Two Onc Docs

This week features Dr. Pat Loehrer, a renowned expert in thymoma treatment, sharing his vast knowledge. He dives into advanced treatment strategies for thymoma and thymic carcinoma, emphasizing the importance of preoperative chemotherapy. Dr. Loehrer also discusses the significance of genomic testing for targeted therapies and shares valuable career advice for early-career oncologists. He reflects on the importance of mentorship and the evolving landscape of thymoma research, creating an enlightening session for aspiring medical professionals.

Dr. Pat Loehrer, a Distinguished Professor of Medicine and an expert in thymoma treatment, delves into localized thymoma and thymic carcinoma. He discusses the intriguing connection between thymomas and autoimmune disorders, especially myasthenia gravis. The talk covers the rarity of thymic tumors, survival rates, and the distinctive characteristics of various thymoma subtypes. Dr. Loehrer also highlights the importance of staging, surgical techniques, and the role of multidisciplinary teams in managing these unique cancers.

Dr. Jennifer Marks, a Thoracic Oncologist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, dives deep into metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. She highlights the rapidly evolving systemic therapy options, including traditional chemotherapy and cutting-edge immunotherapies. The discussion emphasizes the critical role of PD-L1 testing in treatment decisions and the impact of key mutations like EGFR and HER2 on targeted therapies. Listeners learn about the latest FDA approvals and strategies for managing treatment-related side effects, showcasing the dynamic landscape of lung cancer treatment.

Dr. Jennifer Marks, a thoracic oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard medical instructor, dives deep into localized non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). She discusses the latest on staging using the TNM classification and treatment strategies for both resectable and unresectable cases. Key highlights include the impact of the PACIFIC trial and innovative adjuvant chemotherapy approaches. Dr. Marks emphasizes the integration of molecular testing and multidisciplinary care to enhance patient outcomes, shedding light on evolving standards in oncology.

Dive into the fascinating world of hemoglobin electrophoresis, where various types of hemoglobin are separated with electric currents. Explore the nuances of disorders like thalassemia and sickle cell disease, including their diagnostic implications. Discover how alpha thalassemias affect test results and the challenges they pose for newborns. Learn about unique variants such as hemoglobin E and Lepore, and gain valuable study tips for hematology exams. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of hemoglobinopathies!

In honor of National Family Health History Month in November, we have a special guest. We share the story of an incredible colorectal cancer survivor and health advocate, Marisa Peters, who was a Broadway vocalist and a very healthy, active mom to 3 young boys, yet diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer at only 39 years old. 

Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky, a board-certified oncologist specializing in breast and gynecologic oncology, shares vital updates on metastatic breast cancer treatment. Dive into the latest systemic therapies for ER-positive cases, including endocrine therapy and CDK4-6 inhibitors. Discover new strategies for premenopausal women and the use of triplet therapy for PIK3CA mutations. Learn about advancements in HER2-positive patients with innovative drugs and the importance of molecular testing. Gain insights into managing toxicities and enhancing patient care.

Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky, a board-certified medical oncologist specializing in breast and gynecologic oncology, brings her expertise on localized breast cancer treatment. She discusses groundbreaking updates on radiation therapies and the nuances of ER/PR/HER2 receptor-based treatments. Topics include personalized chemotherapy approaches, the APT trial for HER2 positive cancer, and effective hormone treatments tailored to patient profiles. Dr. Teplinsky also delves into chemotherapy regimens suitable for pregnant patients, emphasizing individualized care strategies.

This podcast dives into the essentials of breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of screening and prevention. The hosts demystify risk factors, distinguish between ductal and lobular carcinoma in situ, and share the latest screening guidelines. They also discuss the Gale score for genetic risk assessments and the nuances of hormone therapies. Finally, advanced treatment strategies for invasive localized breast cancer are explored, shedding light on tailored therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes.

Discover effective study strategies for Hematology and Medical Oncology board exams, blending personal experiences with targeted approaches. Learn how to create personalized cheat sheets that cater to individual strengths, and explore essential texts like the NCCN guidelines. The discussion includes key recommendations for video resources and question banks, plus supplemental materials that enhance exam readiness. Gain insights into the importance of strategic planning and consistency, ensuring a balanced approach to studying and personal well-being.