Treating the patient

Greetings, everyone.

Food allergies are always a source of concern in children. Because dairy is one of the most common allergies reported in pediatric health, this month our regular contributor, Rachael Zimlich, BSN, RN, covers assessing and mitigating this potential problem in children and adolescents.

On the COVID-19 front, we spoke with William J. Muller, MD, PhD, whose positions include scientific director of clinical and community trials at the Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago in Illinois. He shared with us news on vaccine research for potential new COVID-19 variants, as well as updates on vaccines being looked at for other infectious diseases—in particular, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 2 million children contract RSV each year¹; last year, pediatric health care providers reported off-season surges, so it is welcome news that a preventive measure may be on the horizon.

Continuing the topic of infectious/respiratory disease, Editorial Advisory Board member Rana F. Hamdy, MD, MPH, MSCE, shares what every pediatrician should know about antibiotic stewardship for common respiratory illnesses in the pediatric population.

Other don’t-miss articles in this month’s issue address atopic dermatitis and serious diaper rash in infants; offer a look at cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome; and describe the intriguing case of an infant girl whose right cheek had a warm, red, painful area that was firm to the touch. To learn the diagnosis, check out our Puzzler section.

As 19th-century Canadian physician William Osler said, “The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease.” I believe that doctors who chose pediatrics do this every day: Treat the patient in totality.

Please stay safe and well. As always, I welcome your suggestions, comments, and questions.

With warm regards,

Tina Q. Tan

Reference

1. Respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated December 18, 2020. Accessed March 1, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/research/us-surveillance.htm