The Cribsiders

Join us in this episode with expert guest Dr. Mahvish Rahim (the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore) as we dive into the rapidly evolving world of curative and transformative therapies for sickle cell disease! From breaking down the science behind stem cell transplant and gene therapy to understanding how to choose the right candidates and counsel families, Dr. Rahim brings clarity to this exciting new era in SCD care.

Dr. Ann Marshburn, a pediatric hospitalist and former NASA pilot, shares her unique insights on in-flight medical emergencies. She discusses how rare these situations are and the common conditions encountered, like syncope and respiratory issues. Ann highlights the importance of available resources onboard, such as AEDs, and what physicians should carry for support. She also explains the ethical implications of aiding passengers and how captains decide on diversions. Plus, tips for staying cool under pressure make this a riveting flight of conversation!

Dr. Elena Galindo, an adolescent medicine physician and expert in sexual and reproductive health, shares her insights on creating safe, inclusive spaces for discussing sexual health with teens. She emphasizes the importance of routine STI screening and highlights disparities in care. Elena breaks down various testing methods, discusses the significance of confidential communication, and offers practical advice on counseling adolescents. She also addresses the role of enthusiastic consent and urges normalizing conversations about sexual health.

Kaleeb Graham, a pediatric gastroenterologist and associate program director at Cincinnati Children’s, discusses the intricacies of functional abdominal pain in children. He shares insights on the gut-brain connection and how anxiety can amplify symptoms. Kaleeb emphasizes a 'function first' approach in treatment while exploring the roles of diet, psychological support, and neuromodulation therapies. He also highlights the importance of minimal diagnostic testing and compassionate communication with families about this often-misunderstood condition.

In this episode, Dr. Vincent Mukkada (Cincinnati) joins us to demystify eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Together, we explore how to take a good history in children in whom EoE is suspected, treatment strategies, and innovations for ongoing monitoring. Whether you’re managing the initial diagnosis or ongoing care for these patients, the conversation won’t get stuck thanks to an episode full of helpful information for you!

In this chat, Dr. Tracy A. Wilkinson, an assistant professor of pediatrics specializing in adolescent reproductive health, dives into empowering general pediatricians to discuss contraception with young patients. She emphasizes the importance of starting these conversations early and uncovering what adolescents already know. Dr. Wilkinson addresses common myths, reproductive coercion, and tailors counseling based on patient priorities. She also highlights the importance of confidentiality and the need to include all genders in reproductive health discussions.

Dive into the world of dermatology as the hosts tackle tinea with practical culture tips and antifungal choices. Uncover the nuances of atopic dermatitis, from defining criteria to practical care, including emollients and advanced treatments. Learn the ins and outs of managing acne, including classifications by age and first-line topical treatments. The discussion also highlights the importance of accessibility in acne care and the complexities around isotretinoin. It's a rapid-fire review of essential dermatological pearls!

This week we take a closer look at Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) -  from screening and staging to treatment and long-term outcomes. Join us as we shine some light on this sight-saving topic with insights from Dr. Nimesh Patel - Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School and the director of Pediatric Vitreoretinal Surgery at Boston Children’s Hospital. You won’t believe your eyes at how much there is to see in the world of ROP care!

Kim Schamel, medical director of the Newborn Assessment Nursery at Washington University/St. Louis Children’s Hospital, walks us through newborn nursery 101! She gives pointers for the newborn physical exam, counseling strategies for safe sleep, gives us a framework for evaluating neonatal weight loss, and so much more. From the golden hour to the discharge talk and everything in between, she reminds us that when it comes to healthy babies, just feed them, love them, and don’t shake them! 

Dr. Emmanuel Alalade, a pediatric anesthesiologist at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, dives deep into the world of pediatric pain management. He shares strategies for assessing pain in children, discussing observational cues and effective pain scales. Dr. Alalade emphasizes the importance of multimodal approaches, combining medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, while also outlining non-pharmacologic techniques such as distraction and VR. He addresses the racial disparities in pain treatment and advocates for informed, compassionate care for young patients.