Unit 3: Haematological, Endocrine & Nervous System Diseases

February 21, 2026

Semester 2
BP204T

Introduction to Haematological, Endocrine & Nervous System Diseases

Unit 3 covers a broad range of common diseases. From blood disorders (Anemias, Hemophilia) to hormonal imbalances (Diabetes, Thyroid disease) to neurological and psychiatric conditions (Parkinson’s, Epilepsy, Schizophrenia). As a Pharmacist, you need this knowledge to counsel patients effectively.
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Syllabus & Topics

  • 1Haematological Diseases: Iron deficiency anemia – Cause, pathogenesis, features.
  • 2Megaloblastic Anemia: Vitamin B12 deficiency and Folic Acid deficiency.
  • 3Sickle Cell Anemia: Genetic basis, HbS polymerization, clinical features.
  • 4Thalassemia: Alpha and Beta thalassemia.
  • 5Hereditary and Acquired Hemolytic Anemia.
  • 6Hemophilia: Types A and B, factor deficiencies.
  • 7Endocrine System: Diabetes Mellitus – Type 1 (IDDM) vs Type 2 (NIDDM), pathogenesis.
  • 8Thyroid diseases: Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism (Graves’ disease), Goitre.
  • 9Disorders of Sex Hormones.
  • 10Nervous System: Epilepsy – Pathophysiology, types (Grand mal, Petit mal, Partial).
  • 11Parkinson’s Disease: Dopamine deficiency in Substantia Nigra.
  • 12Stroke (CVA): Ischemic vs Hemorrhagic.
  • 13Psychiatric Disorders: Depression – Role of Monoamine deficit (Serotonin, NE).
  • 14Schizophrenia: Dopamine Hypothesis.
  • 15Alzheimer’s Disease: Role of Acetylcholine deficit, Amyloid plaques.
  • 16Gastrointestinal System: Peptic Ulcer Disease – H. pylori, NSAID-induced.

Learning Objectives

Classify Anemias: Categorize anemia by cell size (Microcytic, Normocytic, Macrocytic) with examples.
Explain HbS: Describe the single amino acid substitution in sickle cell anemia.
Distinguish DM Types: Compare Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes by mechanism.
Parkinson’s Mechanism: Explain the role of dopamine depletion in Parkinson’s and the basis of L-Dopa therapy.
Peptic Ulcer: Explain how H. pylori and NSAIDs cause peptic ulcers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the difference between Iron Deficiency and Megaloblastic Anemia?

Iron deficiency anemia is Microcytic (small RBCs). Megaloblastic anemia (Vitamin B12/Folate deficiency) is Macrocytic (large RBCs with immature nuclei).

Q2. What is the genetic defect in Sickle Cell Anemia?

A point mutation in the beta-globin gene: Glutamate (Glu) at position 6 is replaced by Valine (Val), causing Hemoglobin S (HbS) to polymerize under low O₂ conditions.

Q3. What causes Parkinson’s Disease?

Degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the Substantia Nigra (basal ganglia) leading to Dopamine deficiency. This causes motor symptoms: Resting Tremor, Rigidity, Bradykinesia, and Postural Instability (TRAP).

Q4. What is the Dopamine Hypothesis of Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is associated with overactivity of dopaminergic pathways (especially mesolimbic pathway). Antipsychotic drugs (e.g., Haloperidol, Clozapine) block D2 receptors to reduce psychotic symptoms.

Q5. How does H. pylori cause Peptic Ulcer?

H. pylori produces urease (converts urea to ammonia, damaging mucosa), disrupts the protective mucus layer, and triggers inflammation, allowing gastric acid to damage the epithelium.