Articles tagged with Pediatrics
A study led by York University found that pediatric neurosurgeons develop meaningful long-term relationships with their patients and families, caring deeply about them. However, these relational bonds also bring challenging emotions, particularly when communicating bad news or witnessing patients' suffering or death.
Research suggests that adolescents with strong future orientation and parental support are less likely to use e-cigarettes. The study found no link between social support or school connectedness and e-cigarette use.
Researchers identified effective strategies for improving referral systems and accessing pediatric mental health care for low-income families. A key finding is that a warm handoff between primary care physicians and mental health providers can build trust and lead to successful outcomes.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that heart problems in children hospitalized with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) mostly resolved within a few months. The study, which followed 45 patients, showed that most cardiac and immunologic abnormalities returned to normal within weeks after hospital discharge.
A national study found that ED visits for self-harm were nearly 40% higher in rural areas compared to urban settings. Youth from rural areas presenting to the ED for suicidal ideation or self-harm were also more likely to need to be transferred to another hospital due to insufficient mental health resources.
This special issue of the Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine explores the challenges of healthcare disparity and limitations of access in cerebral palsy care. Experts provide practical insights and recommendations to optimize enablement, functioning, and participation for all patients with CP.
Researchers found that general internal medicine and family medicine clinicians spent an average of two hours actively using the EHR each day, while pediatricians spent around one hour and a half. The study suggests improvements in messaging and placing orders could reduce burnout among primary care clinicians.
A study found that male children with Crohn's disease experience worse growth due to factors like infliximab use and poor growth at symptom onset. In contrast, female patients tend to grow better regardless of disease severity or medication interventions.
A new national study found that children in the United States with greater screen time usage at ages 9-10 are more likely to gain weight one year later. Each additional hour spent on screen time is associated with a higher body mass index (BMI) one year later.
A new observational study found that Black and Latino children were significantly affected by COVID-linked multi-system inflammatory syndrome, with cardiac complications more common in critically ill patients. The study also identified distinct cytokine signatures and viral sequencing patterns, shedding light on the disease's demograph...
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that parents of children with the most complex medical conditions are more likely to report poor or fair mental health and struggle to find community help. The study recommends that healthcare systems provide support resources and prioritize mental health for these families.
A new study from Stanford University School of Medicine found that hospitalizations to treat pediatric gun injuries are expensive, with a total of about $109 million spent each year. The cost of hospitalizations rose over time, with more than half paid by Medicaid and uninsured patients accounting for 11% of all hospitalizations.
A study by Stanford University found that pediatric firearm injuries in the US result in a median cost of $12,984 per patient under 18 years old. The authors analyzed data from the national Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids' Inpatient Database to identify factors contributing to variation in hospital costs.
Researchers found that virtual reality games reduced pain scores in pediatric burn patients, with those playing actively reporting less pain than those who watched or received standard care. The use of smartphone-based VR games could provide an effective and easy-to-use pain relief method for dressing changes at home.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine congratulates Dr. Omonigho Bubu and three others on their 2021 Trainee Investigator Awards for outstanding research presentations at SLEEP 2021. Their studies focus on sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, and its association with Alzheimer's disease.
A Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center study found that a combination of two early reading programs improved kindergarten readiness by 15.4 percentage points over three years. The Reach Out and Read/Imagination Library program boosted preliteracy skills, improving school success.
Researchers used standardized reporting of clinical data to determine the most effective methods for controlling seizures in pediatric epilepsy patients. The study found that using telemedicine had no impact on seizure frequencies and that certain patient demographics were more likely to experience worsening seizures.
A new study at Children's Hospital Los Angeles aims to identify biomarkers of early-life stress using precision medicine. The goal is to improve early screening for adverse childhood experiences, which can increase a child's risk for developmental delays and health challenges later in life.
A predictive model has been developed to identify pediatric patients at risk of developing blood clots or venous thromboembolisms. The model includes 11 risk factors and has been validated on over 44,000 separate admissions. In a trial called CLOT, the model is being used to inform personalized prevention plans for high-risk patients.
A study published in Spine Journal reveals that most pediatric spinal fractures occur in motor vehicle accidents where seatbelts are not used. The majority of these injuries (63%) occur in teenagers aged 15-17, who are at highest risk for MVA-related spinal fractures. Wearing a seatbelt significantly reduces the risk of death and spina...
