Charting Pediatrics

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in children and adolescents, but it can sometimes be easy to miss. From the toddler who drinks almost exclusively milk to the adolescent athlete struggling to keep up with their peers or the teen with heavy menstrual bleeding and persistent fatigue, these patients may present differently while sharing the same underlying diagnosis. 

In this episode, we explore iron deficiency anemia in pediatric patients, including why it remains so common, which children and adolescents may be at increased risk, and the clinical clues that can help pediatricians recognize iron deficiency before it becomes a missed opportunity. Joining us for this important conversation is Akhila Vadivelan, MD, a pediatric hematologist/oncologist at Children's Hospital Colorado and an assistant professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. 

Some highlights from this episode include:
Evaluation, diagnosis and management of iron deficiency anemia 
What this diagnosis means for different populations 
Clinical clues pediatricians should look out for 
When treatment makes sense 

For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.

Tics are common in childhood, but recognizing when they are part of typical development, and when they may indicate Tourette syndrome or another tic disorder, can be challenging for pediatricians. A child repeatedly blinks during a well visit. A parent mentions a new throat-clearing sound that has been happening for weeks. Soon comes the question pediatricians hear often: "Should I be worried?" 

In this episode, we take a closer look at tics and Tourette syndrome, helping pediatricians distinguish common childhood tics from situations that may warrant further evaluation. We'll explore the natural history of tic disorders, common co-occurring conditions, and practical strategies for counseling and supporting families. 

Joining us for this conversation is Chelsey Stillman, PA-C, a physician assistant at Children's Colorado and the creator and director of the Integrative Tic Clinic. She is also an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics. 

Some highlights from this episode include:
What tics are and how common they are in children 
The natural history and typical course of tic disorders 
The differences between transient tics, chronic tic disorders, and Tourette syndrome 
Common conditions that can co-occur with tic disorders 

For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.

When adults look back on school, they often remember more than lessons and worksheets. They remember recess — the playground, movement, friendships, laughter and freedom. Yet in many schools today, recess can be one of the most negotiable parts of the school day. It may be shortened, delayed or withheld in favor of academics, structure or behavior management. But research continues to show that recess is far more than a break. Regular opportunities for play and movement support children's physical health, mental well-being, social development, and ability to learn. Pediatricians are uniquely positioned to keep play, movement and recess part of the conversation about child health. 

We're joined by two experts from Children's Hospital Colorado: Amanda Lopez, a school health nurse, and Eve Kutchman, a prevention education and outreach manager. Together, they share insights into the role of recess in children's health and development and how pediatricians can advocate for making play a priority. 

Some highlights from this episode include:
The health benefits of recess that go beyond a "break" from learning
How movement and play support children's physical, emotional and social health
What children may lose when recess is shortened, delayed or withheld
How health care professionals can help keep recess visible in conversations about child health
This episode is underwritten by Ovintiv, proud philanthropic supporter of Charting Pediatrics and the Children's Hospital Colorado Foundation. Ovintiv recognizes that their responsibility begins in the communities where they live and work. They are committed to giving back and building safer and more resilient communities. Ovintiv's generous support has made a monumental difference for our patients and families, from enhancing health outcomes to reducing health disparities.

For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.

Some of the most serious diagnoses in pediatrics begin with common pediatric symptoms. A child comes in looking pale or with a febrile illness. They've been more tired than usual. Maybe they're bruising easily or complaining their legs hurt. Individually, none of these symptoms are unusual. Together, or with persistence, they can tell a different story. Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer, but it's earliest signs often resemble everyday illnesses.  

The episode introduces Ashley Rogers, MD, a pediatric oncologist at Children's Hospital Colorado and faculty member at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, as the newest host of Charting Pediatrics. As David Brumbaugh concludes his remarkable nine-year tenure as host, he passes the microphone to Dr. Rogers, ushering in the next chapter of the podcast. 

Dr. Rogers joins the conversation to share her expertise on childhood leukemia, including key considerations for diagnosis, treatment and the pediatrician's role in recognizing and managing these patients. This episode offers both valuable clinical insights and a warm welcome to a new voice who will continue bringing evidence-based pediatric education to listeners. 

Some highlights from this episode include:
Earliest signs of leukemia pediatricians can look out for 
How to distinguish between viral illnesses or leukemia 
Red flags that shouldn't be dismissed 
Role of the pediatrician after a leukemia diagnosis  

For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.

Tick bites used to be a seasonal nuisance, something you might mention briefly at a well visit in late spring. But that's no longer the reality. With emergency department visits for tick bites climbing to their highest levels in nearly a decade and tick populations expanding into new regions, pediatricians are now seeing the ripple effects of a changing environment in real time. In this episode, we break down what's driving this surge, how to approach tick bites in clinic, and what's new in our understanding of tick-borne illness — including important updates on alpha-gal syndrome that every clinician should have on their radar.  

In this episode, we are joined by tick expert, Justin Searns, MD. He specializes in pediatric infectious diseases and hospital medicine at Children's Hospital Colorado. He is also an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include:
Why tick bites are currently at an all-time high 
Best practices for tick removal and immediate post-removal care 
When tick-borne illnesses should be a concern for pediatricians 
Prevention strategies and geographical considerations

For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.