Safely Transitioning Patients in Nephrology
We describe the inherent challenges associated with the process and review the available literature and resources that may support the healthcare team in achieving successful and safe transition.Recent FindingsSafely guiding patients and families through the transition from pediatric to adult care is an important responsibility of the pediatric healthcare team. Growing evidence shows that lack of transition readiness increases morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease and reduces allograft survival in transplanted AYA. Multidisciplinary efforts from multiple pediatric groups have developed evidence-ba...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - January 20, 2024 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Understanding Pediatric Dysphagia: a Multidisciplinary Approach
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis comprehensive review explores pediatric dysphagia, a complex condition affecting children ’s ability to swallow. The review discusses the prevalence, etiology, and assessment methods for diagnosing dysphagia, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in its management.Recent FindingsDysphagia affects many children across different patient populations. The review discusses the advances in diagnostic tools, including high-resolution esophageal and pharyngeal manometry, endoluminal functional lumen imaging probes, and interdisciplinary aerodigestive programs. These developments...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - December 13, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Environmental Inequities and Pediatric Asthma Disparities
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review provides updates on the topic of social inequities, indoor pollutant exposure, and asthma disparities; we provide an updated summary of behavior change and indoor air-quality interventions.Recent FindingsAsthma disproportionately affects Black children and families with limited economic resources, potentially due to higher rates of substandard housing and resulting indoor exposures. The indoor environment contains both well-described allergens and pollutants and newer consumer chemicals of lesser-known significance. Maintaining good indoor air-quality remains a core recommendation in as...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - November 29, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Eosinophilic Esophagitis, Then and Now: A Review
AbstractPurpose of ReviewIn this review, we highlight new advances in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and progress in understanding of its pathophysiology which has led to these advances.Recent FindingsThe new pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment options have also focused on improving adherence to the treatment. It has made it possible to treat some more resistant pediatric patients with EoE.SummaryEoE is the result of esophageal dysfunction secondary to inflammatory/immune response of esophagus to certain antigens present in food or environment, which may be known or unk...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - November 28, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

The Aetiology and Global Impact of Paediatric Sepsis
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review provides an overview of paediatric sepsis, focusing on sepsis definitions in children, global aetiology of sepsis, application of biomarkers in clinical practice, and challenges of global application of current evidence.Recent FindingsClinical definitions for paediatric sepsis vary, and a validated measurement is lacking. Aetiology varies by age and geography, with differences in healthcare, vaccination, and pathogens. Biomarkers show promise but have limited translation to clinical practice, especially in children.SummaryPaediatric sepsis has a significant global impact, with high mort...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - November 27, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Novel Diagnostics for Pediatric Heart Transplant Rejection
AbstractPurpose of ReviewDiagnosis of pediatric heart transplant rejection has historically relied on endomyocardial biopsy and clinical assessment. This review will describe novel techniques that may aid and refine diagnosis of rejection.Recent FindingsDonor-derived cell-free DNA and gene expression profiling assays provide diagnostics of rejection that are less invasive than surveillance endomyocardial biopsy. Imaging with echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, and cardiac computed tomography are common for pediatric cardiology patients, and their role in detecting and monitoring rejection of heart transplants con...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - November 24, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Human Trafficking of Adolescents: A Caribbean Perspective
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe Caribbean has been listed among the regions of concern for its volume of human trafficking and is geographically suited for human trafficking as source, transit, and destination sites. This review aims to summarize the available information on human trafficking in the Caribbean with the purpose of increasing awareness of the issue and identifying gaps in the literature to inform the way forward.Recent FindingsHuman trafficking in the Caribbean continues to be influenced by the push and pull economic factors of poverty, poor educational attainment, political instability, and the promise of bette...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - November 20, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Ensuring the Success of Pediatric Cardiology Patients Through the Lifespan: Translating Current Transition Medicine Research into Programmatic Implementation
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis paper will introduce transition medicine implementation ideas to adapt and incorporate into every major pediatric cardiology center. By examining existing research that demonstrates effective strategies aimed at improving the transition process for young adults with chronic illness, we hope to engage major stakeholders in developing and sustaining transition of care clinics (TOCC).Recent FindingsMany barriers exist to implementing a successful transition of care program for pediatric chronic disease populations. The divergent goals of research findings and the nuances of institutional funding ...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - November 10, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

