Dr. Allen Cherer is a neonatal care expert with over 30 years of medical accomplishments to his name.

Tag: children

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Coronavirus and Pregnancy: What to Know

Historically, viral illnesses become more serious in the very young, the elderly and in individuals having a weakened immune system. Given that victims of all ages have become infected with the coronavirus, many are understandably concerned about the effect the illness may have on expectant mothers.

Pregnancy and Covid-19

The World Health Organization reports that in a study of 147 pregnant women, eight percent developed more severe forms of the illness. One percent required critical care.

A study of nine afflicted women who gave birth indicated that none of the infants tested positive for the virus. But, the women all became infected during the last trimester of pregnancy. It remains yet unknown how the virus might affect a fetus during the early months of development.

Another study involved 10 newborn infants who developed serious forms of the illness. According to a physician from the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, the amniotic fluid, breast milk, and cord blood were tested. But, all of the fluid was negative for Covid-19. So, physicians do not believe that the illness passes from the mother to the developing infant. Theories revolving how the babies became infected include that the women may not have undergone testing and found to be afflicted before delivery. The babies may have come in contact with their infected mothers shortly after birth.

An obstetrician affiliated with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises that pregnant women should undergo testing at their initial appointment and separated from patients who tested negative. Pregnant women are advised to use the same precautions recommended for the general public.

About Covid-19

After exposure, individuals may develop symptoms in two days to two weeks. The majority of afflicted individuals suffer symptoms that are equated with the common flu. The experience may include fever, generalized fatigue and upper respiratory symptoms. Others suffer muscle aches and diarrhea. The World Health Organization reports that the virus causes serious illness in one out of every six patients. More severe cases exhibit difficulty breathing and shortness of breath. Individuals experiencing more serious symptoms are advised to seek medical attention.

Scientists recently revealed that the virus has two strains, one of which is more aggressive than the other. Health care providers also report that it is possible for individuals to suffer a relapse, which is often more serious.

Transmission occurs through airborne droplets or coming in contact with infected animals, surfaces or fecal matter. 

 

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A Closer Look at Neonatal Alagille Syndrome

Roughly 1 out of 70,000 newborns is born with neonatal Alagille syndrome. This condition is often present at birth, though it can take several years for the symptoms to become present. Here are some important facts that parents need to know about neonatal Alagille syndrome.

What Is Neonatal Alagille Syndrome?

Neonatal Alagille Syndrome is a type of genetic disorder that children can inherit from their parents. People with neonatal Alagille syndrome have a mutated or missing copy of a gene labeled Jagged1 on chromosome 20. Problems with this gene are associated with a wide range of liver, heart, and eye problems. Due to a variety of skeletal abnormalities, people with neonatal Alagille syndrome tend to have a very characteristic appearance. Alagille syndrome is also referred to as Alagille-Watson syndrome, syndromic bile duct paucity, or arteriohepatic dysplasia.

What Are the Neonatal Alagille Syndrome Symptoms?

Not all people with neonatal Alagille syndrome have the same symptoms present. The condition can just cause minor issues like some changes to facial features, or it can cause severe heart and liver disease. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Deep-set eyes
  • Straight nose
  • Triangular face shape with pointed chin
  • Jaundice
  • Heart murmurs
  • Cardiac anomaly
  • Short height
  • Butterfly shaped vertebrae
  • Kidney abnormalities
  • Eye abnormalities

Parents should keep in mind that some symptoms, like kidney abnormalities, can take a while to notice. Signs that these organs are not functioning properly can include chronic itchiness, fatigue, pale skin, fluid retention, weakness, or abnormally pale feces.

How Is Neonatal Alagille Syndrome Treated?

Treatment for neonatal alagille syndrome typically relies on what symptoms the patient is presenting. Many children have mild enough Alagille syndrome that they just need to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of rest to help with issues like delayed puberty or failure to thrive. Certain medications can help with things like improving bile function, stabilizing kidney function, and helping the heart run properly. However, in more serious situations, surgery may be necessary. Surgeries can help to correct skeletal issues, replace malfunctioning kidneys and livers, or treat cardiac abnormalities.

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