Core EM - Emergency Medicine Podcast

We discuss migraines with one of the authorities in the field. Hosts: Benjamin Friedman, MD of Montefiore Brian Gilberti, MD https://media.blubrry.com/coreem/content.blubrry.com/coreem/Migraines.mp3 Download Leave a Comment Tags: Neurology Show Notes Initial Approach to Diagnosing Migraines: Differentiating between primary headaches (migraine, tension-type, cluster) and secondary causes (e.g., subarachnoid hemorrhage). The importance of patient history and reevaluation after initial treatment. Recognizing the unique presentation of cluster headaches and their management implications. Effective Acute Migraine Treatments: First-line treatments including anti-dopaminergic medications like metoclopramide (Reglan) and prochlorperazine (Compazine), and parenteral NSAIDs like ketorolac (Toradol). The limited role of triptans in the ED due to side effects and less efficacy compared to anti-dopaminergics. The use of nerve blocks (greater occipital nerve block and sphenopalatine ganglion block) as effective treatments without systemic side effects. Treatments to Avoid or Use with Caution: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): Studies show it does not prevent akathisia from anti-dopaminergics nor improve migraine outcomes. IV Fluids: Routine use is not supported unless the patient shows signs of dehydration. Magnesium: Conflicting evidence with some studies showing no benefit or even harm. Managing Refractory Migraines: Second-line treatments including additional doses of metoclopramide combined with NSAIDs or dihydroergotamine (DHE). Considering opioids as a last resort when other treatments fail.

We discuss a new class of medications, Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors, and their side effects. Hosts: Avir Mitra, MD Brian Gilberti, MD https://media.blubrry.com/coreem/content.blubrry.com/coreem/Immune_Checkpoint_Inhibitors.mp3 Download Leave a Comment Tags: Oncology Show Notes Overview of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs) ICIs are a relatively new class of oncologic drugs that have revolutionized cancer treatment. Unlike chemotherapy, ICIs help the immune system develop memory against cancer cells and adapt as the cancer mutates. Since their release in 2011, ICIs have expanded to 83 indications for 17 different cancers, with approximately 230,000 patients using them. Mechanism of Action Cancer cells can evade the immune system by binding to T cell receptors that downregulate the immune response. ICIs work by blocking these receptors or ligands, preventing the downregulation and allowing T cells to proliferate and attack cancer cells. Common ICIs Risks and Toxicities of ICIs ICIs can lead to autoimmune attacks on healthy cells due to immune system upregulation.

We discuss a case of ataxia in children and how to approach the evaluation of these pts. Hosts: Ellen Duncan, MD, PhD Brian Gilberti, MD https://media.blubrry.com/coreem/content.blubrry.com/coreem/Ataxia_in_Children.mp3 Download Leave a Comment Tags: Neurology, Pediatrics Show Notes Introduction The episode focuses on ataxia in children, which can range from self-limiting to life-threatening conditions. Pediatric emergency medicine specialist shares insights on the topic. The Case An 18-month-old boy presented with ataxia, unable to keep his head up, sit, or stand, and began vomiting. Previously healthy except for recurrent otitis media and viral-induced wheezing. The decision to take the child to the emergency department (ED) was based on acute symptoms. Differential Diagnosis Common causes include acute cerebellar ataxia, drug ingestion, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and basilar migraine. Less common causes include cerebellitis, encephalitis, brain tumors, and labyrinthitis. Importance of History and Physical Examination A detailed history and physical exam are essential in diagnosing ataxia. Key factors include time course, recent infections, signs of increased intracranial pressure, and toxic exposures. Look for signs such as bradycardia, hypertension, vomiting, and overall appearance. Diagnostic Workup Initial tests include point-of-care glucose and neuroimaging for concerns about trauma or increased intracranial pressure. MRI is preferred for posterior fossa abnormalities,

We discuss the approach to diagnosing and managing hypernatremia in the emergency department. Hosts: Abigail Olinde, MD Brian Gilberti, MD https://media.blubrry.com/coreem/content.blubrry.com/coreem/Hypernatremia.mp3 Download Leave a Comment Tags: Electorlye Show Notes Episode Overview: Introduction to Hypernatremia Definition and basic concepts Clinical presentation and risk factors Diagnosis and management strategies Special considerations and potential complications Definition and Pathophysiology: Hypernatremia is defined as a serum sodium level over 145 mEq/L. It can be acute or chronic, with chronic cases being more common. Symptoms range from nausea and vomiting to altered mental status and coma. Causes of Hypernatremia based on urine studies: Urine Osmolality > 700 mosmol/kg Causes: Extrarenal Water Losses: Dehydration due to sweating, fever, or respiratory losses Unreplaced GI Losses: Vomiting, diarrhea Unreplaced Insensible Losses: Burns, extensive skin diseases Renal Water Losses with Intact AVP Response: Diuretic phase of acute kidney injury Recovery phase of acute tubular necrosis Postobstructive diuresis Urine Osmolality 300-600 mosmol/kg Causes: Osmotic Diuresis: High glucose (diabetes mellitus), mannitol, high urea Partial AVP Deficiency: Incomplete central diabetes insipidus Partial AVP Resistance: Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus Urine Osmolality Causes: Complete AVP Deficiency: Central diabetes insipidus ...