The Role of Pediatricians in Recognizing Postpartum Depression and/or Psychosis
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe purpose of this paper is to describe prominent features of several postpartum mood disorders — postpartum blues, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis and emphasize the vital and unique position pediatricians are in to detect and manage postpartum mental illness.Recent FindingsFor each of these three conditions, we present data regarding their incidence and prevalence, identify risk factors and prognosis, and explore the role pediatricians can play in assessment and treatment. Although definitive studies are still needed, maternal mental health screenings performed in conjunction wi...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - November 9, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Sexual Exploitation Related to Online Risky Behaviour in Children and AYAs in India
AbstractPurposeTo highlight the gravity and universality of risky online behaviour of children, adolescents and young adults (AYAs). To understand how such behaviour increases the probability of sexual exploitation.Recent findingsUse of digital media is increasing exponentially, but adults are ill equipped to understand, adapt and cope. Unless parents, children and AYAs are empowered about cybersafety, this online sexual exploitation is very difficult to prevent.SummarySome protective legislations are in place, both worldwide and in India, but more work is needed. There is an urgent need to do advocacy, awareness and capac...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - November 3, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Review of the Literature on the Intersection of LGBTQ Youth and CSEC: More Than a Monolith
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review article delves into the critical issue of commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC), focusing on the intersection of CSEC with LGBTQ youth. It aims to shed light on the unique vulnerabilities faced by sexual minorities (SM) and transgender/gender diverse youth (TGD), challenging the tendency to homogenize the experiences of all sexual and gender minorities.Recent FindingsThe review reveals that LGBTQ youth, especially TGD individuals, are disproportionately affected by CSEC and have unique risk factors, including the causes homelessness, polyvictimization based on sexual and gen...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - October 12, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

The Care of Transgender and Gender Diverse Adolescents with Eating Disorders
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTransgender and gender diverse (TGD) adolescents are at increased risk of disordered eating behaviors and the development of eating disorders. Here, we review our current understanding of eating disorders in this population including risk factors, screening, medical management, and treatment.Recent FindingsGrowing literature indicates that TGD adolescents are at increased risk of eating disorders (EDs) due to a variety of factors, including chronic stress related to being part of a marginalized community. ED screening and psychoeducation provide an opportunity for early intervention in this populat...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - October 11, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Acute Liver Failure in Neonates and Early Infancy: an Approach to Diagnosis and Management
AbstractPurpose of ReviewAcute liver failure in neonates and early infancy is an uncommon condition with varied etiology and high mortality rates. We attempt to review the recent updates on the various causes, diagnostic approach, and specific management of acute liver failure in this unique population.Recent FindingsBetter diagnostic tools including genetic/molecular techniques have expanded our understanding of etiopathogenesis of neonatal/early infantile liver failure. Multidisciplinary team-led care and rapid arrival to diagnosis can lead to better outcomes.SummaryNeonatal/early infantile acute liver failure is a devas...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - October 10, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

New Hormonal Contraceptives and New Roles for Established Hormonal Contraceptives
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review presents features of the newest hormonal contraceptive options, as well as the most recent updates to the function of established contraceptive options.Recent FindingsNew contraception has been developed over the last several years, the features of which have provided new functionality for users. Some established forms of contraception have demonstrated increased functionality for users.SummaryThe new contraceptives improve access, effectiveness, privacy, and side effect profile. The vaginal system provides a user-operated/non-procedural year-long method. The transdermal system releases...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - September 25, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research

Social Media and Adolescent Mental Health
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review delves into the intricate relationship between social media and adolescent mental health, scrutinizing underlying psychological mechanisms and proposing directions for future inquiry and interventions.Recent FindingsThe interaction between social media use and adolescent mental health is complex. Many studies focus on the negative outcomes, such as increased depression, anxiety, and decreased life satisfaction, with contributing factors such as social comparison, fear of missing out, cyberbullying, and impaired sleep. However, the potential for positive influences through enhanced socia...
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - September 23, 2023 Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research