A study at Hospital for Special Surgery found that older age, female sex, and higher comorbidities are associated with persistent opioid use in pediatric patients. The research aims to inform clinicians about risk factors for opioid dependence in this vulnerable population.
The study evaluates the validity of diagnostic criteria for anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis in children, revealing age-dependent symptom patterns. The sensitivity and specificity of the criteria were found to be high, with notable differences in presentation between pediatric and adult patients.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that surgically placing tympanostomy tubes in young children does not reduce recurrent ear infections compared to oral antibiotics. The trial also showed no increased bacterial resistance among children treated with antibiotics.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that child-targeted TV ads for fast-food meals often overemphasize premiums like toys and games, relative to the actual food being sold. This marketing practice is deceptive and violates industry guidelines aimed at preventing childhood obesity.
Researchers found that pediatricians are more likely to refer toddlers for evaluation if parents independently express concerns, leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment. The Get SET Early program, a simple screening tool, has been linked to improved outcomes for children with ASD.
A new study by Children's Hospital Colorado found that lumacaftor/ivacaftor is safe and well-tolerated in children aged 2-5 with cystic fibrosis for up to 120 weeks. The treatment has also been shown to improve pancreatic function, reduce pulmonary exacerbations, and increase lung clearance.
A recent study has identified a genetic cause of a rare neurological disorder, ataxia, linked to mutations in the GEMIN5 protein. The discovery could lead to the development of diagnostic tests and treatments for affected individuals.
A consensus definition clarifies the characteristics of postbiotics, a category of non-living microorganisms with potential health benefits. The definition distinguishes postbiotics from probiotics and outlines their composition and application.
A hot topic symposium session will discuss a multipronged approach to addressing childhood adversity and promoting resilience. The effect of adverse childhood experiences on health outcomes is well recognized among pediatric practitioners.
The intersection of child poverty with race, immigrant status, and environmental threats is a critical issue that affects the health and development of vulnerable populations. Experts discuss the impact of systemic inequalities and environmental toxins on children's well-being.
The Pediatric Academic Societies Meeting predicts major child health legislative and policy changes over the next four years. The session will focus on five key areas, including health insurance coverage, pediatric drug development, and healthcare disparities/poverty, with experts estimating their impact on vulnerable populations.
The Pediatric Academic Societies meeting discussed prenatal environmental contaminants and childhood disease, highlighting epigenetic mechanisms associated with transgenerational disease. Three generational animal models demonstrated that fetal exposure to pesticides, dioxins, and other toxins leads to multigenerational diseases.
The Pediatric Policy Council explored the role of public health research in iterative policymaking to reduce gun violence in America. Gun violence has made headlines routinely, affecting young people and their families, and impacting local communities through daily occurrences.
The expert panel developed recommendations for mother's milk, donor human milk, and protein intake in very low birth weight infants. The existing literature is limited, and further investigation is needed to determine the optimal composition of preterm infant nutrition.
Researchers describe a rare case of atrial flutter followed by supraventricular tachycardia in a newborn with Turner syndrome. The study highlights the need for early and precise investigation of cardiovascular rhythm disorders in infants and children with Turner syndrome.
A study found that social factors like household income, language, and insurance did not impact families' acceptance of telehealth for their children's cardiac care during the pandemic. The study suggests telehealth is a feasible option for families, with higher acceptance rates among patients with certain diagnoses or Hispanic ethnicity.
A new wearable sensor can quantify itch by measuring scratching motions, providing a crucial tool for diagnosing and treating atopic dermatitis. The device's accuracy has been validated in pediatric patients, making it an exciting development for managing the condition.
A new study finds that non-invasive cell-free DNA tests can detect early rejection in heart transplant patients with high sensitivity and specificity. The assay is clinically viable, reducing the need for routine surveillance biopsies.
A national study found that only half of children with cardiomyopathy have undergone genetic screening, despite critical benefits for treatment and potentially curing the disease. Genetic screening can provide lifesaving information to families and prioritize children for a lifesaving cardiac transplant.
The Pediatric Academic Societies 2021 Virtual Meeting will showcase the latest clinical and scientific advances in pediatrics. The conference features a full scientific program with over 60 specialties presenting, as well as opportunities for networking and collaboration.
