Articles tagged with Pediatrics
Childhood glaucoma is a rare condition often associated with significant visual loss. A study found an incidence of 2.29 per 100,000 residents younger than 20 years, with acquired glaucoma being the most common type.
A new study found that stress can aggravate the impact of prior streptococcal infection on symptoms of Tourette syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The researchers identified a link between psychosocial stress and worsening tic and obsessive-compulsive symptom severity in children with Tourette syndrome and OCD.
A new study by the University of Michigan Health System shows that 20% of Americans born between 1966-1985 were obese by age 20-29, a significant increase from previous generations. This trend is expected to worsen racial disparities in health, with black Americans already experiencing a higher burden of obesity-related diseases.
Dr. Sean McLean, an assistant professor of pediatric surgery at UNC, has been awarded a four-year grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to study pulmonary hypertension using a mouse model for congenital diaphragmatic hernia. The award aims to increase faculty diversity in academic medicine.
Researchers found that 16% of 6-month-olds were obese, highlighting the need for early detection and prevention strategies. Exclusive breastfeeding and adequate fiber intake can help prevent obesity in infants.
Children removed from orphanages and placed in foster care experience gains in growth and intelligence, catching up with non-institutionalized peers on many measures. Caregiving environments play a significant role in this catch-up growth, with sensitivity and positive regard being key predictors.
A study published in the Journal of Gastroenterology found that the current ALT threshold value for detecting liver disease in children is unknown, leading to incorrect interpretations. Researchers developed sex-specific thresholds using data from the National Health and Examination Survey, which improved detection rates by 70-80%.
A recent report highlights significant disparities in healthcare for minority children in the US, including higher mortality rates, more prevalent diseases like HIV/AIDS and asthma, and limited access to quality care. The study calls for improved data collection methods and increased funding to address these inequities.
A study of UK schoolchildren found that Black Africans, Indians, and Bangladeshis have a similar or lower prevalence of asthma than White children. A family history of asthma and psychological well-being were consistent correlates for asthma regardless of ethnicity.
A new model of the human body is being developed to improve radiation treatment accuracy for cancer patients, especially children. The research found that children have a greater percentage of total mineral bone in direct contact with sensitive bone marrow than do adults, leading to higher radiation doses and increased cancer risk.
A novel 'medical home' program at UCLA significantly reduced emergency room visits among participating families, with a 55% decrease in ER visits. The program's effectiveness was attributed to continuous, accessible outpatient care and coordinated care coordination.
The Bench to Bassinet Program aims to translate scientific discoveries into usable treatments for congenital heart disease. Researchers will study genetic data and heart development to provide a comprehensive picture of healthy and abnormal hearts, ultimately informing clinical practice.
A new study published in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine found that children with chronic illnesses are more likely to develop severe H1N1 infections. With careful management, pediatric ICUs can meet increased demands during a pandemic. Researchers also modeled PICU surge capacity and found it should be adequate with adaptable planning.
New studies reveal a 140% increase in ATV-related spine injuries among US children between 1997 and 2006. Additionally, multi-rider ATVs are associated with higher incidence of open fractures and primary limb amputations compared to single-rider vehicles.
A national study suggests that pediatric residents and all physicians need individualized learning plans to keep pace with emerging health-care advances. The study found that tracking progress toward achieving learning goals is crucial, and faculty mentors can help residents develop effective plans.
A study found a region of chromosome 5 associated with eosinophilic esophagitis, a severe and painful type of food allergy that can cause weight loss, vomiting, and swallowing difficulties. The likely culprit is the gene TSLP, which has higher activity levels in children with EoE compared to healthy subjects.
Jennifer C. Hirsch, M.D., M.S., receives the Nina Starr Braunwald award for her work developing an assessment tool for infants' sensory and motor skills following congenital heart defects surgery. The award supports research and education for women in cardiac surgery.
A study by pediatric researchers found that children can experience recurrent strokes, with 13% of patients experiencing a recurrence within a month of their first stroke. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent further recurrences and promote recovery.
A Michigan State University study found a significant association between frequent cow exposure and human Group B streptococcus infection. The research suggests that zoonotic transmission may be occurring, with increased frequency of cattle exposure linked to human colonization.
A study conducted in six countries showed that training birth attendants in newborn care and resuscitation significantly increases a baby's survival rate. The intervention resulted in a 30% reduction in stillbirths and a 15% decrease in perinatal mortality, potentially saving hundreds of thousands of lives worldwide each year.
