosis, the doctor informed that it was due to viral
infection at the brainstem. The doctor also informed that this is a rare
case.
I recall the Module 2 lectures about peripheral diseases and
microorganisms that can cross into the brainstem. I believe the patient
might have contracted viral encephalitis. The possible cause could be
an arbovirus which can be transmitted by mosquitos. Malaysia is a
tropical country hence mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue is
common.
5. Analysis
Patient is bit by
mosquito
harbouring virus
The virus enters
bloodstream and
arrives at the
brainstem
The virus causes
inflammation at the
brainstem
Patient suffers fever
and paralysis along
one side
Patient is treated
with antiviral drug
and is under
constant monitoring
Infection is subdued
and patient is
undergoing
recovery
6. Conclusion
I explained the details to my friend and she now has a better
understanding of her sister’s diagnosis.
To date, her sister is now recovering and undergoing physiotherapy,
doctor is confident that she will heal completely.
