Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) represents nearly 40% of all cancers affecting the adolescent and young adult (AYA) population. Although overall survival has improved, cure rates for AYAs lag behind younger leukemia patients. The primary care provider (PCP), including the college health provider, is a crucial member of the medical team for children and AYA cancer survivors. In the college setting, the PCP plays a key role in close monitoring for relapse and late effects. This case highlights the presentation of a college student to their university's health center for complaints later found to be due to relapsed leukemia. The PCP must distinguish the unique needs of AYA cancer survivors to provide early recognition and referral to treatment for concerns.
Pediatric firearm violence is the number one cause of death in all children and a threat that must be addressed. Applying a harm reduction framework to this growing crisis recognizes that firearms exist and incorporates evidence-based practice actionable strategies for pediatric-focused Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to follow to address this public health crisis. This harm reduction framework encompasses several strategies, including an understanding of the physical and mental health care impact that pediatric firearm violence has on survivors, as well as recognizing the inherent health inequities associated with it. This framework also includes strategies to implement firearm safety education at the community level, discusses key laws and policies that pediatric-focused APRNs can advocate for to effect change, and raises awareness of accessible resources and funding for pediatric-focused APRNs to utilize.
Pediatric cases of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD, formerly termed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are a troubling new outcome of the pediatric obesity epidemic. Advising patients and families with this condition is challenging considering the nutrition needed to sustain developmentally appropriate growth in youth. Describing risk factors, comorbidities, management, and referrals for MASLD could improve surveillance and outcomes for this condition. MASLD is commonly seen with other comorbidities such as dyslipidemia, obstructive sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, anxiety, and depression. Considerations of epigenetics, diabetes, and adverse childhood experiences will be explored as additional underlying contributors to MASLD. Screening patients for this condition in conjunction with other comorbidities is essential to preventing the progression to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis, as well as lowering the risk for hepatocellular carcinoma. This fraternal twin case report describes pertinent diagnostics, recommendations for referrals, follow-up consultations, and red flags for more advanced liver disease.