Pediatrics Now: Cases Updates and Discussions for the Busy Pediatric Practitioner

link for CME credit coming soon! Host Holly Wayment speaks with Dr. Deena Sutter about rising H3N2 influenza activity, a partial vaccine mismatch, and what pediatricians and families should do as cases climb. They discuss vaccine effectiveness, when to test and treat, masking and infection control, and specific guidance to protect babies too young to be vaccinated. The episode also covers a local pertussis outbreak, the role of vaccination gaps, and practical communication tips for clinicians to counsel vaccine-hesitant parents.

https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10101339 Dr. Ian Mitchell joins Holly Wayment to review pectus excavatum and carinatum: how they present, typical ages of detection, and practical screening tips for pediatricians. The episode summarizes evaluation steps including when to order CT with Haller index, echocardiography, and pulmonary testing, and compares treatment options—bracing and vacuum bell therapy, Nuss and Ravitch procedures—plus timing (ideal repair ~14–15 years) and perioperative care. Listeners also hear about pain management advances (erector spinae blocks, cryoanalgesia), outcomes, psychosocial effects, adult considerations, and the Fresh Start program offering free reconstructive surgeries for eligible families.

Link for CME Credit  https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10101136 Goat Milk Formula: New U.S. Approval — What Pediatricians Need to Know In this episode of Pediatrics Now with Host Holly Wayment, Dr. Cynthia Blanco discusses the recent FDA approval of goat milk–based infant formula in the U.S., how it compares to cow’s milk formula, and what pediatricians should know about nutrient composition, allergy management, and clinical scenarios. She reviews evidence on tolerability, digestibility, and common misconceptions, emphasizes the importance of breastfeeding, and offers practical counseling strategies for families considering goat milk formula.

When Neurology & Psychiatry Overlap, More on Tics and Tourette's. Plus PANDAS/PANS Link for CME Credit Coming Soon! Dr. Sheldon Gross and host Holly Wayment,  talk about more about evaluation and management of tics and Tourette's syndrome, plus when psychiatry and neurology in general overlap. The episode also covers related conditions—PANDAS/PANS, autoimmune encephalitis, functional neurological disorders, and seizures—highlighting collaboration between specialties and offering reassurance about prognosis for most children.

Tics, Twitches and Tourette's: When to Worry and What to Do Link for CME Credit Coming Soon Host Holly Wayment talks with Dr. Sheldon Gross about how to tell tics from twitches, common causes and triggers (stress, stimulants, sleep), and simple first steps families and pediatricians can take to reduce symptoms without medication. They review Tourette’s criteria, behavioral approaches like CBIT, medication options (guanfacine, clonidine, antipsychotics, topiramate), red flags for seizures or other neurological causes, and the overlap between neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Link for CME credit coming soon! Dr. Avinash Boddapati joins Pediatrics Now and builds on the wonderful talk by Dr. Mario Fierro in part one, to explain more about what we know—and don’t—about the causes of autism, highlighting that autism is multifactorial and involves genetics, brain biology, and environmental influences. He covers early red flags, genetic risk and testing, maternal and prenatal factors, common misconceptions (including vaccines), and promising research directions like gene–environment interactions and epigenetics. Key takeaways for pediatric clinicians: counsel families without blame, prioritize early identification and intervention, and weigh risks and benefits when discussing exposures during pregnancy.

Link for CME Credit: https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10101120   Host Holly Wayment and the Department of Pediatrics bring us a recent grand rounds talk by Dr. Mario Fierro where he reviews how autism is defined under DSM‑5, explains core diagnostic areas (social/communication deficits and restricted/repetitive behaviors), and emphasizes age‑based interpretation and the spectrum of severity. He covers screening (M‑CHAT), standardized assessments (ADOS, CARS), common comorbidities and risk factors (genetics, prematurity, congenital conditions), and practical considerations for clinicians and families. He also discusses treatment options—speech/OT, ABA, FDA‑approved medications for symptoms—reviews alternative therapies and controversies (including leucovorin research and vaccine myths), and offers pragmatic advice on when to refer and focus on functional communication.

Drs. Ruby Patel and Rajdeep Pooni present Grand Rounds using a 12-year-old case to illustrate pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus and class IV lupus nephritis, covering presentation, biopsy findings, and pathology. The talk explains diagnostic criteria and typical lab features. They summarize current management including 2024 ACR guidance on induction therapies (steroids, mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide, and biologics), monitoring for complications and medication side effects, vaccination precautions for immunocompromised patients, and the pediatrician’s role in long-term coordination of care.

