Effect of Viral Illness on Procalcitonin as a Predictor of Bacterial Infection in Febrile Infants.

Objective: The impact of confirmed viral infections (CVI) on procalcitonin (PCT) levels in febrile infants aged 8-60 days with a bacterial illness (BI) is unknown. The objectives of the study were to (1) examine the association of CVI with PCT levels in patients with/without a concurrent BI, defined as bacteremia, meningitis, or urinary tract infection, and (2) assess PCT as a predictor of BI in infants with a concurrent CVI.

Methods: In this single-center, retrospective cohort study, we examined febrile infants aged 8-60 days presenting between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2020.

Late-Career Pediatric Hospitalists: Programmatic Accommodations and Supports.

Background: As the number of late-career pediatric hospitalists increases, issues regarding aging and retirement will require more attention. Long shifts and overnight clinical responsibilities may be challenging for older physicians. Our study objectives include investigation of the current state of practice regarding work hours, night call responsibilities, productivity requirements, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) exposure modifications, and division chief knowledge about retirement supports for late-career pediatric hospitalists.

Pulmonary Nodule Size <5 mm Still Warrants Investigation in Patients With Osteosarcoma and Ewing Sarcoma.

Background: Osteosarcoma (OS) and Ewing sarcoma (ES) have a high propensity to develop pulmonary metastases. Lung lesions with calcification, peripheral location, and size >5 mm are more likely to represent malignant metastases. We evaluated the incidence of malignancy in nodules 5 mm or less to potentially guide decisions between biopsy and observation.