UTHSC PA Program Podcast

Kristopher Maday, PA-C, DFAAPA

This is a FREE podcast for PA students.....by PA students from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center PA Program. It is designed to help anyone quickly review topics from the PANCE, End of Rotation Exams, and End of Curriculum Exams.

  1. 22 HR AGO

    Gastrointestinal - Intussusception

    In this episode, we review intussusception, a common pediatric abdominal emergency most often seen in children 6–36 months old. We break down the pathophysiology of telescoping bowel leading to venous congestion, ischemia, and potential perforation, along with the classic presentation of intermittent severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and the late finding of currant jelly stools. The discussion highlights key diagnostic tools such as ultrasound with the "target sign," and emphasizes evidence-based management with air or contrast enema reduction. References 1) Bushardt RL, Colomb-Lippa DM, Klinger AM, Reed H. The JAAPA QRS Review for PAs: Study Plan and Guide for PANCE and PANRE. 1st ed. LWW; 2021. ISBN: 9781975143817. 2) McCollough M, Sharieff GQ. Abdominal surgical emergencies in infants and young children. Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2003 Nov;21(4):909-35. doi: 10.1016/s0733-8627(03)00090-7. PMID: 14708813. 3) Mandeville K, Chien M, Willyerd FA, Mandell G, Hostetler MA, Bulloch B. Intussusception: clinical presentations and imaging characteristics. Pediatr Emerg Care. 2012 Sep;28(9):842-4. doi: 10.1097/PEC.0b013e318267a75e. PMID: 22929138.

    4 min

  2. 22 HR AGO

    Gastrointestinal - Portal Hypertension

    In this episode, we break down portal hypertension with a clear, clinically focused approach. We review the hemodynamic basis of elevated portal pressure, the development of portosystemic collateral circulation, and the classic signs such as splenomegaly, ascites, and varices. The discussion highlights diagnostic strategies, including Doppler ultrasound and endoscopic screening, and emphasizes evidence-based management to prevent variceal bleeding and treat complications. References 1) Bushardt RL, Colomb-Lippa DM, Klinger AM, Reed H. The JAAPA QRS Review for PAs: Study Plan and Guide for PANCE and PANRE. 1st ed. LWW; 2021. ISBN: 9781975143817. 2) García-Pagán JC, Gracia-Sancho J, Bosch J. Functional aspects on the pathophysiology of portal hypertension in cirrhosis. J Hepatol. 2012 Aug;57(2):458-61. doi: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.03.007. Epub 2012 Apr 12. PMID: 22504334. 3) Berzigotti A, Seijo S, Reverter E, Bosch J. Assessing portal hypertension in liver diseases. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2013 Feb;7(2):141-55. doi: 10.1586/egh.12.83. PMID: 23363263. 4) Tapper EB, Parikh ND. Diagnosis and Management of Cirrhosis and Its Complications: A Review. JAMA. 2023 May 9;329(18):1589-1602. doi: 10.1001/jama.2023.5997. PMID: 37159031; PMCID: PMC10843851.

    5 min

  3. 22 HR AGO

    Gastrointestinal - Cirrhosis

    In this episode, we break down cirrhosis using a clinically focused, high-yield framework. We review the pathophysiology of chronic liver injury leading to fibrosis, portal hypertension, and synthetic dysfunction, along with classic history and physical exam findings. The discussion highlights key laboratory and imaging clues, severity scoring with Child-Pugh and MELD, and essential management strategies for complications such as ascites, varices, hepatic encephalopathy, and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. We also emphasize prevention, surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma, and early transplant referral. References 1) Bushardt RL, Colomb-Lippa DM, Klinger AM, Reed H. The JAAPA QRS Review for PAs: Study Plan and Guide for PANCE and PANRE. 1st ed. LWW; 2021. ISBN: 9781975143817. 2) Heidelbaugh JJ, Bruderly M. Cirrhosis and chronic liver failure: part I. Diagnosis and evaluation. Am Fam Physician. 2006 Sep 1;74(5):756-62. PMID: 16970019. 3) Lewis JH, Stine JG. Review article: prescribing medications in patients with cirrhosis - a practical guide. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2013 Jun;37(12):1132-56. doi: 10.1111/apt.12324. Epub 2013 May 3. PMID: 23638982. 4) Singal AK, Mathurin P. Diagnosis and Treatment of Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease: A Review. JAMA. 2021 Jul 13;326(2):165-176. doi: 10.1001/jama.2021.7683. PMID: 34255003.

    6 min

  4. 22 HR AGO

    Gastrointestinal - Toxic Megacolon

    In this episode, we tackle toxic megacolon, a life-threatening complication of severe colonic inflammation most commonly associated with ulcerative colitis and Clostridioides difficile infection. We review the pathophysiology of nitric oxide–mediated colonic paralysis, hallmark clinical features of systemic toxicity, and the critical imaging findings of colonic dilation ≥6 cm. The discussion emphasizes early recognition, ICU-level management, appropriate antimicrobial and corticosteroid therapy, and clear surgical indications.   References 1) Bushardt RL, Colomb-Lippa DM, Klinger AM, Reed H. The JAAPA QRS Review for PAs: Study Plan and Guide for PANCE and PANRE. 1st ed. LWW; 2021. ISBN: 9781975143817. 2) Sheth SG, LaMont JT. Toxic megacolon. The Lancet. 1998;351(9101):509-513. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(97)10475-5 3) Ausch C, Madoff RD, Gnant M, et al. Aetiology and surgical management of toxic megacolon. Colorectal Disease. 2006;8(3):195-201. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1463-1318.2005.00887.x 4) Tapani MJ, Olavi KH. Surgical Management of Toxic Megacolon. Hepatogastroenterology. 2014 May;61(131):638-41. PMID: 26176049

