Primary care providers play an invaluable role in the diagnosis of diabetes in children. The hallmark clinical symptoms of diabetes include polyuria and polydipsia. Nocturia and fatigue are also common. If the hyperglycemia has been long-standing, weight loss occurs at presentation. Glycosuria and ketonuria also may be present at the time of diagnosis. About a…
Over the past 20 years, the number of psychotropic medications children receive has increased dramatically, with large increases in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications and antipsychotics. Psychotropic medications can level the biologic playing field for children by treating established mental health disorders and controlling disabling symptoms such as hyperarousal and impulsivity. But they do not change…
The patient A 12-year-old boy born with double-inlet left ventricle (DILV), mitral stenosis, left-sided superior vena cava coronary sinus and pulmonary stenosis: The patient had been through surgical palliation as a baby, leaving him with Fontan circulation. The challenge Over the past decade we’ve learned that single-ventricle Fontan circulation has significant impacts on the heart…
The patient A 14-year-old female presented with worsening headache and deterioration of vision especially in the left eye. MRI detected a large hypothalamic enhancing tumor causing mass effect on the optic nerves. The pituitary gland appeared to be pushed inferiorly. The challenge Because of tumor location and potential complications with tumor resection, the multidisciplinary team…
When children have headaches or experience migraine, it is usually not necessary to make a referral to a neurologist right away. Michael K. Sowell, M.D. and Elizabeth S. Doll, M.D., pediatric neurologists at Norton Children’s Neuroscience Institute, affiliated with the UofL School of Medicine, share tips for how to begin treating a patient before making…
Wilson E. Reinke, M.D. Pediatrics Lilly Giang, APRN Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Children with scoliosis or other conditions that require frequent imaging and the accompanying radiation risks now have a low-dose imaging option. The EOS Imaging full-body imaging system delivers 50% to 85% less radiation than traditional X-ray and 95% less radiation than CT. Radiation from EOS technology is equivalent to a week’s worth of natural radiation….
When should a pediatrician refer an asthma patient to a pulmonologist? Primary care providers can help manage treatment for a child’s mild asthma, but when the patient’s symptoms exceed routine care or simple maintenance, it’s time to make a referral. “If a patient is taking their medications and avoiding triggers, and their asthma still is…
Eating disorders are increasing among males, making up about a quarter of anorexia nervosa patients and running a greater risk of death, said Brittany K. Badal, M.D., an adolescent medicine physician with Norton Children’s Medical Group – Novak Center. Later diagnosis in males typically contributes to morbidity, Dr. Badal said during a recent pediatric grand…
Cadmium, a natural element used for rechargeable batteries and other industrial applications, can induce a novel type of testicular cell death in mice after low-dose exposure, according to a groundbreaking study. Cadmium is known to bioaccumulate and is linked to many health disorders, including male infertility. The study discovered low-dose cadmium exposure induces damage in…
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) flu vaccine recommendations for the 2022-23 season will mirror the previous season, and pediatricians should begin to plan their flu immunization campaigns. “Kids experience really substantial morbidity from flu, including hospitalization and death,” said Kristina K. Bryant, M.D., physician with Norton Children’s Infectious Diseases, affiliated with the UofL School…
Primary dysmenorrhea, or painful periods, is defined as occurring just before or during menstruation in the absence of other diseases. Usual onset of primary dysmenorrhea is most likely to present later in the menstrual years with the onset of ovulatory cycles. Individuals begin to experience crampy, lower abdominal pain each period. Cramping often starts one…