A new study published in Clinical Pediatrics suggests that childhood obesity often starts before two years of age, with some children gaining weight as early as three months old. The research recommends starting healthy eating habits and weight loss programs for children as early as infancy to prevent obesity-related complications.
A new study introduces the CATCH rule to guide physicians in determining whether a child with minor head trauma should receive a CT scan. The 7-simple findings from history and physical exam have the potential to standardize CT scans and reduce unnecessary radiation exposure, while also minimizing healthcare costs.
A new study has identified a specific gene product that may be responsible for the proliferation of adenotonsillar tissue in children with OSA. The study suggests that blocking the phosphatase protein PSPH could be a potential therapeutic target for reversing adenotonsillar enlargement and treating pediatric OSA.
A targeted preventive approach using Tamiflu and strict hand hygiene measures contained the outbreak of H1N1 influenza among 171 campers. The plan, developed by Dr. David Kimberlin and implemented in 2009, successfully prevented illness in all campers, including those at high risk.
A UK-based randomized controlled trial evaluates the MEND Program's effectiveness in preventing and treating pediatric obesity. The study demonstrates improvements in weight loss, BMI, waist circumference, self-esteem, physical activity levels, and general health among participants.
A new study provides clear pediatric PET dose guidelines, allowing clinicians to calculate the optimal radiotracer dose based on a child's weight. The findings suggest that patients can receive high-quality images with reduced scan time or lower doses, minimizing radiation exposure for young children.
A recent US study reveals that pediatric patients with rheumatic diseases have significantly lower mortality rates compared to previous studies. The Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance estimates that 300,000 children in the US suffer from some form of arthritis or rheumatic disease.
University of Florida researchers are developing a gene therapy to treat Pompe disease, which causes severe muscle weakness and breathing difficulties. The treatment involves delivering a corrective gene directly to the diaphragm using an adeno-associated virus, with clinical trials expected to begin soon.
A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that pediatricians often fail to follow up with families after referring children with suspected developmental delays for further testing and treatment. This can lead to delayed treatment and poorer outcomes for these children. The study highlights the need for improved referral systems an...
Researchers have identified five cases of toilet-seat dermatitis, a skin condition that can be caused by wooden toilet seats or exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals. The study recommends using paper toilet seat covers, replacing wooden seats with plastic ones, and avoiding harsh cleaners to prevent the condition.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that proper daily maintenance of central lines was key in preventing infections in children. The study showed a 43% drop in bloodstream infections from catheters by following simple rules for catheter care, including regular cleaning and hand washing.
A study of 434 patients found that complications from cochlear implants were highly correlated with trauma and inner ear malformations. The majority (65.1%) of delayed complications occurred after an average delay of 2.2 years, while major complications included severe infections and misplacement of the electrode.
A new study suggests that friendships can act as substitutes for food, particularly among adolescents. By pairing friends with peers, the study found that participants were less likely to engage in sedentary behaviors and more likely to choose active leisure activities.
The updated childhood vaccine schedule recommends the H1N1 influenza vaccine for children over 6 months and prioritizes combination vaccines. The revised schedule also includes recommendations for human papillomavirus (HPV) and meningococcal vaccines, aiming to protect against cervical cancer and meningococcal disease.
A study of critically ill H1N1 children found that serious complications developed quickly and unpredictably, with great variations from patient to patient. The virus behaves variably in different patients, highlighting the need for rapid screening tests and preemptive antiviral medications.
The publication of consensus recommendations in Pediatrics marks an important step towards advancing physician awareness of unique challenges in the medical management of children with autism. The guidelines provide guidance on how current general pediatric standards of care can be adapted for children with ASD, highlighting the need f...
The Pediatric Cardiac Genomics Consortium aims to identify genetic and epigenetic causes of congenital heart disease. The collaboration seeks to discover preventive strategies, targets for treatment, and better diagnostic information for families.
A study by Brigham Young University professor Renea Beckstrand and graduate student Nicole Rawle identified the three biggest obstacles to supporting families of dying children: language barriers, parental reluctance to withdraw life-support technologies, and mixed signals from different specialties on the medical team. The researchers...
The Goudge Inquiry's analysis of pediatric forensic pathology highlights the importance of carefully controlling the use of expert witnesses. The report emphasizes the need for medical experts to provide fair, objective, and impartial testimony, regardless of their relationship with the court or party involved.
A recent study by Brandeis and Rice University sociologists found that families frequently raise the topic of prayer when a child is seriously ill or dying. Pediatricians respond to these requests in different ways, including participating in prayers, accommodating them, reframing prayers for realism, or referring patients to religious...
