HPCH 208 : Clinical Biochemistry

Lecture Notes 1 : Basic concepts in Biochemistry of

Biomolecules and Disorders

Mr Willmore Chingwena
Room 146, Dept Biotechnology and Biochemistry
University of Zimbabwe
By the end of these Lecture, you will be able to know the
following :
Briefly explain the meaning of the term clinical biochemistry
Discuss the significance of clinical biochemistry
 basic knowledge

sugar, lipids and proteins

various metabolic processes occurring

When these chemical processes don't work properly due to a

hormone or enzyme deficiency, a metabolic disorder occurs
This course describes the changes to the body’s
chemistry when affected by diseases. The course
includes specimen collection and processing, water
and electrolytes balance, hydrogen ion homoeostasis
and blood gases, the kidneys, plasma proteins, clinical
enzymology.
Hours
36hrs (lectures)

12 practicals

Weights

Tests and Assignments 30%

Practicals 20%

Paper I 50%

TOTAL 100%
What is Clinical Biochemistry?

Also known as:

•Clinical Chemistry
•Pathological Biochemistry
•Chemical Pathology
Biochemistry, Medical Biochemistry &
Clinical Biochemistry
• Biochemistry deals with chemical or metabolic
processes which take place in tissue cells.

organized form Disorganization occurrence

healthy we fall ill or even die.

biochemists provides the special techniques and knowledge to the
solution of clinical problems.

Biochemical investigations

 suggestion of remedies (rickets, scurvy)

 provided vitamins and hormones in pure conditions
 preparation of vaccines, antitoxins, sera, etc
 recombinant DNA technology, genetic engineering,
 chemical tests as aids in the diagnosis of diseases
Importance of Clinical Biochemistry

• Offers biochemical information of underlined disease for management

of patients

• Such information is of value only if:

– Reliable
– Accurate
– Its significance is appreciated by physician for clinical decision-making
Challenges in Clinical Biochemistry

• Large volume testing: – Has led to drive towards laboratory

automation

• Need for balance between research & service provision –

Research take time