The Cribsiders

Join us in this episode with our expert guest the “platelet doctor” Dr. Beau Mitchell (The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore) to learn all about the complexities of diagnosing and managing ITP!  From learning how to evaluate bleeding symptoms to the latest therapies for chronic refractory ITP, Dr. Mitchell provides insight on how to tackle this relatively common hematologic condition. After this episode you will be cruising when you see bruising – because you will know exactly what to do!

Join us for a great discussion on congenital syphilis with Dr. Ryan Rochat! We’ll shine a light on the darkfield of congenital syphilis and unmask The Great Imitator. We dive into the rationale for screening for syphilis in pregnancy, the testing available, and how the heck to interpret the screening algorithm. We also explore the comprehensive evaluation and follow-up of affected infants.

Dive into hemophilia with three-peat guest Dr. Weyand, the Shematologist! In this episode, we break down the basics of hemophilia A and B, from inheritance and pathophysiology to the latest advancements in diagnosis and treatment. Factor in these practical tips for managing acute bleeding, counseling families, and navigating the complexities of prophylaxis—all while keeping kids safe and active. The pearls just kept flowing and flowing!

In this episode of The Cribsiders, we explore the world of Highly Sensitive Children with expert guest Dr. Caylin Riley, a pediatrician and newborn hospitalist. Dr. Riley breaks down what it means to be a highly sensitive child and offers practical strategies for supporting these kids at home and in clinical settings. We discuss how sensitivity can be a strength, how to recognize and respond to signs of overwhelm, and how to foster resilience. Tune in for a compassionate and insightful conversation that will leave you better equipped to care for the sensitive souls in your life.

Dr. Noé Romo, a pediatric hospitalist and expert in violence intervention, discusses the critical issue of firearm safety for children. He highlights the alarming rise in injuries post-COVID-19 and the need for compassionate, tailored screening in medical visits. Romo emphasizes the importance of safe storage practices and a multidisciplinary approach, involving community outreach workers and social services, to effectively mitigate risks. He also shares insights from his own career and the transformative power of community-based initiatives in promoting safety.

Brace yourself! This week, we’re learning about cerebral palsy from Dr. Matthew MacCarthy, who is both a pediatric physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) specialist at Prisma Health in South Carolina AND a person with cerebral palsy. We’re talking NICU, Botox, and puberty, so get ready to stretch your knowledge with a thoughtful approach to CP diagnosis and management.

Join us for part 2 of our informative discussion with Dr. David Vitale, a pediatric pancreatologist at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. In this episode, we dive deep into acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis, distinguishing the two, and exploring the causes, genetic predispositions, and available treatments. Whether you're a budding pancreatologist or a PCP, this episode offers valuable insights into managing and treating this challenging condition.

Do you develop acute belly pain when you think about pancreatitis? Grab your antiemetics and analgesics and stave off the belly pain for this inflammatory discussion! In this episode, we sit down with our expert pancreatologist, Dr. David Vitale, to discuss all things acute pediatric pancreatitis. He takes us through the causes, pathophysiology and treatment, as well as what the generalist should look out for. 

In this enlightening discussion, Rebecca MacDonell-Yilmaz, a pediatric palliative care expert, shares her insights on the vital differences between palliative care and hospice. She emphasizes the importance of nurturing communication about death with children, offering strategies for families navigating these tough conversations. The conversation dives into patient comfort, the emotional dynamics of caring for pediatric patients, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities in accessing services. Rebecca also highlights essential caregiving roles and personalizes care strategies, enhancing understanding in this sensitive field.

Grab a cafe au lait and settle in for a nerve-rackingly good conversation with Dr. Carlos Prada, Pediatric Genetics specialist at Northwestern University’s Lurie Children’s Hospital. Dr. Prada walks us through the most common presentations of NF1, the recently updated diagnostic criteria, and important follow-up screening exams and treatment options. It’s an episode so good, even your nerves will be on edge!