Link for CME Credit: https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10101115 Host and Executive Producer Holly Wayment interviews Jacklynn Ware , MPH, CHES about Project YES, a free anonymous online mental health program that’s back, redesigned and improved for 13–17-year-olds to offer short, teen-focused modules to boost mood, reframe negative thoughts, and provide safety resources. And, yes, that includes an adorable video of a porcupine chomping on a pumpkin. The episode explains who can benefit, how the program is youth-informed and evidence-based, and how it can be used immediately as a low-pressure, much needed resource.

Seizures in Kids — Practical Diagnosis, Treatments, and When to Refer https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10101013   Host Holly Wayment brings us this wonderful grand rounds talk for the general pediatrician by pediatric neurologist Dr. Natasha Varughese, where she reviews childhood epilepsy syndromes (ages ~3–15), covering self-limited epilepsies, focal and generalized epilepsies, and developmental epileptic encephalopathies. Key diagnostic tools include EEG, MRI, and genetic testing; prognosis varies widely by syndrome. The talk highlights practical management: appropriate antiseizure medications (and which to avoid), indications for ketogenic diet, when to consider surgery or neuromodulation (VNS, RNS), and warning signs for referral to neurology or epilepsy specialists.

Toxicology Pearls Link for CME Credit: https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10100932 Host Holly Wayment talks to the  Poison Center's Robert S. Miller about common pediatric toxic exposures — acetaminophen, ibuprofen, THC edibles, nicotine pouches (Zyn), and kratom — and offers practical advice for clinicians and parents. Learn why calling the Poison Center (1-800-222-1222) helps with case documentation, reassurance, disposition planning, and when to use antidotes like acetylcysteine. Emphasis on prevention (lockboxes, safe storage), recognizing occult acetaminophen ingestions, symptomatic management, and differences between children and adults.

Link for CME Credit https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10100931 Mosquitoes, Fleas & Outbreaks — Pediatric ID Updates with Dr. Deena Sutter Host Holly Wayment interviews pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. Deena Sutter chikungunya outbreak in China, flea‑borne typhus in South Texas, and a rise in hand‑foot‑and‑mouth cases. The episode covers transmission, clinical signs, prevention tips (mosquito control, repellents, pet flea prevention), travel vaccine guidance, and practical advice for pediatric practitioners on diagnosis and management.

Link for free credit: https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10100930 In this episode, Rachel Vandermeer, MD, reviews pain assessment and treatment for children with medical fragility, focusing on altered pain pathways, common pain sources, and the need for multimodal, individualized plans. Practical recommendations include careful opioid use, gabapentinoids, clonidine for dysautonomia, prevention strategies around procedures, bowel regimens, and close outpatient follow-up to manage chronic neuro-agitation safely.

Link for CME Credit: https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10100244 Pediatrics Now, hosted by Holly Wayment and the Department of Pediatrics, brings you this grand rounds talk by: Melissa Delbello, MD, MS is a Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics and Dr. Stanley and Mickey Kaplan Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine (UCCOM).   OVERVIEW: Bipolar Disorder in Youth: An Update on Diagnosis and Treatment   Dr. Dellbello delves into the complex topic of bipolar disorder in children. The presentation covers critical aspects of the disorder, including diagnostic criteria, neurobiological insights, and treatment strategies. Listeners will gain an understanding of the phenomenology of bipolar disorder, how to differentiate between manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes, and the significance of early intervention. The episode also explores the impact of bipolar disorder on children, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and the challenges posed by the DSM-5 criteria. Discussion highlights include the role of family history, the high rates of comorbidity with ADHD, and the specific challenges in treating pediatric patients. Treatment options are outlined, with a focus on FDA-approved medications for different phases of bipolar disorder and non-pharmacological interventions. The conversation extends to the adverse effects of antipsychotics and the use of metformin for weight management in children on medication. Throughout the episode, the critical importance of family involvement and therapy is emphasized, providing a holistic view of managing this complex condition in young patients.

Like for MOC Credit Coming Soon Welcome to another insightful episode of Grand Rounds, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics at UT Health San Antonio and University Health's Women's and Children's Hospital and host Holly Wayment. In today's episode, we delve into pediatric concussions with Dr. Mayur Patel, a seasoned neurologist with a specialty in brain injury medicine. Dr. Patel shares his expertise on the diagnosis and management of mild traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in children, often synonymous with concussions. He discusses the differentiation between mild, moderate, and severe TBIs, highlighting that children generally recover faster than adults. Dr. Patel emphasizes recognizing symptoms like persistent headaches, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairments, as well as the role pre-existing conditions play in recovery duration. Explore the emerging research on biomarkers for concussions and innovative approaches to treat symptoms, including the importance of sleep hygiene and targeted therapies like amitriptyline. This episode is a must-listen for understanding the complexities of pediatric concussion management in the outpatient setting. Plus, get insights into sports-related concussion and the evolving landscape of concussion assessment.

