This Week in Pediatrics
Contemporary Pediatrics – Clinical News & Pediatrician Practice Tips
The FDA granted priority review to obinutuzumab for relapsing/steroid-dependent pediatric INS, based on phase 3 INShore remission data ... An adolescent medicine expert says social media skincare routines may increase skin irritation and atopic ...
Observation, individualized care emphasized in guideline on central precocious puberty
A new clinical practice guideline emphasized observation and providing individualized care for children with central precocious puberty. In June, the Endocrine Society published its first clinical practice guideline on central precocious puberty.
Cyclosporiasis in 2026: A clinical update for pediatricians | Contemporary Pediatrics
An active, multistate cyclosporiasis ... data, the agency received reports of 1,645 domestically acquired cyclosporiasis cases among people with illness onset from May 1 through July 13, 2026....
Research of the Day
Early Peanut Introduction: 8-Year Outcomes from the LEAP Trial Extension
Extended follow-up of the landmark LEAP trial confirms sustained peanut allergy protection 8 years after early introduction, even when children stopped regular peanut consumption. The protective effect persists regardless of continued consumption.
Key findings: (1) 74% reduction in peanut allergy maintained at 8 years; (2) Protection sustained even after 12-month period of avoiding peanuts; (3) Early introduction (4-6 months) most effective for high-risk infants.
Reinforce early peanut introduction guidance, especially for infants with eczema or egg allergy. Recommend 2g peanut protein, 3 times weekly starting at 4-6 months in appropriate form.
Popular Beliefs
The flu shot can give you the flu
What the evidence shows: Flu vaccines contain inactivated virus or viral proteins that cannot cause influenza infection. Some people experience mild side effects (sore arm, low-grade fever) that mimic illness. It takes 2 weeks for protection to develop, so some may get infected before the vaccine works.
Chocolate causes acne
What the evidence shows: The relationship between diet and acne is complex. Some studies suggest high-glycemic diets and dairy may worsen acne, but chocolate specifically has not been definitively proven to cause breakouts. Individual responses vary—advise patients to observe their own triggers.
Warm milk helps children sleep
What the evidence shows: While milk contains tryptophan (a sleep-promoting amino acid), the amount is modest. Any sleep benefit likely comes from the comforting ritual and warmth rather than pharmacologic effect. A consistent bedtime routine matters more than any single component.
Behaviors
Family Meal Frequency and Obesity Risk: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
This meta-analysis synthesized 45 studies examining the relationship between family meal frequency and childhood obesity. Children who shared regular family meals had significantly lower obesity risk and healthier eating patterns.
Key findings: (1) 3+ family meals/week associated with 12% lower overweight/obesity; (2) Higher fruit/vegetable intake and lower fast food consumption; (3) Protective effect independent of family structure or income.
Encourage family meals as part of healthy lifestyle counseling. Even a few shared meals per week make a difference. Focus on the ritual and connection, not just nutrition.
Genetics
Genetic Predictors of Peanut Allergy Persistence
Genome-wide association study identifies genetic variants associated with peanut allergy persistence versus resolution. Children with certain variants are more likely to outgrow their allergy, informing timing of oral food challenges.
Key findings: (1) 4 genetic variants strongly associated with persistence; (2) Genetic testing could reduce unnecessary avoidance and challenges; (3) Environmental factors remain important in allergy development.
Genetic testing may soon help predict which children will outgrow allergies. For now, continue regular reassessment with IgE testing and oral challenges as clinically indicated.