Recently, leucovorin and acetaminophen have been at the center of new discussions in pediatric medicine. Could leucovorin really help some children with autism? Does the latest evidence suggest acetaminophen has any impact on neurodevelopment? In today's episode, we'll break down what the science actually tells us, what remains uncertain and how pediatricians can confidently guide families through these complex topics. Joining us for this important discussion is Abigail Angulo, MD. She is a developmental-behavioral pediatrician at Children's Hospital Colorado. She is also an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: The science behind autism The role of Tylenol in pregnancy and newborn development What leucovorin is used for and when it should be prescribed How to navigate difficult conversations with families who expect certain outcomes For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
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35:38
Seizure or Something Else?
Not every episode that looks like a seizure is one, and for pediatricians, distinguishing the difference can be challenging. Few moments in the clinic can feel as urgent, or as uncertain, as evaluating spells. In this episode, we unravel the mysteries of seizures and their mimics to prevent misdiagnosis and avoid unnecessary intervention. This episode was recorded on the exhibit floor at the 2025 American Academy of Pediatrics Conference in Denver, Colorado. Joining us is Shavonne Massey, MD. She is a neurologist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: Differentiators between seizures and mimics What pediatricians can do when a child is experiencing a seizure Key factors they can look for during an exam Most common seizure mimics that present in children depending on age For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
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28:01
The State of Pediatric Research Funding
Behind every medical breakthrough for kids is usually a long history of research advances. Research is incremental, and new therapies exist, thanks to questions that are asked in science laboratories. Those investigators not only asked the hard questions but also found the funding to answer them. What happens when that funding starts to disappear? Research drives progress in pediatric medicine from vaccines to breakthrough treatments for rare diseases. That progress is currently at risk. Cuts and cancellations in key federal research programs, including CDC and NIH funding, threaten to stall discoveries and disproportionately impact pediatric investigators. In this episode, we dig into what's happening with child health research funding, why it matters for every pediatrician, and where the greatest opportunities for advocacy lie. For this episode, we are joined by two experts at the forefront of this conversation. Joe St. Geme, MD, is the Physician in Chief at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, as well as the President of the CHOP Practice Association. He is also a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. Zach Zaslow is the Vice President of Advocacy and Community Health at Children's Hospital Colorado. Some highlights from this episode include: The status of pediatric research funding How pediatric research directly impacts community pediatricians What current threats exist How providers can advocate for their patients and families For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
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29:13
Oral and Dental Trauma in Kids
From playground falls to sports injuries, oral trauma is part of growing up. But when a tooth gets chipped, knocked out or a lip is cut, it can be stressful for families and challenging for providers. In this episode, we take a closer look at pediatric dental and oral trauma from the primary care perspective. We are focusing on what to look for, when to act and how to guide families through those anxious first moments after an injury. This episode was recorded on the exhibit floor at the 2025 American Academy of Pediatrics Conference in Denver, Colorado. Joining us is Erica Brecher, DMD. She is a pediatric dentist with Duke Street Pediatric Dentistry and is on staff at Duke Children's Hospital. She is also an adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry. Some highlights from this episode include: Most common oral and dental traumas in kids How outcomes differ from baby teeth to permanent teeth What steps a pediatrician can take to save a tooth Why a strong partnership between the pediatric and dental home can improve outcomes To access the dental trauma guide mentioned in this episode, click here. To access the app "Tooth SOS" click here. For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
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26:36
Undescended Testis, Hernia and Hydrocele
Groin bulges, scrotal swelling, and nonpalpable testes are findings that often surface during routine well-child exams, and they can raise immediate questions for pediatricians and families alike. Is this normal? Will it resolve on its own? Or does it require surgical referral? In this episode, we take a closer look at three common genitourinary conditions in children: inguinal hernias, hydroceles, and undescended testes. We diagnose the details to help clarify the evaluation process, management strategies, and referral guidelines that every pediatrician should know. This episode was recorded on the exhibit floor at the 2025 American Academy of Pediatrics Conference in Denver, Colorado. Joining us is Eric Bortnick, MD. He is a Urologist and Assistant Professor of Urology at the Yale School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: How common these conditions are in the pediatric population When pediatricians can make a difference in these patients lives, versus when referral is really necessary. Key takeaways to performing a successful physical exam Creating a safe space for proper diagnosis For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
Now in our eighth season, Charting Pediatrics empowers medical professionals to care for kids with confidence. Brought to you by multidisciplinary experts at Children's Hospital Colorado, this weekly show shares the latest innovations, groundbreaking research and educational resources in pediatric medicine, while also shedding light on current challenges facing the pediatric healthcare community.
Whether you're seeking candid conversations about tough topics or evidence-based clinical information, Charting Pediatrics provides relevant insights you can trust. Pediatricians, primary care providers, medical students and anyone passionate about child health can learn from the stories on our show, which are told with humility, compassion, thoughtfulness and even humor.