    6 min

  5. 22 HR AGO

    Gastrointestinal - Chronic Cholecystitis

    In this episode, we break down chronic cholecystitis using a practical, clinically focused framework. We review the pathophysiology of recurrent gallstone obstruction leading to chronic inflammation and fibrosis, along with hallmark history and exam findings such as postprandial right upper quadrant pain with typically normal labs. The discussion highlights first-line imaging, including ultrasound and HIDA scan interpretation, and clarifies how to distinguish chronic disease from acute cholecystitis and biliary colic. We conclude with evidence-based management, patient counseling, and clear indications for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy.   References 1) Bushardt RL, Colomb-Lippa DM, Klinger AM, Reed H. The JAAPA QRS Review for PAs: Study Plan and Guide for PANCE and PANRE. 1st ed. LWW; 2021. ISBN: 9781975143817. 2) Gallaher JR, Charles A. Acute Cholecystitis: A Review. JAMA. 2022;327(10):965-975. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2022.2350 3) Strasberg SM. Acute Calculous Cholecystitis. New England Journal of Medicine. 2008;358(26):2804-2811. doi:https://doi.org/10.1056/nejmcp0800929

    4 min

  6. 22 JAN

    Gastrointestinal - Pyloric Stenosis

    In this episode, we review pyloric stenosis, a classic pediatric surgical condition every clinician should recognize. We cover the underlying pathophysiology of gastric outlet obstruction, hallmark clinical features such as projectile non-bilious vomiting, and key physical exam findings. The discussion highlights diagnostic imaging, electrolyte abnormalities, and evidence-based management, including preoperative stabilization and definitive surgical treatment. References 1) Bushardt RL, Colomb-Lippa DM, Klinger AM, Reed H. The JAAPA QRS Review for PAs: Study Plan and Guide for PANCE and PANRE. 1st ed. LWW; 2021. ISBN: 9781975143817. 2) Vanderbilt University Medical Center Children's Quality & Safety. Pyloric Stenosis Clinical Practice Guideline. Vanderbilt University Medical Center; 2023. https://www.vumc.org/childrens-quality-safety/sites/default/files/public_files/Pyloric%20Stenosis%20CPG_06.20.23.pdf. Accessed January 22, 2026. 3) Garfield K, Sergent SR. Pyloric Stenosis. [Updated 2023 Jan 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555931/

    5 min

  7. 22 JAN

    Gastrointestinal - Peptic Ulcer Disease

    In this episode, we review peptic ulcer disease (PUD) with a practical, clinically focused approach. We cover underlying pathophysiology, key risk factors—including H. pylori and NSAID use—classic symptoms, and important complications such as bleeding and perforation. The discussion highlights diagnostic strategies, evidence-based treatment, and prevention pearls to help clinicians confidently evaluate and manage patients with upper GI complaints. References 1) Bushardt RL, Colomb-Lippa DM, Klinger AM, Reed H. The JAAPA QRS Review for PAs: Study Plan and Guide for PANCE and PANRE. 1st ed. LWW; 2021. ISBN: 9781975143817. 2) American College of Gastroenterology. Peptic ulcer disease (PUD). GI.org. https://gi.org/topics/peptic-ulcer-disease/. Accessed January 22, 2026. 3) National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Peptic ulcers (stomach ulcers) — definition & facts. NIDDK.nih.gov. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/peptic-ulcers-stomach-ulcers/definition-facts. Accessed January 22, 2026. 4) National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Peptic ulcers (stomach ulcers). NIDDK.nih.gov. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/peptic-ulcers-stomach-ulcers. Accessed January 22, 2026.

    8 min

  8. 22 JAN

    Gastrointestinal - GERD

    In this episode, we break down gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with a practical, clinical focus. We review underlying pathophysiology, common risk factors, and classic versus atypical presentations. The discussion highlights key diagnostic considerations, lifestyle and pharmacologic management strategies, and red flags that warrant further evaluation or referral to help clarify everyday decision-making in the management of reflux-related symptoms. References 1) Bushardt RL, Colomb-Lippa DM, Klinger AM, Reed H. The JAAPA QRS Review for PAs: Study Plan and Guide for PANCE and PANRE. 1st ed. LWW; 2021. ISBN: 9781975143817. 2) American College of Gastroenterology. Acid reflux/GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). GI.org. https://gi.org/topics/acid-reflux/. Accessed January 22, 2026. 3) National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Acid reflux (GER and GERD) in adults — definition & facts. NIDDK.nih.gov. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/definition-facts. Accessed January 22, 2026. 4) Dong P, Lin L, Sun K, Tang F, Li Q, Zhou X, Liu F, Yang Z, Li J, Jiang L, Zhao P, Sun X, Wang Q. Accuracy of the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease by a trial of potassium-competitive acid blocker treatment. BMC Gastroenterol. 2025;25:406. doi:10.1186/s12876-025-03981-1.

    6 min
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About

This is a FREE podcast for PA students.....by PA students from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center PA Program. It is designed to help anyone quickly review topics from the PANCE, End of Rotation Exams, and End of Curriculum Exams.

Information

  • Creator
    Kristopher Maday, PA-C, DFAAPA
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    UTHSC PA Program Podcast