Link for CME Credit https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10100071 This enlightening episode of Pediatrics Now features an in-depth conversation with Dr. Karen Bluth, an associate professor emerita from the University of North Carolina and a pioneering author on self-compassion for teens. Host Holly Wayment explores with Dr. Bluth the transformative power of self-compassion in helping teens cope with anxiety, depression, and stress. Dr. Bluth shares her insights and decades of experience in the field, emphasizing the critical importance of teaching teens resilience and self-kindness. The discussion delves into the challenges faced by today's youth and practical strategies for clinicians and parents to support adolescents in becoming their own advocates for well-being. Additionally, the conversation covers the utility of Dr. Bluth's books and courses designed to instill mindfulness and self-compassion skills for teens facing everyday stressors and emotional struggles. Clinicians will gain valuable understanding of how cultivating self-compassion can lead to improved mental health and academic outcomes for teenagers. Tune in to discover how both teens and adults can benefit from embracing these principles to enhance their quality of life.

Link for CME Credit: https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10099822   Host Holly Wayment brings us this grand rounds talk episode where this professor delves into the transformative role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, with a special focus on pediatric care. Explore the latest advancements in AI algorithms and their significant impact on reducing treatment costs and enhancing patient diagnosis. Discover the pioneering projects by Matrix, including AI chatbots for trauma research and dynamic algorithms for real-time adaptability. Gain insights into how AI technology is being integrated into medical workflows, from predicting the spread of diseases like COVID-19 to addressing the complex challenges of multimodal data integration for comprehensive patient care. Uncover AI's potential in improving decision-making processes, ensuring data security, and personalizing patient communication. Join us as we discuss the exciting possibilities and ongoing challenges in deploying AI for healthcare, emphasizing the importance of human-AI collaboration in achieving reliable and fair outcomes. Whether you're a medical novice or an AI expert, this episode provides valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of medical technology.

Link for free CME Credit:  https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10099816 In this episode of Pediatrics Now, host and executive producer Holly Wayment welcomes back Dr. Ted Wu to explore the critical topic of sepsis in children. Dr. Wu, with 19 years of experience in pediatric critical care, discusses the intricacies of diagnosing and managing sepsis in neonates and infants, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and tailored treatment strategies. The episode delves into the latest research coming out of Cincinnati Children's Hospital, revealing groundbreaking techniques such as JEDI, which helps categorize sepsis patients based on genetic markers for more individualized care. Holly and Dr. Wu also touch upon real-life implications in pediatric practice, sharing essential warning signs of sepsis, particularly in viral seasons, and how general pediatricians can make critical interventions in the first hour of diagnosis. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of sepsis treatment, including the role of antibiotics, fluid management, and the complex decisions pediatric practitioners face in urgent care settings. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion that balances medical knowledge with practical, on-the-ground advice for those encountering this life-threatening condition.

Link for CME Credit Coming soon In this episode of "Pediatrics Now," host Holly Wayment returns with Dr. Ted Wu to discuss the critical issue of unintentional injuries in children, focusing on drowning prevention. Dr. Wu emphasizes the importance of assigning a designated observer for children playing in water during summer to prevent drowning accidents, sharing insights from his extensive experience in pediatric critical care. Listeners will also learn about advancements in treating post-cardiac arrest in children, exploring the therapeutic use of hypothermia to improve neurological outcomes and the ongoing research in targeted temperature management. Additionally, this episode highlights the significant impact pediatric practitioners have in preventing such tragedies by offering anticipatory guidance to families. Tune in for essential tips on keeping kids safe and how pediatric practitioners are playing a crucial role in that.

link for CME credit https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10098859 Join host Holly Wayment on "Pediatrics Now" as she delves into the latest COVID-19 vaccination recommendations for children with Dr. J.B. Cantey, a double-boarded expert in neonatology and infectious disease. Discover the importance of complete immunization using mRNA vaccines, the science behind crossover doses, and seasonal expectations for COVID and flu. In this insightful episode, Dr. Cantey addresses common parental concerns, emphasizing the necessity of childhood vaccines and the evolving landscape of COVID and flu risks. Practical advice and scientific recommendations make this episode a must-listen for pediatric practitioners navigating vaccine discussions with patients’ families.