Objectives: Hyperpigmented lesions are a common presentation in the dermatology outpatient department and causes significant burden on the dermatologist. Though they are harmless and asymptomatic in most cases they are a cause for concern because it can lead to cosmetic deformity which can cause psychological upset in the patients. Rare lesions are often misdiagnosed clinically because of overlapping clinical features. The aim of this study was to diagnose rare hyperpigmented lesions with the help of skin biopsies and correlate he findings clinically. Methods: All skin biopsies coming to the department of Pathology were processed and stained by routine H&E stain. Special stains were applied whenever required (Ziehl-Nelson, periodic acid Schiff, Congo red). Results: 56 cases were studied of which 27 rare lesions were diagnosed. All the cases were subjected to analysis according to age, sex, site of lesion, duration of lesion and clinicopathological correlation. 75% of the cases showed histopathological correlation in our study. 25% of the cases did not show concordance. Conclusion: Hence to conclude histopathological examination of skin biopsies forms the gold standard for the diagnosis of hyperpigmented skin lesions more so in the case of rare lesions as most of them have overlapping clinical features which can be mistaken for common lesions.

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The recent pandemic due to Corona virus more popularly known as COVID 19 has reassessed the usefulness of historic convalescent plasma transfusion. (CPT) The CPT is one of the promising therapies in the current pandemic situation. This review was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of CPT therapy in COVID 19 patients based on the publications reported till date. PubMed, EMBASE and Medline databases were screened up to 30 April 2021. All the records were screened as per the protocol eligibility criteria.  The main features of the studies reviewed were, convalescent plasma can reduce mortality in severely ill patients, an increase in neutralizing antibodies titre and disappearance of SARS CoV 2 RNA was observed in all the patients on CPT therapy and over all a beneficial effect on clinical symptoms after administration of CP.  Based on the review findings and the limited scientific data, CPT therapy in COVID 19 patients appear safe, clinically effective and reduces mortality. However, the need of a multicentre clinical trials, unequivocal proof of efficacy, effectiveness and the need for the standardisation of the CPT needs to be addressed immediately for the full utilisation of potential of CPT.

Introduction: The Competency-based curriculum is the turning point in medical education and holds much potential in the current trends of medical transformation in India. It provides an outcome-based approach with the integration of knowledge, skills, attitude, values, and ethics. In comparison to the older curriculum, it differs in clarity, cohesion and has a comprehensive approach. Methods: The study aims to discuss and evaluate in detail the process and establishment of a competency-based medical curriculum in the pathology department and highlights the ups and downs of the experience. It was set up following the guidelines provided by NMC under competency-based undergraduate curriculum for the Indian medical graduate, state university guidelines references from the internet, and peer review from other institutions. Results: The new curriculum has bought many positive changes and requires a radical change in the approach of faculty, institution, and students. Discussion: General preparedness, outgoing and flexible attitude, consistency, and long-term commitment to a transformation from being a facilitator will be the prime needs to make the new “Indian medical graduate.”