JAMA Clinical Reviews

Join Allyson M. Pishko, an Assistant Professor of Medicine in Hematology Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania, as she dives into the complexities of immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP). She explains the critical nature of early diagnosis and treatment options like plasma exchange. The conversation highlights the innovative role of caplicizumab in enhancing patient care, the importance of monitoring treatment responses, and the risks associated with catheter placement, shedding light on this rare but life-threatening disorder.

In this engaging discussion, Jennifer Wargo, Arlie Clark Professor of Surgical Oncology and Genomic Medicine at MD Anderson Cancer Center, explores how the human microbiome can influence cancer risk and treatment outcomes. She emphasizes the importance of a diverse microbiome in immune function and discusses strategies like dietary changes and fecal transplants to enhance treatment efficacy. Wargo also highlights how lifestyle factors, including exercise and nutrition, can play a pivotal role in improving cancer prognosis, urging a reevaluation of antibiotic use for patients.

In this engaging discussion, Sawsan As-Sanie, a Professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Michigan and endometriosis expert, addresses the complex world of this painful condition affecting many women. She explains how endometriosis is often misdiagnosed and emphasizes the significance of timely, symptom-based diagnosis. The podcast dives into the latest imaging techniques, treatment options, and the condition's systemic implications, highlighting the importance of tailored management for improved outcomes.

What is the single most important thing to recognize when communicating with families about vaccines? Author Sean T. O’Leary, MD, MPH, of the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and Children’s Hospital Colorado joins JAMA Senior Editor Anne Cappola, MD, ScM, to discuss evidence-based approaches for discussions with parents about vaccines. Related Content: Strategies for Communicating With Parents About Vaccines

Joining the discussion is Alan F. Barker, a Professor of Medicine specializing in pulmonary health at Oregon Health and Science University. He clarifies non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, a chronic lung condition impacting over 500,000 Americans. The conversation highlights its symptoms like persistent cough and sputum production. Barker dives into the importance of diagnostic tools like chest CT scans and discusses effective management strategies involving antibiotics and airway clearance methods to enhance patient quality of life.

Sherri-Ann M. Burnett-Bowie, an Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, dives into the latest recommendations on vitamin D supplementation. She discusses the challenges of getting enough vitamin D from natural sources and fortified foods. The conversation highlights the safety and efficacy of supplementation, especially in disease prevention for both children and adults. They evaluate the impact of dosage across different age groups and clarify guidelines, emphasizing personalized approaches for at-risk patients.

Lauren J. Taylor, a surgeon at the Central Virginia VA Healthcare System and author of JAMA's Communicating Medicine series, joins JAMA Senior Editor Anne Cappola for a revealing conversation. They explore three essential communication skills for surgeons, emphasizing trust-building beyond mere informed consent. The discussion addresses how to handle emotions during tough news, the value of scenario planning for informed patient decisions, and the necessity of transparent discourse regarding surgical risks. It's all about empowering patients!

Anne C. Chiang, an associate professor of medical oncology at Yale University, shares her expertise on small cell lung cancer (SCLC). She discusses the alarming prevalence tied to smoking and symptoms that can lead to misdiagnosis. Chiang highlights recent advancements, including immunotherapy from the Adriatic trial, which shows promise for limited-stage SCLC. Additionally, she emphasizes the vital role of palliative care and clinical trials, advocating for tailored treatments that improve outcomes for patients facing this challenging disease.

Nerra Dahl, a renowned professor at Mayo Clinic and director of the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation Center of Excellence, dives into the complexities of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). She discusses the genetic underpinnings of the disease and its impact on kidney function, emphasizing the importance of genetic testing for effective diagnosis. The conversation also highlights innovative treatments like Tolvaptan, the significance of monitoring intracranial aneurysms, and promising advances in kidney transplantation outcomes for ADPKD patients.

In this discussion, Elias J. Jabbour, a Professor of Medicine at MD Anderson Cancer Center and expert on chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), dives into the intricacies of this disease affecting millions. He highlights the pivotal role of the Philadelphia chromosome in diagnosis and the life-saving impact of tyrosine kinase inhibitors like imatinib. Jabbour also addresses the challenges of medication compliance, therapy resistance, and the evolving criteria for stem cell transplants, painting a comprehensive picture of modern CML management.