This Week in Pediatrics
Contemporary Pediatrics – Clinical News & Pediatrician Practice Tips
Adverse childhood experiences may affect pediatric skin disease risk and outcomes, but researchers say evidence remains limited. ... Scholar Rock says apitegromab's SMA BLA stays on track for its September 30, 2026, PDUFA date after dropping ...
What Does a 10-Year Retrospective Analysis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in Hospitalized Children in the US Tell Us?
M pneumoniae cannot be treated by the same antibiotics that are used to treat typical community-acquired pneumonia, added Bassett, who presented the findings at Pediatric Hospital Medicine (PHM) 2026. “Therefore, high suspicion for the infection and early testing is important to ...
Telemedicine Remains Relevant in Pediatric Care
“[The] findings highlight the continued importance of TM [telemedicine] as a tool within primary care and the value of investigating the impact of TM use on health outcomes, including access to care,” the authors of the study wrote. The study was led by Alexander G. Fiks, MD, MSC...
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
Teething causes high fevers and diarrhea
What the evidence shows: While teething may cause mild symptoms (gum irritation, drooling, slight temperature elevation), it does not cause high fever (>102°F/38.9°C) or diarrhea. These symptoms should prompt evaluation for other causes. Attributing significant illness to teething may delay diagnosis of serious conditions.
Sugar makes children hyperactive
What the evidence shows: Multiple double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have found no significant effect of sugar on behavior or cognitive performance in children, even in those reportedly 'sensitive' to sugar. The perceived hyperactivity is often due to the context (parties, holidays) or parental expectations. However, limiting added sugars remains important for dental health and nutrition.
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.
Behaviors
Physical Activity and Academic Achievement: School-Based Intervention Study
This cluster RCT examined whether increasing physical activity during the school day improved academic outcomes in 3,500 elementary students. Schools were randomized to add 30 minutes of daily activity or continue standard curriculum.
Key findings: (1) Intervention students showed 15% improvement in reading scores; (2) Math scores improved 8%; (3) On-task behavior increased and disruptive behavior decreased. Benefits were greatest for students with ADHD symptoms.
Advocate for physical activity in schools—it enhances rather than detracts from learning. Counsel families on the importance of daily active play for cognitive development, not just physical health.
Genetics
CRISPR Gene Editing for Sickle Cell Disease: Long-Term Follow-Up
Long-term data from CRISPR-edited sickle cell patients shows durable remission of vaso-occlusive crises in 95% of treated patients at 4-year follow-up. The one-time treatment has transformed the disease trajectory for participants.
Key findings: (1) No vaso-occlusive crises in 95% of patients; (2) Hemoglobin levels maintained in normal range; (3) No off-target editing effects detected. Access and affordability remain challenges.
Curative therapy for sickle cell disease is now reality, though access barriers remain. Stay informed about treatment centers and insurance coverage in your area. Early referral for evaluation is appropriate.