News

Journal Club

Teen bariatric procedures * Rocky Mountain spotted fever* Health promotion kiosks

A 14 year old presents with an unusual state of health, episode of hypertension and altered mental status. A very unusual case as the patient presented with a hypertensive emergency from a small bowel obstruction that resulted from a volvulus of the midgut.

The recent explosion of energy drinks into the consumer market begs the question: how do these highly marketed and easily accessible beverages affect the health of young consumers?

Updates

Children & obesity * Oral health * Medicaid access * Adolescent bariatric surger * Art contest

Physicians in the News

Here's a listing of recent physician appointments around the United States.

Be aware in April

These Web sites offer a wealth of information on this month's national health observances.

After analyzing preliminary data from 2006, indicating that fluoroquinolone-resistant gonorrhea is now widespread across the nation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is no longer recommending that the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics be used to treat gonorrhea in the US.

Random urine drug test results carry a substantial risk for error, according to results of a study done by the Children's Hospital Boston Center for Adolescent Substance Abuse.

The FDA has cleared a viral meningitis test, the Xpert EV, for marketing. Results of the test can be obtained in two and one half hour, giving practitioners an opportunity to quickly diagnose the illness, and to distinguish it from the more dangerous bacterial meningitis.

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) is looking for 8- to 19-year olds to conduct validation research of a new data collection method. An alternative method for obtaining information on sexual maturation is under development at the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics. The method uses audio computer-assisted self-interview (ACASI) technology. The module was developed in .net 2.0 and runs on Microsoft Windows as a stand-alone version or in an integrated mode with a server.

Meeting the latest recommendations for yearly flu immunization is difficult, as pediatricians are learning, but surely children with asthma ought to be at the top of the list for immunization.

Product recall

McNeil-PPC Inc, a division of Johnson & Johnson, is recalling all Glacier Mint and Bubble Blast flavors of a child-friendly Listerine mouthwash, called Agent Cool Blue. The mouthwash colors the plaque on teeth, allowing for easier brushing.

New Products

Potty Monkey trainer * WeeSpecs Supreme phototherapy mask * Ultra Young Soles orthotics

The occurrence of seizures in children can generate tremendous levels of anxiety for children, parents, and pediatricians alike. Allaying these concerns and providing the right treatment rests on a systematic approach.

Eye on Washington

Recent federal news on SCHIP funding * National Children's Study * ACIP vaccine recommendations * FDA guidelines for fresh produce, and more * MedPAC recommendations on reimbursement