According to a new study, half of urban teenage girls may acquire at least one common sexually transmitted infection (STI) within two years of becoming sexually active. The researchers found that repeated infections with chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis were very common among the participants.
A recent study found that pediatricians and family physicians have limited knowledge of childhood food allergies, leading to potential misdiagnoses and ineffective treatment. Despite this, most physicians report providing care for children with food allergy and are proficient in identifying common allergens.
The US pediatric oral health report, published in Academic Pediatrics, emphasizes the need to improve outcomes and address disparities. The report presents key findings on the state of pediatric oral health in the US, including the prevalence of dental caries and access to care.
A new newborn exam, the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale (NNNS), has been developed to identify infants at risk of developmental problems. The exam identified five distinct neurobehavioral profiles, with poor performance linked to behavior problems, school readiness issues, and low IQ.
A new study found that only a small percentage of providers prescribe hydroxyurea to eligible children with sickle cell disease due to concerns about future reproductive issues and low patient compliance. Despite its efficacy in preventing pain, many providers prescribe the drug for other complications without sufficient evidence.
A new study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that late recurrence is a risk for some pediatric cancers, particularly Ewing sarcomas and tumors of the central nervous system. The study analyzed data from over 12,000 childhood cancer survivors and found varying rates of late recurrence depending on the type...
A new study by UT Southwestern researchers found that parent mentors can significantly reduce asthma-related complications in minority children. The intervention program, which provided specialized training to caregivers, resulted in fewer wheezing episodes, asthma attacks, and emergency room visits among participating families.
A study published in Pediatrics found that educational home visits can significantly improve asthma control in children, leading to fewer hospitalizations and reduced symptoms. The research suggests that providing regular asthma education and support can go a long way in managing the condition.
A recent study published in the November issue of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy found that six percent of asymptomatic women underwent endoscopic screening and were diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus. Additionally, researchers demonstrated the accuracy of EUS-FNA in diagnosing pancreatic endocrine tumors, predicting five-year survival rat...
A study published in American Journal of Roentgenology found that chest ultrasound is a viable alternative to chest CT for evaluating pediatric patients with complicated pneumonia. The study suggests using chest radiography and ultrasound as initial evaluations, with CT reserved for cases where ultrasound is technically difficult or di...
Researchers at the University of Washington successfully used exome sequencing to identify a previously unknown gene responsible for Miller syndrome, a mendelian disorder. This breakthrough study demonstrates the efficiency and potential of this strategy in discovering the genetic basis of rare diseases, which could lead to new therapies.
Researchers found significant improvement in heart performance during treatment with sildenafil, suggesting potential benefits for exercise performance and quality of life. The study involved 28 children and young adults who received either placebo or sildenafil for 6 weeks, with improved heart function observed after switching to the ...
The NIH has awarded $8.5 million to support research on pharmaceuticals for children, with a focus on determining outcome measures to facilitate future studies. The grants will support studies in pediatric cardiology, neonatology, and pediatric neurology, aiming to improve the quality of pediatric research.
A recent study found that pediatric onset multiple sclerosis is more aggressive and causes more brain lesions than MS diagnosed in adulthood. However, patients with pediatric-onset MS develop disabilities at a slower pace than those with adult-onset MS, with an average delay of almost 10 years.
A survey of 30 pediatric physicians reveals differing views on the role of religion and spirituality in medicine, with some seeing it as a barrier to care and others as a bridge. The study found that pediatric oncologists are more likely to view patients' religious backgrounds as relevant to their treatment.
A study in Italy found that pediatricians over-prescribe antibiotics due to perceived parental expectations, particularly if parents expect a prescription for respiratory tract infections. The main factors associated with actual practices were discharge from the child's ear and parental expectation of a prescription.
Pediatric physicians tend to pragmatically consider religion and spirituality in family decision-making and end-of-life situations, but view them as barriers when they conflict with medical decisions. The study found that pediatricians often welcome patients' religious beliefs when medicine has failed or all options are exhausted.
Reducing daily steroid doses for children with status asthmaticus shows no effect on hospital stay length. High-dose inhaled albuterol is linked to metabolic acidosis risk. Tonsil size may predict obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) in kids
A multicenter study led by the University of Pittsburgh found that inhaled nitric oxide therapy did not significantly improve long-term outcomes for premature newborns with respiratory failure. Despite early promising results, the study revealed no significant improvement in survival rates or neurological function at one year of age.
According to a study, nearly half of all American children will reside in households receiving food stamps between ages 1 and 20. The analysis found that poverty and food insecurity are detrimental to a child's health, with the receipt of food stamps serving as a marker of both conditions.