#11: A/Prof Elliot Tapper - Liver legends, lies and lactulose

Today we had the privilege of talking to a true superstar in the world of Hepatology.

Elliot B. Tapper MD is an Associate Professor in the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Michigan. He is Academic Chief of Hepatology. His primary goal is to empower patients to enjoy a high quality of life. He is an expert in the management of chronic liver disease, performance of clinical trials, and big data for the study of liver disease. He has developed strategies that reduce symptoms and improve quality of life and invented tools that have helped keep patients with cirrhosis at home and away from the hospital. He is the Editor-in-Chief of Hepatology Communications.

In this episode, A/Prof Tapper discusses his journey in hepatology, the impact of social media on medical education, and his innovative research on muscle cramps and pickle juice. He debunks common myths surrounding methotrexate and liver disease, explores the complexities of ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy, and shares insights on frailty in liver disease management. The conversation also touches on the evolving perspectives on antibiotic prophylaxis in cirrhosis and the critical importance of diagnostic paracentesis. Elliot emphasizes the positive aspects of hepatology and the exciting developments in the field.

As always comments, questions and feedback please send to: X: @2guystalkingit

Email: 2guystalkingit@gmail.com

Chapters

05:08 Introduction to Elliot and His Work

08:14 The Power of Social Media in Medical Education

11:10 The Fascination with Pickle Juice and Muscle Cramps

14:00 Innovative Research During COVID-19

17:01 Exploring Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions

20:04 Debunking Myths Around Methotrexate and Liver Disease

23:10 Addressing Misconceptions About Medications

25:56 The Impact of AI on Medical Literature

28:56 The Ammonia Debate in Clinical Practice

30:17 Understanding Ammonia as a Clinical Biomarker

37:28 Assessing Frailty in Liver Disease Patients

44:20 Reevaluating SBP Prophylaxis in Cirrhosis

49:03 The Importance of Diagnostic Paracentesis

52:34 The Positive Side of Hepatology

Keywords

Elliot Tapper, hepatology, liver disease, medical education, social media, muscle cramps, methotrexate, ammonia levels, frailty, antibiotic prophylaxis, diagnostic paracentesis