A recent study found that only 16% of male teenagers received the HPV vaccine, highlighting a significant gap in vaccination rates. The vaccine is essential for preventing oropharyngeal cancer, which affects 80% of male patients diagnosed with this condition.
A study by University of Illinois Chicago pediatric dentist Dr. Flavia Lamberghini tested asymptomatic pediatric dental patients and found a 2.3% SARS-CoV-2 positivity rate. The study suggests that PCR testing for COVID-19 in asymptomatic patients adds value to screening questionnaires.
A retrospective review found non-contrast pituitary MRI has a high concordance rate with original reports, excepting cases requiring contrast for definitive characterization. The study suggests saving time and costs in imaging pediatric pathologies.
A new visio-vestibular examination (VVE) has been found to enhance concussion diagnosis and management in young athletes. The VVE involves brief eye movement and balance tests identifying deficits in brain function involving the visual and vestibular systems.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that child vaccination rates declined significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, with measles vaccination coverage remaining substantially reduced in many age groups. The decline was more severe and persistent in older children, highlighting concerns about vaccine-preventable diseases.
A refined screening tool called TEN-4-FACESp can improve earlier recognition of child abuse in young children with bruising. The tool reliably signals high risk for abuse when bruising appears on specific body regions.
Researchers developed guidelines to promote vaccines on social media, analyzing a grassroots campaign and finding that 78.9% of tweets were anti-vaccine despite the event's intention. The team recommends using personal narratives, partnerships, and inclusivity to create effective pro-vaccination campaigns.
A recent observational study found that demographic and clinical characteristics are significantly associated with severe COVID-19 illness among US pediatric patients hospitalized with the virus. The study analyzed data from over 1,100 children and adolescents to identify risk factors for severe disease.
Rates of prolonged pediatric mental health ED visits increased over a decade, from 16% to nearly 25%, with Latinx children facing longer wait times. The study emphasizes the need for policy solutions to address provider shortages and expand coverage for mental health services.
A systematic review of literature found that only 17% of quality improvement articles in PICUs met high standards, highlighting a need for better reporting practices. The study suggests that bringing the KAIZEN philosophy to kid healthcare can improve the timely delivery of medical care.
Researchers found that patients with public health insurance, a history of Child Protective Services involvement, and an unscheduled hospitalization during pediatric care were at higher risk for end-stage renal disease and death. Childhood-onset lupus patients face significant challenges as they transition to adult healthcare.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center developed a new framework to understand how a child's brain is wired to learn to read. The 'eco-bio-developmental' model identifies risk factors for reading difficulties in infancy, emphasizing the importance of early screening and intervention.
The FDA has approved supplements to biological license applications for Octaplas and fibryga, strengthening Octapharma USA's pediatric critical care product portfolio. The new labels provide results from post-marketing studies evaluating the products' efficacy, safety, and tolerability in newborns through age 20. Fibryga's indication i...
A national survey of parents found that only half of children under 8 years old used recommended child car seats or booster seats in ride-share vehicles. Parents reported lower rates of child car seat use in ride-share compared to their usual travel method, highlighting the need for education and enforcement
A new pediatric heart transplant procedure has been shown to be at least as effective as the traditional approach, with similar survival rates and fewer infections. The method, pioneered by Canadian doctors, has enabled twice as many organs to be available for type O infants born with heart defects.
Children's Hospital Colorado and STAQ Pharma developed pre-filled sterile injectables for pediatric patients, addressing drug shortages and medical waste. The partnership optimizes patient care by providing individualized medication concentrations and doses.
Researchers created growing heart valves using tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, which showed reduced calcification and improved blood flow function. The valves could prevent repeated surgery in children born with congenital heart defects and be stored for at least six months.
Scientists developed a tri-tube heart valve replacement that can regenerate and grow over time, addressing the need for long-term valve replacements in children with congenital heart disorders. The new design showed improved growth dynamics and reduced calcification compared to clinically used bioprosthetic valves.
The Crazy 8 Initiative aims to tackle major obstacles in pediatric oncology through collaborative research and innovative approaches. Grants will fund studies using cutting-edge technologies, such as targeted degradation and molecular glues, to develop new treatments for aggressive cancers.
The Medical University of South Carolina has enrolled children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) in a trial of remestemcel-L, a novel cellular therapy. The treatment showed significant improvement within 24 hours for two patients, offering hope for better management of the rare but life-threatening condition.