Continuous Glucose Monitor Use and the Pregnancy Outcomes in Mothers with Type I, Type II, and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review

Kaori Morimoto1, Abigail Calkins1, Jacob Fletcher DO1, Anita Nelson MD1 PNWMSRJ. Published online November 2nd, 2021. Abstract: Background: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) in pregnant women is increasing in the US. Diabetes is associated with a higher risk of pregnancy complications such as fetal macrosomia and cesarean sections. Multiple studies have investigated the efficacy […]

Erythema nodosum associated with nivolumab therapy in a patient with metastatic melanoma

Joshua Bezecny1, Rajan Kulkarni, MD, PhD2, Matthew Hiram Taylor, MD 2, Elizabeth Berry, MD2 PNWMSRJ. Published online November 2nd, 2021. Abstract: Introduction and Objective: Erythema nodosum associated with nivolumab therapy is a rare immune-related adverse event. In four previously reported cases, patients had presented with multiple, painful subcutaneous nodules along the lower extremities following nivolumab

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The Benefits of Dietary Modification in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Case Report

Holly Ryan1, Chuck Chan1, Chaya Prasad MD, MBA1 PNWMSRJ. Published online November 2nd, 2021. Abstract: Introduction: Autoimmune diseases have been increasing in incidence in the Western world over the last few decades at a faster rate than expected through genetic variation alone. This is suggestive of a correlation between the worsening American diet and inflammatory

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The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of First Responders: A Review of the Lebanon Fire Department

Caroline Baber 1, Mandilin Hudson, DO1 PNWMSRJ. Published online November 2nd, 2021. Abstract: COVID-19 first was discovered in the United States in January 2020 and has since changed the way we live. From donning PPE to social distancing to virtual workplaces, we have all been affected by this pandemic. Those working on the front lines

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Consideration of Spontaneous Closure of Atrial Septal Defect by Thrombus in a Patient with Pulmonary Hypertension

Aaron Monga1, Jaspreet Thind1, Abdullah Naji1, Monica Chappidi1, Suraj P. Rasania12 PNWMSRJ. Published online November 2nd, 2021. Abstract: Introduction & Objective: Pulmonary hypertension is defined as elevated mean pulmonary arterial pressure >= 25 mmHg at rest. It is subdivided into 5 different groups, one of which is group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), an important

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Commentary on “Adipose Tissue is a Critical Regulator of Osteoarthritis”

Cory Kim1, Brian Johnstone Ph.D.2 PNWMSRJ. Published online April 15th, 2021. Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent disease characterized by the degeneration of joint articular cartilage. It is by far the most common form of arthritis. Obesity has been linked with an increased risk for OA. It was previously thought that this is due

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An Atypical Pain Presentation of Cholecystitis

Introduction: Complicated gallstone diseases like cholecystitis can arise as gallstones block portions of cystic duct systems. Typically, these patients present with severe, constant, several hour postprandial, right upper quadrant pain, accompanied by elevated liver enzymes, leukocytosis, gallbladder thickening and edema on imaging, and a positive Murphy’s sign.1-5 Objective: This patient’s presentation fell outside these parameters, yet still warranted consideration of cholecystitis as a possible cause for her abdominal and back pain. Case Presentation: 25-year-old Caucasian female, 2-months postpartum, presented to urgent care with a 1-week history of achy, bilateral, 7-8/10, mid-back pain following a banding, belt-like pattern, most severe posteriorly, only present at night, and waking her from sleep. Physical exam was unremarkable except for mild tenderness in the right upper quadrant, but Murphy’s sign was negative. Primary diagnosis was gastroesophageal reflux disease, with a differential diagnosis of biliary colic. Patient was referred to the emergency department for ultrasound and laboratory testing. Stones were noted on an otherwise typical gallbladder ultrasound. Complete blood count and comprehensive metabolic panel showed mildly elevated liver enzymes. Urinalysis had elevated erythrocytes/μL and leukocyte esterase. Patient was prescribed omeprazole, sent home, and instructed to monitor symptoms. She returned to the emergency department 2-hours later with 10/10 abdominal and back pain in a bilateral, banding pattern, equally painful anteriorly and posteriorly. She was given hydromorphone and sent for abdominal and pelvic computerized tomography with oral contrast, identifying an edematous gallbladder. Patient was admitted and scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy the next day. Postoperatively, patient’s symptoms were completely resolved and she has remained symptom-free. Conclusion: While cholecystitis pain normally presents with right upper quadrant pain possibly radiating towards the right shoulder, an atypical bilateral location and banding pattern is possible. Early detection and subsequent cholecystectomy can limit time patients suffer from complicated gallstone diseases. However, not all patients with back pain should receive a cholecystitis work up as this presentation is rare and could result in unnecessary testing.

Telehealth Applications on Continuity of Care, Quality of Care, and Patient Satisfaction in the United States

Background: In healthcare delivery, continuity of care is an important cornerstone in determining the quality of care provided to patients since it affects health outcomes, compliance to medication and recommendations, and provider trust. Telehealth will continue to play a role in the nation’s healthcare landscape as consumers increasingly value convenience of time, location, and the need to meet virtually in the context of a global COVID-19 pandemic. Purpose: This review highlights the effects of telehealth on patient satisfaction and healthcare quality while considering the implications on longitudinal, informational, and interpersonal continuities of care. Methods: A review was conducted utilizing peer-reviewed journal articles from databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Both quantitative and qualitative studies were included in analysis. Results: Telehealth increased continuity when administered by in-network providers who have a relationship with the patient. While medical guideline adherence and prescribing behaviors varied amongst physicians who used telehealth applications, patient satisfaction remained high if telehealth was administered through their healthcare home. Conclusion: Telehealth can serve populations experiencing barriers to medical care, particularly for regions with physician shortages and in populations with limited access to in-person visits. In order to best serve patients, telehealth must meet criteria for safety, effectiveness, patient-centeredness, timeliness, efficiency, and equity.

A Literature Review of Manual Medicine for the Conservative Management of Plantar Fasciitis

Anita Rao1, Saumil Mehta2 PNWMSRJ. Published online Oct 15th, 2020. Abstract A narrative literature review was conducted to ascertain the efficacy of manual manipulation for the treatment of plantar fasciitis (PF). PF is a common painful condition of the plantar foot. The current literature on the pathophysiology of PF is veering from inflammatory towards degenerative,

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