Comprehensive knowledge of the regional anatomy of the pelvis, abdomen, thorax, breast, thigh, endocrine glands, hypothalamus, spinothalamic tracts and meninges. Detailed knowledge of relevant bones, joints, muscles, blood vessels, Lymphatics, nerve supply and histology. Basic understanding of cell structure.

Embryology

Comprehensive knowledge of gametogenesis and fertilisation, of organogenesis and the development of the embryo in all body systems, of the development of placenta, membranes and amniotic fluid and of structural changes in the newborn.

Statistics and Epidemiology

Understanding of commonly used terms and techniques. Interpretation of results of research investigations.

Endocrinology

Comprehensive knowledge of all hormones and humoral agents (both sexes) including their chemistry, formation from precursors, storage, release, transport, mode and site of action, regulation and distribution in all body compartments as well as their physiological and pathological activities.

Microbiology

Comprehensive knowledge of the characteristics, recognition, prevention, eradication and pathological effects of all commonly encountered bacteria, viruses, Rickettsia, fungi, protozoa, parasites and toxins, including an understanding of the principles of infection control.

Immunology

Comprehensive knowledge of immune mechanisms, both cell-mediated and humorally mediated, and of the principles of reproductive immunology, graft-host interaction, immunisation, immunosuppression, allergies and anaphylactic reactions.

Pharmacology

Comprehensive knowledge of the properties, pharmacodynamics, actions, interactions and hazards of drugs and anaesthetic agents commonly used in the mother, fetus and neonate. Detailed knowledge of the principles of teratogenicity and of prescribing during pregnancy and lactation.

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Physiology

Comprehensive knowledge of human physiology with particular reference to the male and female reproductive systems, pregnancy, the fetus and the neonate. Quantitative information about common physiological activities. Understanding of the principles of nutrition, water, electrolyte and acid base balance and cell biology.

Pathology

Comprehensive knowledge of general pathological principles including general, tissue and cellular responses to trauma, infection, inflammation, therapeutic intervention (especially by the use of irradiation, cytotoxic drugs and hormones), disturbances in blood flow, loss of body fluids and neoplasia. Detailed knowledge of common pathological conditions.

Genetics

Understanding of the structure and function of chromosomes and genes. Knowledge of the principles of inheritance of chromosomal and genetic disorders. Detailed knowledge of common inherited disorders and of common fetal malformations.

Biochemistry

Comprehensive knowledge of the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids, of the roles of vitamins, minerals and enzymes and of the composition and regulation of intracellular and extracellular fluids. Detailed knowledge of the processes involved in steroidogeneses, placental function and materno-fetal interactions.

Biophysics

Knowledge of the physical principles and biological effects of heat, sound and electromagnetic radiation. Understanding of the principles of laser, electrocardiography, isotopes, X-rays, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging.