USF Health’s IDPodcasts

Travel Medicine, Puerto Rico Edition

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 17:39:06 +0000

Dr. Cordero-Baez, MD, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the Morsani USF College of Medicine, presents a lighthearted (and Bad Bunny-inspired) look at travel medicine recommendations for Puerto Rico, a popular travel destination (and his home country) in the Caribbean. Dr. Cordero starts by taking a close look at Dengue, for which cases experienced a surge on the island as recently as in 2024. He then discusses Zika virus, including the viruses epidemiology, transmission vectors, clinical manifestations, and complications. Chikungunya virus is also briefly discussed. He closes by discussing ciguatera poisoning and several other transmissible syndromes.

Mechanisms of Gram Negative Resistance: Part II–Therapeutics

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 19:41:44 +0000

Dr. Mel O’Neal, Infectious Diseases pharmacist at Tampa General Hospital, presents part 2 of her series on Gram Negative Resistance, focusing on therapeutics for treatment of these resistant pathogens. Dr. O’Neal begins by identifying the main resistance mechanisms, including membrane porins, efflux pumps, drug binding site mutations, and degrading enzymes (e.g., beta-lactamases.) She then systematically covers the major agents used for treating resistant gram negative rods, including the newer beta-lactamase inhibitors, cefiderocol, and third-generation tetracyclines. Cases are also presented to emphasize the topics covered.

Infections Caused by Nocardia and Actinomyces

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 21:39:30 +0000

Dr. Richard Oehler, Professor of Medicine at the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine at USF, presents this updated overview of Nocardia and Actinomyces, two closely-related gram positive filamentous rods which have distinct differences. In his presentation, Dr. Oehler initially covers Nocardiosis, followed by Actinomycosis, and compares and contrasts both and how they produce human infection. Topics covered for both infections include their taxonomy, epidemiology, types of patients infected, infectious syndromes, potential complications, recommended therapies, and duration of treatment. At the end of the talk both Nocardiosis and Actinomycosis are directly compared to help summarize the important learning points presented.

HIV Curriculum Series: Resistance

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 16:31:38 +0000

Dr. Vivian Vega, Infectious Diseases clinician with the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents a focused look at how to interpret HIV resistance patterns in clinical practice. Among the topics discussed include what constitutes a drug mutation, the specifics of having a high resistance barrier, when to obtain a genotype, and when to add an integrate inhibitor genotype. Lastly, specific classic mutations to memorize are discussed.

HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Strategies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 16:47:36 +0000

Dr. Lauren Rybolt, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents a talk on how to to tailor strategies for Pre-exposure prophylaxis, or “PREP,” to the individual patient. Dr. Rybolt begins by discussing USPSTF recommendations. She then moves on to compare and contrast the currently available options for PREP therapy, including TDF/FTC versus TAF/FTC, Cabotegravir, and Lenacapavir. Dr. Rybolt then discusses laboratory monitoring while on the drugs and modifications of PREP therapy in a patient who also has chronic hepatitis B. She closes with her final points regarding the individualization of PREP treatment and the need to continuously assess the patient’s ongoing risk factors.

The Compromised Host: Immune Defect-based Approach to Infection

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 19:33:42 +0000

Dr. Marilia Bernardes, Infectious Diseases Faculty at the Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa, FL, presents an overview of the immune system. Dr. Bernardes skillfully breaks down the immune system into 4 distinct pillars and then its individual biological components. She presents the “who,” “what” and “why” for neutrophils, B-cells, and T cells and covers cellular and humoral immune deficits. She also covers newer immunotherapies such as BTK inhibitors, CAR-T and bispecifics, as well as biologics and other small molecules. Some rapid-fire cases are also presented to integrate the listener’s understanding of the material presented.

Gram Negative Resistance

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 21:35:18 +0000

Dr. Melissa O’Neal, ID Clinical Pharmacist at Tampa General Hospital, provides an overview of gram negative resistance in this fast-paced presentation. Dr. O’Neal begins by describing the general mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance, including cell-wall dependent mechanisms and chromosomal mechanisms. She covers the alteration of membrane porins, over expression of efflux pumps, mutations of drug binding sites, and the production of enzymes that degrade antimicrobials. Next, the speaker covers the beta-lactamases, enzymes that degrade beta-lactam antibiotics, including penicillins, cephalosporins, and carbapenems. The Ambler class classification system is also covered, which offers a helpful way to differentiate the beta-lactamases by type of antimicrobial affected. Amp C resistance is also reviewed, and examples are provided, Lastly, specific bacterial resistance mechanisms are reviewed by each gram negative organism in order to help with knowledge retention.

Candidiasis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 20:58:44 +0000

Dr. Olga Klinkova, Infectious Diseases Clinician at the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents a talk on Candida Infections. Dr. Klinkova begins by discussing the epidemiology of Candida. She then touches upon the importance of biofilms on the pathogenicity of Candida strains. Next, she breaks down the individual Candida species and highlights unique characteristics of each one. Following this, she presents several unique cases of human Candida infections and through the cases, highlights Candida auris, oropharyngeal candidiasis, esophageal disease, and candidemia. Lastly, she closes with information on hepatosplenic candidiasis.

Research Methodology: Beyond the Jargon

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 17:13:32 +0000

Dr. Ambuj Kumar, Professor of Medicine with the USF Morsani College of Medicine, shares his perspectives on how to create and conduct a clinical research study. Among the topics discussed includes study design, the distinctions between randomized controlled trials, case-control studies, and retrospective cohort trials, and how to frame the proper clinical question for study development. The importance of having timely and specific communication, teamwork, and respecting deadlines is also emphasized.

HIV Dermatology 2025

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 14:56:56 +0000

Dr. Patrick Danaher, Infectious Diseases Clinician at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, discusses the various dermatologic manifestations of HIV in this recorded session. Among the topics discussed includes genital herpes disease, Zoster, Mpox infections, MRSA skin lesions, and Kaposi sarcoma. The lecture is presented in a case-based interactive format and is updated for 2025

Surgical Site Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 16:07:48 +0000

Dr. Jose Montero, Professor of Medicine at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, presents an overview of the management of Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) for an Infectious Diseases specialist. The lecture opens with a discussion of the history of SSI management, reviewing milestones in the prevention of these infections and their discoverers, from Semmelweis, to Lister, to Koch. Next, the sources of SSIs are differentiated. Dr. Montero then reviews risk factors for SSIs, and then covers prevention strategies. A major strategy for infection prevention during surgery is antimicrobial prophylaxis, and Dr. Montero highlights systemic and topical antimicrobials useful for this purpose, including timing of administration and duration. Lastly, the speaker focuses on MRSA as an SSI pathogen and offers special considerations for this organism.

ID Emergency: Malaria

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 19:50:59 +0000

Dr. Kami Kim, Chief of Infectious Diseases at the Division of Infectious Diseases, USF Morsani College of Medicine, reviews one of the few truly emergent infectious diseases, Malaria. Dr. Kim begins by discussing the differential of fever in the returning traveller. Next focusing on Plasmodium, she discusses diagnostic techniques, including thick and thin smears and Malaria rapid diagnostic tests. Similarities and differences of the individual species of Plasmodium are next discussed, including Falciparum, Vivax, Ovale, and Malariae. Lastly, the complications of Malaria infection are covered, followed by a brief discussion regarding Dengue virus disease.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 14:37:18 +0000

Dr. Jackie Sherbuk, Assistant Professor of Medicine with the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents an interactive session regarding infections of the skin and soft tissues. Topics discussed include impetigo, folliculitis, furunculosis, cellulitis, necrotizing skin and soft tissue infections, aquatic cellulitis, animal bite infections, cutaneous anthrax, sporotrichosis, and staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. A question and answer format is used, and the format is suitable for board preparation.

CNS Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 19:55:15 +0000

Dr. Vivian Vega, Assistant Professor at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents a discussion about infections of the central nervous system. Dr. Vega begins by discussing encephalitis. Pathogens discussed include Herpes Simplex virus, West Nile virus, Enterovirus, Varicella Zoster, Arboviruses and Rabies. Next, bacterial meningitis is addressed. Lastly, causes of chronic meningitis are elucidated, and Eosiniphilic and health-care associated meningitis are briefly discussed.

Review of Tick-borne Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:23:14 +0000

Dr. Ambika Eranki, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents a review session on infections spread by Ticks. Dr. Eranki addresses specific tick-borne syndromes and arthropod vectors. The speaker also explains how climate change is affecting the distribution of arthropods critical to the spread of these diseases. Syndromes further discussed include Lyme disease, post-Lyme disease syndrome, Anaplasmosis, and Babesiosis.

Fungal Infections Review

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:44:33 +0000

Dr. John Greene, Professor of Medicine and Chief of Infectious Diseases at Moffitt Cancer and Research Institute, conducts this photo review of various human endemic fungal infections. Covered topics include mycetoma, chromoblastomycosis, phaeohyphomycosis, Sporotrichosis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, coccidioidomycosis, and paracoccidioidomycosis. The presentation is suitable for infectious diseases board examination testing.

Bone and joint Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 13:27:58 +0000

Dr. Ambika Eranki, Assistant Professor at the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, presents this review of infections associated with native and prosthetic joints, in addition to infectious of the spine and vertebrae. Dr. Eranki begins by presenting some case based examples of bone and joint infections. She then discusses the definitions and workup of infectious arthritis, septic arthritis, vertebral osteomyelitis, and prosthetic joint infections. A brief review of infections of the diabetic foot is also presented. Dr. Eranki closes by sharing recent important medical publications for bone and joint infections and the diabetic foot.

Infections of Solid Organ Transplants

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 17:44:44 +0000

Dr. Sally Alrabaa, Co-Director of Transplant Infectious Diseases at the Morsani College of Medicine, presents an overview of infection issues surrounding the solid organ transplant patient. Dr. Alrabaa differentiates specific infections based upon the early, medium, and late transplant periods. She then covers infections associated with certain specific immunosuppressive regimens. Next, the speaker discusses infections characteristic of different transplant types, including kidney, heart, liver, and lung transplants. Lastly, Dr. Alrabaa briefly touches upon Covid-19 and transplantation.

Vector-borne and Zoonotic Viral Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 15:38:43 +0000

Dr. Robert Castro, Infectious Diseases Clinician at the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents this review on infections associated with vector-borne and zoonotic exposures. Dr. Castro begins by discussing vector -borne infections, dividing them into mosquito-borne and tick-borne diseases. Syndromes discussed include Dengue, Chikyunguna, West Nile Virus, and Japanese Encephalitis. Next, Zoonotic infections such as Rabies Virus, Hantavirus, Orf virus, and B virus are covered. Dr. Castro closes by discussing vector control strategies.

Parasite Questions: Protozoa and Helminths

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 20:45:41 +0000

Dr. Anthony Cannella, Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, presents a board review session on parasitology, originally recorded in June 2025. (Please note that due to recording issues, some excessive slide cropping occurred for certain slides, and a few frames may not be completely legible. We apologize for the production errors.)

LVAD/Driveline Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:34:41 +0000

Dr. Rachel Irby, Senior Infectious Diseases Physician and founder of the Infectious Disease Team(TM) practice in Largo, Florida, reviews infections of cardiovascular devices. To begin, Dr. Irby defines the functions and patient types suitable for a Left Ventricular Assist Device, and how an LVAD integrates with a heart failure management program. Dr. Irby then reviews the types of infections that occur with an LVAD, along with the symptoms and signs of an infection. The work-up of LVAD/Driveline infections is then discussed, followed by the management steps for mild, moderate, and pump-related infections. Infections according to specific pathogens are then covered. Next, the speaker mentions how to prevent LVAD/Driveline infections. Lastly, Dr. Irby discusses the management steps utilized in heart failure management to get a patient to eventual heart transplantation.

Cytomegalovirus – Board Review

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 15:08:34 +0000

Dr. Olga Klinkova, Assistant Professor at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, and Transplant ID Associate at Moffitt Cancer Center, presents this board review lecture on CMV infections in immunocompromised stem cell transplant recipients. Topics covered include the epidemiology of CMV infection, CMV pneumonitis, CMV GI disease, CMV diagnosis, CMV treatment post-transplant, resistant CMV infection, and CMV prophylaxis options, Interactive questions are included within the presentation.

Measles: A Reemerging Threat

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 20:07:21 +0000

Dr. Rajshri Joshi, Infectious Diseases fellow at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, reviews Measles, a previously eradicated disease that is now making a huge comeback across several areas of the US in recent months. Topics covered include its history, means of transmission, pathophysiology, clinical course, complications, and management. Also covered include measles vaccination/prevention, as well as prevention (vaccination) and other adjunctive therapies.

Artificial Intelligence in Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 29 May 2025 19:34:58 +0000

Dr. Kornblum, an Infectious Diseases fellow at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, reviews the rapidly advancing practice and integration of artificial intelligence technologies into mainstream medicine, with a focus on infectious diseases. Dr. Kornblum focuses on several central themes: (1) How good is the information provided by AI models, such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini or xAI’s Grok, for diagnosing complex medial cases. (2) What are the pitfalls of relying on AI models for medical diagnostics? (3) Are there safety concerns with integrating AI models into a physician’s workflow? And (4) what are the future directions for this technology.

Update on Clostridioides difficile

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 15 May 2025 18:44:26 +0000

Dr. John Toney, Professor of Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, looks at the current landscape of Clostridioides difficile infection in the post-COVID environment. A great deal has changed in the years COVID-19 was a major health treat…including taxonomy, epidemiology, and disease prevalence and distribution, as well as treatment practices. Dr. Toney looks at the role of bile acids in C. difficile, as well as virulence mechanisms. Next, he describes the growing recognition for the need for two step testing to screen for true c. diff associated diarrhea. He then describes antimicrobial management, divided into first episode and subsequent recurrences. Also discussed are emerging biotherapeutic options for treatment and whether a C. difficile vaccine will ever be possible.

Histoplasmosis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 08 May 2025 17:43:13 +0000

Dr. Cilia Nazef, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the USF Morsani College Medicine, presents a talk on Histoplasmosis, an endemic fungal mycosis, in a case based format. Leading off with an in detail discussion of a fascinating patient, Dr. Nazef continues to discuss the clinical manifestations, diagnostic testing, and treatment of this fungal syndrome. She closes the presentation with information on late/long term complications and histoplasmosis in stem cell transplant patients.

Steroids for Various Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 01 May 2025 19:50:51 +0000

Dr. Patimavirujh, A PGY-2 resident at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, reviews the use of steroid medication in the management of infectious diseases syndromes. Following an introduction on the history of steroids in medicine, the speaker compares and contrasts steroid agents with mineralcorticoid and glucocorticoid activity. Next, the pharmacokinetics of steroids are discussed, as well as dose equivalencies for the different steroid molecules. Next, the use of steroids for various infectious diseases are discussed, including for pneumonia (including Pneumocystis infection), bacterial meningitis, TB meningitis, and cryptococcal meningitis.

Sepsis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 17:49:15 +0000

Dr. John Toney, Professor of Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents an update on the management of Sepsis. Dr. Toney begins by discussing the pathophysiology regarding sepsis and septic shock. He then shares the most recent sepsis guidelines. Next, he presents the stages of sepsis and covers the qSofa score. Next, Dr. Toney covers the management of sepsis, including resuscitation, antibiotics, and therapies that were once recommended which have either gone by the wayside or have been modified in the modern era.

Emerging Infections in the Current Century

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 15:01:09 +0000

Dr. Somboonwit, Professor of Medicine with the USF Morsani Division of Infectious Diseases, looks at important infectious diseases that have emerged over the last 20+ years, and the factors that have promoted their emergence. These include climate change, urbanization, international travel, and other factors. Syndromes examined include coronaviruses (SARS CoV1 and SARS CoV2), hemorrhagic fevers (Ebola), and vector-borne diseases (Zikavirus, Chikungunya, and Dengue). Future directions for managing emerging infectious diseases are also explored.

Gram Positive Cocci and Gram Positive Rods of Clinical Significance

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 14:40:04 +0000

Dr. Jackie Sherbuk, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, presents a case-based discussion of gram positive organisms producing disease in humans. Infections discussed include Staphylococcus aureus, Coagulase negative Staphylococcus, Pneumococcus, Streptococcus spp., Enterococcus, Corynebacterium, Bacillus, and Erysipelothrix. Associated clinical syndromes are also discussed.

Managing Infectious Complications in Immunocompromised Cancer Patients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 15:38:19 +0000

Dr. Rod Quilitz, infectious diseases pharmacotherapist at the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents his talk regarding the infectious diseases syndromes likely to be encountered when managing ID complications in an immunocompromised population. Dr. Quilitz begins by discussing risk factors for infection. He then goes on to discuss neutropenic fever management. The contrast between low grade and high grade neutropenia is also differentiated. Next, Dr. Quilitz discusses strategies for prophylaxis of patients who have prolonged neutropenia, including the use of gram positive antimicrobial agents and antifungals. Other subjects covered include the spectrum of CART toxicities, immune reconstitution, prophylaxis for Pneumocystis, CMV disease/prophylaxis, and other viral infections in the immunocompromised population.

Managing Antibiotic Allergies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 14:51:42 +0000

Dr. Arun Sunny, infectious diseases attending for ID Associates of Tampa Bay, discusses antibiotic related drug intolerances. Dr. Sunny begins by reviewing the mechanisms behind types 1 through 4 immune-mediated hypersensitivity. Next, he differentiates DRESS (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms, TEN (Toxic Epidemial Necrolysis)/Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, and AGEP (Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis). Dr, Sunny then further characterizes Beta-lactam and Penicillin drug allergies. He then closes by describing antibiotic-related toxicities and provides several examples.

Zoonoses, Antimicrobial Resistance, and YOU: The One Health Game Plan

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 16:56:56 +0000

Dr. John Sia, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the Morsani College of Medicine, shares a grand rounds presentation on the national One Health Framework for addressing zoonotic diseases in the U.S. Dr. Sia introduces a clinical case involving a patient exposed to a zoonotic infection. Next, he covers different zoonotic pathogens and their vectors and focuses on Bartonella, Bacillus anthracis, and Brucella. Next, he describes how the One Health initiative helps teams of medical clinicians, scientists, and veterinarians to address disease threats in a collaborative fashion. After brief descriptions of two more cases, Dr. Sia closes with further examples of how the One Health Initiative is beneficial in combating antimicrobial resistance and connecting human, animal, and environmental health.

Hospital Epidemiology and Infection Control 101

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 17:54:04 +0000

Dr. John Toney, Hospital Epidemiologist and Professor of Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents a basic review of hospital epidemiology and infection control in this presentation. Dr. Toney begins with defining the concept of hospital infection control, and presents a brief historical perspective. Next, he shares a step by step guide to investigating a hospital outbreak, including confirming the outbreak, forming a case definition, making a hypothesis, testing the hypothesis, and placing the plan into action. Dr. Toney then closes with a series of cases meant to reinforce the concepts presented during the first part of the lecture.

Basic Review of the Microbiology Lab for 2025

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:21:46 +0000

Dr. Suzanne Silbert, Microbiology Director for Tampa General Hospital, presents this introductory talk on the basics of the microbiology lab for 2025. Dr. Silbert begins with an overview of clinical microbiology, and then reviews the basic classification standards for bacterial organisms, viruses and fungi. She then goes on to discuss culture cultivation techniques, including the use of liquid, solid, or semi-solid media. The speaker then covers identification systems for bacterial organisms, including MALDI-TOF, Disk-Diffusion, and molecular diagnostic techniques.

Gram Negative Bacterial Resistance

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 20:58:48 +0000

Dr. Becca Bruning, Infectious Diseases Pharmacy Specialist at the Moffitt Cancer and Research Institute in Tampa, FL, takes a deep dive into the subject of resistance mechanisms for specific gram negative bacteria. Dr. Bruning begins her talk by discussing the primary resistance mechanisms, including porin channels, efflux pumps, and other target sites. Extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) are next covered, including typical bacterial species, identification techniques, ESBL testing, and the use of Piperacillin-tazobactam and carbapenems. Next, Dr. Bruning mentions AmpC-type resistance, and identifies the “HECKYES” bacteria. Pharmacokinetic and phamacdynamic considerations are explored, and specific antimicrobial agents are discussed. Lastly, Dr. Bruning covers the use of carbapenemase testing including the modified hodge test and the Carba-R test.

Anaerobic Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 14:08:43 +0000

Dr. Ju Hee Katzman, Infectious Diseases attending and Program Director of the USF ID Fellowship Program, reviews anaerobic infections in this new presentation. In a question and answer format, Dr. Katzman covers the medically significant anaerobic bacteria and categorizes them by their clinical morphology. Next, she covers several clinical scenarios where the treatment of anaerobic infections is indicated, and those in which it is less advisable. Lastly, Dr. Katzman covers specific anaerobic infections, including the Clostridia, the anaerobic gram positive cocci, Bacterioides, Propionibacterium, and Actinomyces.

HIV Dermatology

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 16:59:38 +0000

The Spirochetes: Leptospirosis and Relapsing Fever

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 23:46:39 +0000

Dr. Richard L. Oehler, Professor of Medicine at the Division of Infectious Diseases, Morsani College of Medicine, reviews two important clinical syndromes caused by Spirochetes. Dr Oehler begins by presenting an actual clinical case of Leptospirosis in a returning traveller from the Caribbean. He then discusses the epidemiology of Leptospira, a widespread zoonotic pathogen that favors temperate and topical climates worldwide. He then relates the life cycle, means of transmission, microbiology, clinical manifestations, and most relevant diagnostic studies. He concludes the leptospirosis section by discussing treatment and prevention. The second case he discusses is a febrile illness in a returning traveler from Jordan. Dr. Oehler goes on to discuss the epidemiology and classification system for relapsing fever (RF), and its broad categorization into tick-borne (endemic) and louse-borne (epidemic) forms. He further describes the characteristics of the soft-shelled Ornithodoros ticks and the Human Body Louse, and differentiates the Hard Tick Relapsing Fevers such as Borellia miyamotoi and B. lonestarii. He then reviews the clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options for each form of RF. Lastly, Dr, Oehler breaks down treatment and prevention strategies for each form of relapsing fever.

Syphilis: An Epidemic

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 17:48:43 +0000

Dr. Kitan Amin, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents this talk on the current state of syphilis in the U.S. Dr. Amin begins by discussing the epidemiology and classification of Treponemial organisms. The history of Syphilis is then reviewed, including the origins of the disease in the new world and the unfortunate history of the Tuskegee trials. Next, the clinical manifestations of Syphilis are detailed, including primary, secondary, late latent, and neurosyphilis. The unique effects of Syphilis in HIV are also covered. Lastly, syphilis testing and treatment are reviewed, including the effects of the recent Benzathine penicillin shortage and alternatives to Penicillin for treatment.

Pneumocystis Pneumonia in Cushings Disease

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 13:56:03 +0000

Dr Cilia Nazef, Infectious diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, explores how Pneumocystis jirovecii, a fungal infection typically affecting immunocompromised patients, can also affect patients suffering from hypercortisolism. Dr. Nazef begins by examining different cases of Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia (PJP) in patients with Cushings disease. Next, she further explains the immunologic basis behind how the hypercortisol state induces immunosuppression. Dr. Nazef closes by examining the basis for PJP prophylaxis in Cushings disease patients, and the shortcomings of the current literature in advocating prophylaxis options.

HIV in Older Patients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 15:55:16 +0000

Dr. Todd Wills, Professor of Medicine with the Morsani College of Medicine at the University of South Florida, reviews the unique complications and issues that can occur in the elderly HIV patient. Dr. Wills begins by reviewing the epidemiology of HIV by age group, including the fact that the HIV positive population is growing older with time. Dr. Wills also discusses issues regarding polypharmacy and medication tolerability in the older patient. Next, the speaker relates how the high prevalence of chronic diseases affect the HIV positive patient’s prognosis. HIV positive elderly patients can suffer not just from frailty, but from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cancer. Dementia can also affect an elderly HIV paitent’s overall wellness and compliance with antiviral therapy. Dr. Wills also covers the assessment of bone density in elderly HIV positive patients. Lastly, Dr. Wills discusses HIV positive patient life expectancy in the modern age of antiretroviral therapy. The lecture is updated for 2024.

Getting to the HAART of HIV Drug Interactions

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 20:31:10 +0000

Dr. Sung Soo Kim, ID clinical pharmacist, presents a talk on the spectrum of HIV therapy and ART (Antiretroviral Therapy)-related adverse drug interactions. Dr. Kim begins by describing the mechanisms by which HIV therapy-related adverse drug interactions occur. Next, he discusses the various classes of antiretrovirals and their specific drug interactions, including integrate inhibitors, NNRTIs, NRTIS, and Protease Inhibitors. Dr. Kim closes by discussing the consequences of unmanaged drug-drug interactions in patients on ARTs as well as the available drug-drug interaction resources available to the clinician.

ID Management of Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplants

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 19:30:42 +0000

Dr. Olga Klinkova covers essential information regarding the management of infectious complications of hematologic malignancies. Topics covered include the initial evaluation of patients, neutropenic fever, neutropenic enterocolitis, and antimicrobial prophylaxis. Next, Dr. Baluch discusses ID management of stem cell transplants, CAR-T therapy, and when it is necessary to administer antimicrobial prophylaxis in these patients. The lecture is updated as of 2024.

What to Do With a Positive Blood Culture in 2024

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 15:53:22 +0000

Dr. Richard Oehler, Professor of Medicine at the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, presents a review of bacteremia. Dr. Oehler begins by reviewing the epidemiology, personal and institutional costs of bacteremia. He then discusses blood culture collection and how false positive blood cultures occur. With the recent blood culture bottle shortage of 2024, he emphasizes the new concept of “blood culture stewardship”–when it is most appropriate to order a blood culture versus when it may be unnecessary. Next, Dr. Oehler reviews automated blood culture systems and other related identification technology, with a focus on new methods of blood culture isolate identification such as multiplex PCR and Maldi-TOF. The speaker then contrasts gram positive and gram negative bacteremia in general and by organism. The management of a positive blood culture with regard to treatment and source control is discussed. Lastly, ways to reduce the incidence of bacteremia are shared.

HIV-Associated Opportunistic Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:56:16 +0000

Dr. Jackie Sherbuk, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents this case-based review of the opportunistic infectious syndromes associated with HIV-AIDS. The speaker covers PJP prophylaxis and treatment, HIV pulmonary disease, and cryptococcal meningitis. Dr. Sherbuk also discusses IRIS (Immune Response Inflammatory Syndrome) and its effect on the AIDS patient when antiretrovirals are started. Lastly, Dr. Sherbuk covers HIV esophageal disorders, Histoplasmosis, Coccidioidomycosis, and Mycobacterium avian-complex-related syndromes.

Antiretroviral Therapy In Clinical Practice: A Case-based Approach

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 20:14:52 +0000

Dr. Jackie Sherbuk, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Morsani College of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases, presents this case-based review of the use of antiretroviral therapy in HIV/AIDS patients. Dr. Sherbuk begins by reviewing and available antireturovial options, including those that are considered first line. She also covers the use of antiretrovirals in special groups, including expectant mothers, elite controllers, treatment experienced patients, HBV/HIV connected patients, and patients with chronic renal insufficiency. Lastly, Dr. Sherbuk discusses the nuances of using co-formulated combinations of antiretrovirals and mentions the newer long-acting injectable preparations.

Intro to HIV in the Human Host

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 20:23:39 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano, Infectious Diseases and HIV Specialist with the University of South Florida College of medicine, presents an overview of the diagnosis and management of HIV infection. Part of USF ID’s Basics of HIV Management Review Series.

The Essentials of Antibiotic Dosing

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 18:19:30 +0000

Pharmacotherapy specialist Kristin Zeitler, PharmD, from Tampa General Hospital in Tampa, FL, presents this talk on the basics of antimicrobial therapy management for hospital patients. Dr. Zeitler begins by emphasizing the important of the ID clinical pharmacist. She then compares and contrasts Pharmacokinetics (PK) , the way drugs move through the body, with Pharmacodynamics (PD), the relationship between serum drug concentration and the therapeutic/toxic effects of the drug. PK/PD effects of antimicrobials are then further explored. Dr. Zeitler goes on to discuss Vancomycin dosing strategies, the effects of serum albumin on serum antimicrobial drug levels, drug penetration into the site of interest, drug dosing strategies for patients with renal insufficiency, and the effects of obesity and critical illness on antimicrobial dosing strategies.

HIV Test and Treat: Initiating Antiretroviral Therapy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:35:44 +0000

Dr. Shylah Moore-Pardo, Infectious Diseases clinician and Assistant Professor at the University of South Florida, reviews antiretroviral initiation in HIV positive patients. In a case-based format, Dr. Pardo begins by discussing the interpretation of HIV test results. Next, she highlights several unique positive test scenarios. Dr. Pardo then reviews the characteristic serological patterns of acute HIV infection. The impact of False Positive HIV testing is also explained. Also covered are patients known as elite-controllers and long-term non-progressers who are more tolerant of HIV infection. Dr. Pardo then goes on to describe essential components of the initial HIV positive patient encounter. She then relates recommended test and treat strategies compatible with current guidelines. Lastly, she covers the next steps in management for future patient visits.

Introduction to Antibiotics, 2024

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 16:52:23 +0000

Dr. Jose Montero, Medical Director of the Antibiotic Stewardship Program at Tampa General Hospital, presents a basic review of the use of antibiotics in infectious diseases for 2024. Dr. Montero reviews the different classes of antibiotics used in the hospital setting. He then covers each agent’s mechanisms of action, spectrum of activity and common indications. He also mentions the most common adverse reactions associated with antibiotic agents. Classes of agents covered include the penicillin agents, cephalosporins, carbapenems, fluoroquinolones, macrolides, aminoglycosides, glycopeptides, oxazolidinones, glycylcyclines, and beta-lactam-beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations. Lastly, Dr. Montero reviews emerging new agents on the horizon.

Dropping the MIC: Review of Updated Breakpoints and Implications on Clinical Practice

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 14:07:20 +0000

Melissa Albert, Infectious Diseases Pharmacist at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital, discusses the recent new literature regarding changes in the clinical breakpoints. Utilizing clinical cases, Dr. Albert demonstrates how to interpret antimicrobial susceptibility reports as well as how to design a patient-centered treatment regimen. Dr. Albert also discusses inducible AmpC-E resistance and how specific breakpoints have been changed for Aminoglycosides. From a lecture originally presented in March 2024.

Immunizations in HIV Care

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:39:35 +0000

Dr. Shylah Moore-Pardo, Assistant Professor with the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, reviews the basics regarding vaccinations in the HIV-positive population. Dr. Pardo first reviews routine immunizations, such as Influenza, Tetanus, and COVID-19. She then covers risk specific vaccines, such as shots for Hepatitis B and C, meningococcus, and Mpox. Next, Dr. Pardo discusses routine vaccines indicated based upon one’s age, including Shingles, HPV, and pneumococcus. She then reviews non-routine vaccines given as indicated (Rabies, Men-B, Travel vaccines, etc.). Lastly, in a question and answer format, Dr. Pardo goes over common vaccine-oriented board questions and provides explanations and context as to the answers to those questions. From a lecture originally presented in January 2024.

Climate Change: Expectations for a Future Infectious Diseases Landscape

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 31 May 2024 19:12:04 +0000

Dr. Lauren Rybolt, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the Division of Infectious Diseases, Morsani College of Medicine, discusses the ways that climate change is expected to alter the infectious diseases landscape. Dr. Rybolt begins her talk with the discussion of vector-borne diseases, and then goes on to discuss zoonotic infections, water-borne diseases, habitat changes, and natural disaster impacts. Lastly, Dr. Rybolt completes her talk by sharing information on climate change solutions and adaptations.

HHV6 and Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 17 May 2024 15:53:09 +0000

Dr. Guy Handley, Assistant Professor of Medicine with the Division of Infectious Diseases, USF Morsani College of Medicine, provides an overview of Human Herpesvirus 6 in Stem Cell Transplant Patients. Dr. Handley uses clinical cases to describe several scenarios related to HHV6 infection. Topics discussed include background, HHV6 latency, reactivation, clinical presentation, encephalitis, treatment strategies, and outcomes. Guidelines for HHV care are also discussed. Dr. Handley closes by discussing controversies and future directions in HHV6 management.

HIV-associated Opportunistic Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 09 May 2024 18:22:33 +0000

In a lively case-based format, Dr. Jackie Sherbuk, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Division of Infectious Diseases, Moroni College of Medicine at USF, reviews important opportunistic infections (OI’s) in HIV/AIDS patients. Included in the talk, Dr. Sherbuk discusses effective timing of antiretrovirals in the setting of an opportunistic infection. She addresses HIV associated pulmonary disease, cerebral Toxoplasmosis, Cryptococcosis, esophageal candidiasis, cryptosporidiosis, Mycobacterium Avian Complex, and Histoplasmosis. Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS) is also discussed as a phenomenon when antiretroviral therapy is started in the setting of an OI.

Understanding updates in the M. Tuberculosis and HIV Continuum

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 02 May 2024 15:43:50 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano, Professor of Medicine at the Division of Infectious Diseases, USF Morsani College of Medicine, reviews the epidemiology of Tuberculosis and its relationship to Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection. Topics discussed include TB trends in the US, factors contributing to an increase in TB morbidity, tuberculosis transmission, TB screening, and progression to active disease. Next, Dr. Morano outlines the relationship between tuberculosis and HIV infection. She also presents pearls on the use of antiretrovirals in active TB treatment and how to utilize TB meds in patients who are on antiretrovirals.

Pneumocystis Jirovecii

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 14:13:45 +0000

Dr Guy Handley, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Division of Infectious Diseases, Morsani College of Medicine, discusses the Clinical manifestations of Pneumocystis Jirovecii infections in a question and answer format. Dr. Handley begins the talk by giving an overview of Pneumocystis, including its history and taxonomy. He then discusses the typical presentation when it causes pneumonia (PCP), the most likely clinical manifestation. Dr. Handley then covers PCP treatment, including the most commonly used therapy (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxasole) and other alternatives. Next, diagnostic testing is discussed, including the use of the 1,3 Beta-Gucan test. Lastly, the use of Echinocandins for the treatment of PCP pneumonia is covered.

Basic Science Primer for Infectious Diseases Laboratory Testing

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 17:09:42 +0000

Jessica Kennedy, MD, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, discusses the scientific basics around many of the primary Infectious Diseases tests ordered by providers. Dr. Kennedy discusses the scientific basis for EIA/ELIZA, Quantiferon, chemiluminant immunoassays, lateral flow assays, RT-PCR, Fungitell, and LC/MS-MS. In explaining these diagnostic assays, Dr. Kennedy helps the provider understand the limitations and advantages of each test and when they are best used in a clinical scenario.

Infectious Diseases Publications that May Affect Your Practice, Part 2

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 18:00:22 +0000

Dr. Arun Sunny, Infectious Diseases Senior Fellow at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, presents a second overview of the current infectious diseases literature focusing on studies that may influence your medical practice. Dr. Sunny focuses on the areas of climate change, prophylaxis, antimicrobial stewardship, and the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence) in medicine. From a talk originally presented in February, 2024.

Germs Rejoice! Bell Tolls for the ID Doc?

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 18:14:07 +0000

Dr. John Sia, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, looks at the field of Infectious Diseases Medicine, and its prospects for continued success in recruitment and the economics of practice. Dr. Sia looks at some of the challenges for the infectious Diseases clinician, what ID needs to do to continue to attract some of the brightest and most talented medical professionals to the field, and how ID continues to be one of the most satisfying and rewarding of all the medical subspecialties. Dr. Sia also shares some of the reasons he chose Infectious Diseases as part of his own personal journey.

The Tale of an Ancient Ally: Phage Therapy, Part II

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 20:29:07 +0000

Dr. Diaz Vera, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, presents a companion lecture to his original talk on bacteriophage therapy. Because of the rising tide of antimicrobial resistance, many experts believe that we are entering the post-antibiotic era in medicine. As a result, researchers are exploring phage-antimicrobial synergy in an attempt to make our antibiotic armamentarium go farther. Dr. Diaz elaborates on the application of phage-antimicrobial synergy and provides examples of phage therapy utilized in the clinical setting.

For Dr. Diaz’s original talk, please click here: Intro to Bacteriophage therapy

Infections of the Eye, Part II

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 17:04:14 +0000

In the second of his two part series, Dr. John Toney reviews additional infectious syndromes involving the eye. For Part 2, Dr. Toney begins by discussing uveitis, and then covers preseptal and postseptal orbital cellulitis. Next he shares information on endogenous endophthalmitis and dacrocystitis. Finally, in a lightning round, trachoma, Parinaud’s oculoglandular syndrome, and Herpes Zoster ophthalmicus are presented. For Part I of this talk, please see the previous week’s posted presentation.

Infections of the Eye, Part I

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 16:52:18 +0000

In a two part series, Dr. John Toney, Professor of Medicine at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, reviews various infectious syndromes involving the eye. For Part One, Dr. Toney initially reviews the anatomy of the eye. Next, he reviews blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and diseases of the cornea. Dr. Toney concludes the lecture by discussing microbial keratitis, HSV keratitis, and acanthamoeba keratitis. For part II, please refer to the upcoming presentation posting next week.

Mold Pneumonias in Oncology Patients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 16:36:16 +0000

Dr. Guy Handley, Assistant Professor at the USF Morsani Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, presents a talk on Fungal pneumonias in immunocompromised patients. Dr. Handley begins by discussing the differential diagnosis of pneumonia, and then an overview of the most common types of mold pneumonias by pathogen. He then shares a case presentation of a mold pneumonia and discusses options in a question and answer format utilizing PollEv. Next, Dr. Handley focuses on Aspergillosis , then Zygomycosis, and compares and contrasts the two. Diagnostic and treatment options are explored for the invasive molds. Lastly, future directions in mold therapy are mentioned, including Fosmanogepix, ibrexafungerp, Rezafungin, and others.

Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterial Infections, Part 1

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 20:34:04 +0000

Dr. Anthony Cannella, Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, presents this update on nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections. Dr. Cannella begins by discussing the taxonomy of nontuberculous mycobacteria. Next, he reviews epidemiology including the common methods of transmission of the infection. He then describes the immunological factors that confer increased susceptibility for certain individuals. Laboratory growth characteristics are also reviewed. Dr. Cannella then reviews the most significant species of NTM producing disease in humans. He begins by describing Mycobacterium avium complex, and then discusses M. kansasii, M. xenopii, M. haemophilum, S. szulgai, and M. marinum. Clinical cases are presented throughout the talk to help with information retention and provide specific clinical examples.

Surgical Prophylaxis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 20:19:53 +0000

Dr. Shuchi Pandya, infectious diseases clinician with the ID Associates of Tampa Bay, presents an update in the use of antimicrobials for surgical prophylaxis. Dr Pandyla begins by clarifying the definition of a surgical site infection. She then differentiates the categories of surgical procedures in terms of clean, clean contaminated, contaminated, and dirty procedures and their typical microbial characteristics. She then discusses other aspects of antimicrobial prophylaxis, including timing, duration, and surgery-specific variations. Specific recommendations for GI Surgery, OB-Gyn, orthopedic, breast, and spinal surgery are also discussed in a fast paced presentation.

Aspergillus, Mucor, and Sporothrix Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 21:24:03 +0000

Dr. Aliyah Baluch, Program Lead for Bone Marrow Transplant Infectious Diseases at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, reviews Important opportunistic fungal pathogens of relevance to the stem cell transplant and immunocompromised patient. Dr. Baluch beings by discussing the pharmacologic options for aspergillus treatment and their individual mechanisms of action. Next, through a case-based format, she reviews specific scenarios related to fungal infections with Aspergillus, Mucor, and Sporothrix. Lastly, new agents in the antifungal pipeline are discussed, and a robust question and answer session closes the presentation.

Protozoal Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 21:36:54 +0000

Dr. Jackie Sherbuk, Assistant Professor at the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, reviews the most important protozoal infections affecting humans. Dr. Sherbuk begins by discussing Entomaeba histolytica, the agent of amoebic colitis, amoebic liver abscess, and dysentery. Next, Dr. Sherbuk elaborates on Leishmaniasis, differentiates visceral, mucosal, and cutaneous disease and and discusses diagnosis and treatment. Next, the speaker discusses Trypanosoma Cruzei (Chagas disease), including epidemiology, geographc distribution, life cycle, clinical manifestations, and the differences seen in immunocompromised persons. She closes by covering old and new world trypanosomiasis. Several case studies are also presented to help test the learner’s retention of the presented information.

Diabetic Foot Infections: Toe to Toe

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 14:50:42 +0000

Dr. Richard L. Oehler, MD, Professor of Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents this update on Diabetic Foot Infections (DFIs). Focusing on recent guidelines updates from 2023, Dr. Oeher discusses DFI epidemiology, pathophysiology, and Diabetic foot exam basics. He then goes on to review diabetic vascular disease and its role in the progression of diabetic foot complications. Dr. Oehler then reviews the workup of diabetic foot infections including imaging and physical examination findings. Lastly, the management of diabetic foot osteomyelitis is discussed including treatment strategies and prevention.

Pneumonia

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 19:01:22 +0000

Dr. John Greene, Professor of Medicine and Chief of Infectious Diseases at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents a review of Pneumonia in this podcast. He differentiates the different pneumonia types by lung pattern, distinguishing the likely etiologies in the categories of ground glass pnuemonia, consolidative infiltrates, small and large nodular pneumonia, and cavitary disease. The lecture is presented in a case-based format to facilitate retention of the information and for ease in learning. Noninfectious etiologies of lung infiltrates are also presented.

Antivirals and Antifungals in Cancer Patients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 20:21:02 +0000

Dr. Rod Quilitz, Lead Pharmacist and Antimicrobial Stewardship Program Coordinator at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents a comprehensive talk on the use of antifungal agents and antivirals in the Malignancy patient. Dr Quilitz begins by reviewing the mechanisms of action of different antifungal drug classes. He next discusses Polyene antifungals, azoles, echinocandins in order and includes information on their structure, indications, spectrum of action, dosing information, and toxicities. Lastly, Dr Quilitz discusses antivirals used in the treatment of Herpesvirus family infections, including acyclovir, ganciclovir, foscarnet, cidofovir, and others.

Malaria and Fever in the Returning Traveller

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:45:41 +0000

Dr. Kami Kim, Chief of the USF’s Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, presents an update on Malaria and fever in the returning traveller. Dr. Kim begins her talk by presenting an overview of the tropical infections associated with a febrile presentation. She then discusses the work up if the returning traveller with fever, including essential elements of the history, physical exam, and laboratory workup. She then reviews the history of malaria and then moves on to malaria epidemiology. The life cycle of malaria is presented, and then the factors associated with transmission are reviewed. Malaria diagnostics are also discussed. Lastly, Dr. Kim closes by contrasting the distinctions between the individual malaria species (falciparum, malariae, ovale, knowlesi) and their clinical spectrums of disease.

Overview of Antibiotics

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 15:45:46 +0000

Dr. Jose Montero, Professor of Medicine at the Division of Infectious Diseases, Morsani College of Medicine, presents a basic review of anti-infective agents. Dr. Montero begins by discussing the initial assessment of antibiotic choice, related to broad versus narrow spectrum coverage, allergy assessement, and awareness of normal flora versus pathogens. Next, he discusses MIC interpretation and mechanisms of resistance. Dr. Montero then covers each of the major antibiotic classes, including cephalosporins, carbapenems, flouroquinolones, aminoglycosides, gloycopeptines, and oxazolidinones. Lastly, Dr. Montero discusses antibiotic agents used for the coverage of highly resistant bacteria. Cost information about antibiotic agents is also shared.

HIV and Malignancy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 19:28:26 +0000

Dr. Ana Velez, Professor of Medicine and Infectious Diseases Clinician at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, discusses the association between malignancies and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection. Dr. Velez begins by discussing that factors in HIV disease and stimulate the formation of cancers. Next, Dr. Velez discusses AIDS defining maligancies, including Kaposi sarcoma, Non-Hodgekin Lymphoma, and cervical cancer. Dr. Velez then discusses lung cancer and head and neck cancer in HIV disease, and speculates on the reasons for poorer outcomes in these patients. Lastly, state of the art therapies for malignancy treatment in HIV patients are discussed, including stem cell transplantation and CAR-T therapy.

Essentials of Antibiotic Dosing

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 19:36:43 +0000

Dr. Kristen Zeitler, a pharmacist and pharmacotherapy specialist at Tampa General Hospital, discusses basic information about how to properly dose antimicrobial agents in hospital patients. Dr. Zietler begins by discussing the role that ID clinical pharmacist play in hospitals. She then compares and contrasts the differences between pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD). The principles of pharmacokinetics are then covered, with regard to absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Next, PK/PD concepts are explored, especially as it relates to Vancomycin. Lastly, adjustment of dosing in renal insufficiency or dialysis is explored.

Basic Principles of Microbiology

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 17:56:41 +0000

Dr. Suzanne Silbert, Microbiology Director for Tampa General Hospital, presents this introductory talk on the basics of the microbiology lab. Dr. Silbert begins with an overview of clinical microbiology, and then reviews the basic classification standards for bacterial organisms, viruses and fungi. She then goes on to discuss culture cultivation techniques, including the use of liquid, solid, or semi-solid media. The speaker then covers identification systems for bacterial organisms, including MALDI-TOF, Disk-Diffusion, and molecular diagnostic techniques. A robust question and answer session concludes the session

Long Covid Syndrome

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 17:17:51 +0000

Dr. Puja Kohli, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, provides an update on Long Covid Syndrome. Dr. Kohli begins by discussing what is believed to be the pathophysiology of long Covid, including the immunology behind the long manifestations of the disorder. She then breaks down the specific features of long Covid syndrome by organ system, including respiratory, cardiovascular, hematologic, CNS, renal, and GI manifestations. She then discusses specific treatments for long Covid, including proactive strategies as well as some of the debunked treatments that continue to be used by some communities outside of mainstream medicine. Other treatments are also discussed, including antibiotics, monoclonal antibodies, and SSRIs.

The “Other” Coronaviruses

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 20:07:02 +0000

Dr. Jaraad Dattadeen, Infectious Diseases Senior Fellow at the Division of Infectious Diseases at the USF College of Medicine, discusses coronaviruses other than SARS-CoV2. Dr. Dattadeen begins by discussing the general classification of Coronaviruses as well as their microbiology. The speaker covers SARS CoV-1, MERS, as well as HCoV-OC43, HCoV-229, HCoV-NL63, and HCoV-HKU1. Each virus subtype is compared with SARS-CoV2. The intermediate hosts and reservoirs of select coronaviruses are also discussed.

Artificial Intelligence and Infectious Disease

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 21:26:18 +0000

Dr. Amro Elshereye, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the Morsani USF College of Medicine, explores the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine in this interactive presentation and faculty discussion. The speaker begins by discussing early warning systems such as Healthmap which utilize AI to predict developing outbreaks. Next, Dr Elshereye explains voice recognition technology in medicine, including AI-powered transcription systems such as Dragon Medical One. The discussion then moves on to generative transformer technology including ChatGPT, which could revolutionize many fields of health practice, including consultation, doctor-patient communication, and diagnostic interpretation. Lastly, Dr. Elshereye also explores the drawbacks of artificial intelligence and some of the grave predictions many technology thought leaders have made if guardrails are not put in place soon enough for AI.

Biological Warfare: Past, Present and Future

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 25 May 2023 20:30:29 +0000

Dr. William Greene, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the USF Morsani College Medicine, discusses biological weapons in this new podcast. After defining the concept of a bioweapon, Dr. Greene first discusses the extensive history of bioweapons, starting in ancient times, extending through the middle ages, through the world wars, and beyond the cold war to the present day. Next, Dr. Greene categorizes biologic terrorism agents by their CDC category, and discusses current bioterrorism threats. These include Anthrax, Plague, and Smallpox. Specific treatments to these infections are also discussed.

Notable Recent Studies that Could Affect Your Practice

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 19 May 2023 17:07:49 +0000

Dr Arun Sunny, infectious diseases fellow at the USF Morsani Division of Infectious Diseases, discusses three main publications that could change the practice habits of an Infectious Diseases specialist. The three publications involve: (1) The use of post-exposure doxycycline to prevent sexually transmitted infections; (2) The use of hydrocortisone for severe community acquired pneumonia; (3) Early lead extraction for infected implanted electronic devices; and (4) The effects of early sign-offs (discontinuation of care) of infectious diseases consultants. The presentation includes a lively discussion from participants on the merits and pitfalls of each of the presented studies.

Switching Antiretroviral Therapy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 11 May 2023 20:39:27 +0000

Dr. Jacqueline Sherbuk, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of South Florida Morsani Division of Infectious Diseases, presents information on considerations for switching antiretroviral therapy in the HIV positive patient. Dr. Sherbuk begins by presenting the indications for switching therapy (pill burden, adverse effects, etc). Next, she explains various factors to consider when switching regimens, including prior ARV (antiretroviral) history, comorbidities, and so on. Next she covers the reasons for virologic failure, and how resistance assays are crucial to determining the best path forward if ARV agents need to be modified. Dr. Sherbuk then relates the basic principles of choosing a new ARV regimen. Lastly, the speaker discusses several case based examples of switching therapy with explanation of the rationale and best practice approaches in doing so.

HIV in the Elderly

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 01 May 2023 20:05:18 +0000

Advances in Bacteriophage Therapy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 17:14:58 +0000

Dr. Jesus Diaz, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, reviews the burgeoning anti-infective technology known as bacteriophage therapy. Bacteriophages are virions that have strong antibacterial properties. Dr. Diaz first reviews the history of bacteriophage therapy. He then reviews the morphology and anatomy of bacteriophages. Dr Diaz then differentiates the lysogenic versus lytic cycle and explains the role of bacterial transduction. The speaker then reviews the specifics of phage therapy. Lastly, Dr Diaz covers a few examples of the use of bacteriophage therapy in clinical practice.

History of Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 19:34:39 +0000

Dr. David Rutenberg, senior Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, presents a session chronicling some of the most significant historical milestones in ID history. Dr. Rutenberg begins by discusses Malaria’s origins, including its early interactions with humankind, as well as the discovery of its host and eventual therapeutic treatments. Next, the speaker covers Tuberculosis, including early strains, its rise through the the middle ages, and the modern recognition of TB attributed to Robert Koch. Moving on, Dr. Rutenberg discusses nontuberculous mycobacteria, specifically Leprosy, the scourge of the middle ages. Inherent in the history of Hanson’s disease was the tremendous stigma associated with the diagnosis, correct or incorrect. Dr. Rutenberg closes by covering Smallpox, the only one of the historical diseases of mankind that has been completely eradicated.

Tuberculosis Update

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 19:58:48 +0000

Dr. Beata Casanas, Professor of Medicine at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, presents an update on tuberculosis. Dr. Casanas begins her talk by discussing the current epidemiology of tuberculosis. She then reviews tuberculosis transmission. Next, she discusses tuberculosis screening and the progression from tuberculosis exposure to active TB.

HIV Core Curriculum: PrEP Therapy and Injectables

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 16:03:45 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano, Director of the Infectious Diseases Telehealth and HIV Clinical Program at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa, FL, reviews pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV as well as the newer long acting injectable antiretroviral options. Dr. Morano begins by discussing the epidemiology of HIV infection in the Southeast U.S., one of the highest prevalence areas for HIV. She then reviews the recent research trials associated with cabotegravir-rilpiverine (Cabeneuva) and important information regarding its use. Next, she discusses specific administration details at her hospital as well as injection techniques. Lastly, Dr. Morano covers PrEP indications and prescribing tips and how telehealth care can enhance care in PrEP, nPEP, HIV longitudinal care, STD treatment, sexual health, and general infectious diseases care.

Managing Beta-Lactam Allergies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:02:06 +0000

Dr. Tiffany Ward, Infectious Diseases Pharmacist at the James Haley VA hospital in Tampa, FL, begins her presentation by reviewing the impact of beta-lactam allergies on individual patients and the healthcare system. She then discusses the classification system for the different types of hypersensitivity reactions. Next, Dr. Ward discusses the various dermatologic manifestations of an acute drug allergy. Dr. Ward then mentions the use of cephalosporins in patients with penicillin allergies. She goes on to explain how beta-lactam allergy testing is performed. Lastly, she relates the importance of updating antibiotic allergy information in the medical chart for effective anti-infective management and care.

Sexually Transmitted Infections Update 2022-23

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 18:58:05 +0000

Dr. John Toney, Professor of Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, presents this STI treatment refresher updated for 2022-2023. Dr. Toney begins by reviewing the new changes to the latest 2021 STI guidelines (updated from 2015). He next discusses Chlamydia and Neisseria, Chancroid and LGV. Next, he discusses syphilis. Topics discussed related to syphilis includes differentiating primary, secondary, and latent disease, diagnostic testing and treatment. Dr. Toney closes by discussing genital Herpes and Trichomoniasis.

Ectoparasitic Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 18:31:56 +0000

Dr. Shylah Moore-Pardo, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Morsani College of Medicine, presents a review of parasitic diseases of the skin and soft tissues. Clinical syndromes discussed include pediculosis (head and body/pubic lice), scabies, bedbugs, myiasis, tungiasis, and cutaneous larva migrans. Syndromes with a geographic preference are associated with their locality of origin. The presentation is conducted in a case-based format, aiding in learning of the material.

Hepatitis A, B, and C Clinical Overview

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 19:38:40 +0000

Dr Todd Wills, Professor of Medicine at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, presents an overview of the management of viral hepatitis syndromes. Dr. Wills first discusses Hepatitis A, including its case definition, epidemiology, high risk groups, and vaccine target population. Next, Hepatitis B is introduced. Dr. Wills explains how to interpret serology test results, and specifies the high risk populations that require treatment. Next the speaker discusses the various antiviral agents available to treat patients who have Hepatitis B infection. Lastly, Hepatitis C is discussed, including the disease’s prevalence, treatment options, the importance of genotyping, and post treatment monitoring.

Dimorphic Endemic Fungal Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 16:38:21 +0000

Dr. John Greene, Chief of Infectious Diseases at the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, reviews the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and disease manifestations of several endemic fungal mycoses. Among the fungal organisms discussed includes, Histoplasmosis, Blastomycosis, Coccidioidomycosis, Paracoccidioidomycosis and Cryptococcosis.

Note: We apologize for some of the technical difficulties present in this presentation, including some obscured slides and the Zoom overlay panel along the top of the presentation window.

Mechanisms of Gram Negative Resistance

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 19:22:55 +0000

Austin Morrison, Antimicrobial Stewardship Pharmacist at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents a broad overview of gram negative resistance. Topics discussed include the basic mechanisms of resistance, the classification scheme for beta-lactamases, as well as more specific information regarding specific beta-lactamse groups. First discussed are the the Class C (Amp C) beta-lactamases, followed by the Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) organisms, and then difficult to treat Pseudomonas aeruginosa (DTR). Several case studies are also presented to help understand the clinical effects and available treatment options for these resistance mechanisms.

Selected Gram Positive Bacteria of Clinical Significance

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 22:13:53 +0000

Dr. Jacqueline Sherbuk, Assistant Professor at the Morsani College of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases, presents a review on several important classes of clinically significant gram-positive bacteria. Dr. Sherbuk begins by discussing Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, and Coagulase negative Staphylococci and some of the clinical syndromes they can cause. Next, Dr. Sherbuk introduces Streptococcus pneumonia and the syndrome of invasive pneumococcal disease. Then, Group A strep pyogenes, the viridans streptococci, and the variant streptococci are related. Also presented are Enterococcus faecalis and vancomycin resistant enterococcus faecium. Lastly, Dr. Sherbuk references Corynebacterium spp., Listeria, Bacillus, and Erysipelothirx spp.

Overview of Osteomyelitis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 16:22:41 +0000

Dr. Margarita Cancio, Medical Director of the Infectious Diseases Associates of Tampa Bay, draws on her decades of experience in treating orthopedic infectious to present this overview of the management of infections of bone and joints. She begins by discussing hematogenous osteomyelitis in both children and adults, and differentiates its presentation, microbiology, surgical management, and therapy. Next, she covers contiguous osteo, relating its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and the surgical classification systems associated with it. She then differentiates between bone infections related to open fractures and closed-type fractures. Lastly, she covers prosthetic joint infections and how to interpret histopathological bone protocols.

Overview of Respiratory Viruses

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 18:51:41 +0000

Dr. Ana Velez, Associate Professor with the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, presents an overview of clinically significant respiratory viruses. Dr. Velez mentions several agents including parainfluenza, RSV, Human Metapneumovirus, Influenza A and B, Rhinoviruses, and the non-COVID-19 Coronaviruses. The speaker touches on the seasonality of respiratory viruses, reviews clinical manifestations, epidemiology, prevention and treatment options.

Arboviruses and Zoonotic Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 19:43:19 +0000

Dr. Jackie Sherbuk, Assistant Professor at the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine at the USF Morsani College of Medicine presents this Podcast on Viral Zoonotic and Arboviral infections. Medical syndromes discussed includes Rabies, Orf (Ecthyma contagiosum), Herpes B Virus, Alphavirus, Chikungunya, Dengue fever, Yellow fever, West Nile Virus, Japanese Encephalitis, Tick-borne Encephalitis, Hantavirus, California Encephalitis, And Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis virus. Board review type questions are also presented to aid in integrating the information presented in the talk

Guidelines on the Management of C. difficile Infection in Adults

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 13 Oct 2022 19:50:09 +0000

Dr. Cynthia Mayer, Infectious Diseases Clinician at the Infectious Diseases Associates of Tampa Bay, presents a review of Clostridium difficile infection. Dr. Mayer reviews the proposed etiologies of C difficile infection. She then covers the clinical presentation of C difficile infection and reviews the relevant examination criteria. Next, Dr. Mayer summarizes the treatment and management options for Clostridium difficile based upon the specific etiology. Lastly, the speaker discusses appropriate infection control management strategies.

Endocarditis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 14:46:19 +0000

Dr. Margarita Cancio, Medical Director of the Infectious Diseases Associates of Tampa Bay, presents a talk on the assessment and management of infectious endocarditis. Dr. Cancio begins by reviewing the epidemiology of endocarditis. She then discusses the the microbiology of endocarditis pathogens in both native valve and prosthetic valve disease. The clinical manifestations of endocarditis are next discussed. Following this, Dr. Cancio discusses treatment options. Other issues discussed include culture negative disease, surgical management, CIED infections, cardiac imaging, and antimicrobial prophylaxis.

Sepsis: The Saga Continues

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 14:45:40 +0000

Dr. John Toney, Professor of Medicine at the USF Division of Infectious Diseases, presents an update on Sepsis. Topics presented included the recognition of sepsis and septic shock, the principles of resuscitation, the treatment of infection, the importance of reducing secondary infection rates, and controlling hyperglycemia. Lastly, specific treatments for severe sepsis are also discussed.

Bacteremia: What to do with a Positive Blood Culture

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 20:39:45 +0000

Antibiotic Overview

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 18:25:45 +0000

Dr. Jose Montero, Professor and Director of the Antimicrobial Stewardship program at Tampa General Hospital, presents a basic review of antibiotic usage. Focusing on antibacterials, Dr. Montero differentiates the different antimicrobial classes, reviews the spectrum of activity and the common indications for different antibiotic agents. Dr. Montero also covers the most likely adverse reactions that are associated with specific antibiotic classes. Antibacterial agents covered include cephalosporins, other beta-lactams, carbapenems, aminoglycosides, glycopeptides, and beta-lactam-beta-lactamase inhibitors.

Essentials of Antibiotic Dosing: Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 18:30:28 +0000

Austin Morrison, Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Stewardship Clinical Pharmacist at the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents a talk on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles associated with the optimal dosing of antimicrobial agents. Dr. Morrison begins by defining basic antimicrobial concepts, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. He then compares and contrasts concentration-dependent versus time-dependent killing as it applies to different antimicrobial classes. Dr. Morrison then specifically singles out beta-lactams and time-dependent killing and the benefits of extended dosing strategies. He also discusses the significance of the AUC/MIC curve. Lastly, Dr. Morrison concludes by discussing antibiotic dosing in renal insufficiency and the ideal strategies for this group of patients.

HIV/AIDS: Optimism and New Directions for Ending the Epidemic

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 19:31:26 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano, Associate Professor at the USF Morani College of Medicine, presents an overview of HIV/AIDS care in 2022. Dr. Morano begins by reviewing HIV epidemiology, including national regions of high HIV prevalence. She then discusses the “Test and Treat” approach to management. Antiretroviral treatment updates are presented, included the use of TAF and the new availability of longer acting injectable agents. HIV testing issues are also discussed, including testing barriers and HIV-related stigma. The concept of Undetectable=Untransmissable is also discussed. Lastly, Dr. Morano reviews PREP (preexposure prophylaxis) and nPEP (non-Occupational Post exposure Prophylaxis) for HIV.

Basic Immunology

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 14:18:14 +0000

Dr. Anthony Cannella, Infectious Diseases Clinician and Associate Professor with the Division of Infectious Diseases at the Morsani College of Medicine, presents a primer on basic immunology for clinicians. Dr. Cannella begins by drawing a distinction between innate and adaptive immunity. He then discusses the complement cascade, antimicrobial peptides, PAMPS, and DAMPS. Next, Dr. Cannella reviews individual components of the immune system, including neutrophils, eosinophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells. Lastly, the remaining components of the immune system are covered, including B cells, immunoglobulins, and T cells and their function.

ID Management of Patients with Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplants

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 21:42:24 +0000

Infectious Diseases Emergencies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 19:54:35 +0000

Dr. Guy Handley, Assistant Professor with the Division of Infectious Diseases at the Morsani College of Medicine, presents his talk on infectious diseases emergencies. He discusses a variety of different syndromes, including bacterial meningitis, neutropenic fever, bacteremia, malaria, and viral hemorrhagic fevers. The information is presented in a Q&A format. This talk is Part of the “Infectious Diseases Bootcamp” series for USF infectious Diseases fellows presented in August, 2022.

Infectious Complications of the Primary Immunodeficiencies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 26 Jul 2022 18:40:45 +0000

Dr. Tuhina Cornelius, senior infectious diseases fellow at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, reviews the primary immunodeficiencies in this podcast presentation. The speaker begins by presenting the basics regarding the differences between cellular and humoral immunity. She then discusses specific B cell and T cell related immune deficits. Dr. Cornelius then goes on to describe disorders of phagocytosis, motility, complement, and other miscellaneous syndromes. Lastly, the management of these disorders is reviewed.

Tuberculosis: The Great Imitator

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 20:13:11 +0000

Dr. Suhel Sabunwala, Senior Infectious Diseases fellow at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, presents an update on Tuberculosis, a legacy disease of mankind rich in history and very much still highly prevalent in the modern world. Dr. Sabunwala begins by discussing the history of tuberculosis. He then transitions to the current status of TB disease and its impact in the US and across the globe. He further discusses how TB and COVID-19 have interacted during the pandemic. Lastly, the speaker discusses updates in treatment and global targets for eradication.

Genitourinary Tract Infections: Update for 2022

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 19:13:04 +0000

Dr. John Toney, Professor of Medicine at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, presents an update on Genitourinary tract infections. He begins the presentation by discussing the many manifestations of UTIs, from asymptomatic bacteriuria to cystitis to pyelonephritis. He then differentiates acute uncomplicated and acute complicated cystitis. Next, he discusses acute pyelonephritis, its management and treatment options. More information on the assessment of asymptomatic bacteriuria is also presented. Next, Dr. Toney transitions to discussing updates in the the management and treatment of STI’s including Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, and Syphilis with an emphasis on the recent guidelines updates.

Update on CMV and Treatment Options for 2022

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 19 May 2022 20:34:18 +0000

Dr. Aliyah Baluch, Program Director of the Infectious Diseases Transplant Program at the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents an update on CMV infections in the Immunocompromised host. She begins by discussing the basics of allogeneic stem cell transplantation, including pre-transplant screening and what differentiates a “high risk transplant.” She then provides some background information on Cytomegalovirus, including its clinical manifestations in susceptible patients. Next, Dr. Baluch conveys the phases of infection in stem cell transplant, and identifies the high risk period for CMV disease to typically occur. She then discusses CMV diagnosis, antiviral therapies, and CMV prophylaxis strategies. Dr. Baluch closes by discussing CMV drug resistance as well as several information resources useful in the management of CMV-infected patients.

Neglected Tropical Diseases: Part II

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 12 May 2022 15:04:12 +0000

Dr. Ana Sikora, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, presents a review of lesser known tropical infectious diseases syndromes. Dr. Sikora begins by discussing the epidemiology of tropical diseases, and then prioritizes the most important ones based upon WHO categorization. Syndromes discussed includes Drucunculiasis, lymphatic filariasis, Onchocerciasis, soil transmitted helminths, and Schistosomiasis. Lastly, the process by which international organizations such as the WHO coordinate efforts to control or eradicate these syndromes is briefly discussed.

LGBTQ+ Health 101

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 05 May 2022 17:41:39 +0000

Dr. Alberto Contreras, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, presents a primer on medical issues associated with lesbian, bisexual, gay and transgender patients. Dr Contreras begins by discussing the spectrum of those individuals who identify with the LGBTQ community. He then differentiates sexual orientation and gender identity. Next, Dr Contreras covers basic gender grammar. He next discusses health care disparities occurring among this group of patients. Other topics covered during the presentation include substance abuse, care guidelines for LGBT patients, and the effects of hormone therapy.

Dynamic Duos: Dual Therapy for Gram Positive Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 15:24:14 +0000

Dr. Austin Morrison, Infectious Diseases/Antimicrobiaql Stewardship pharmacist at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents a lecture on the use of dual therapy in gram positive infections. Dr. Morrison begins by discussing dual therapy for Staphylococcus aureus infections, and then transitions to discuss similar therapy for Enterococcus faecalis. Dr. Morrison shares information on mechanisms of action, the rationale for dual beta lactams, and the use of daptomycin with beta-lactams.

Syphilis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 16:32:35 +0000

Dr. Michael Gelfand, Chief of Infectious Diseases at the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, discusses the spectrum of Syphilis disease, one of the great mimickers and historical scourges of human kind. Syphilis cases are also seeing a resurgence in recent years, especially in high U.S. prevalence areas such as the midwest, northeast, and south. Syphilis rates are also increasing across the globe in places such as Europe, Russia, and China. Dr. Gelfand begins his talk by discussing the historical origins of Syphilis, including that Treponema pallidum may have been brought back to Europe from the new world by returning explorers. He then provides more information on the epidemiology of Syphilis. Next, Dr. Gelfand talks about the natural progression of Syphilis, from primary disease to its secondary and tertiary forms. The clinical manifestations of syphilis disease are then described. Dr. Gelfand then describes the conundrum of Syphilis testing. Lastly, Dr. Gelfand focuses on tertiary forms of Syphilis, including neurosyphilis. The treatment of various forms of Syphilis is also discussed. From a grand rounds lecture originally recorded on April 14, 2022.

The Use of Procalcitonin as a Diagnostic Marker in Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 20:14:00 +0000

Dr. David Gilbert, Professor of Medicine at Oregon Health Sciences University, presents an update on the use of procalcitonin as a diagnostic marker. Dr. Gilbert emphasizes the role of procalcitonin in three main clinical sydromes: Community acquired pneumonia, Sepsis, and COVID-19 Pneumonia.

Cognitive Bias: Changing the Way We Look at the World

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 21:29:02 +0000

Dr. Oehler, Professor of Medicine at the Division of Infectious Diseases, Morsani College of Medicine, presents a lecture on Cognitive Bias in Medicine. Dr. Oehler begins by comparing and contrasting the different kinds of bias. Next, the author draws a contrast between intuitive and analytical thinking and how cognitive biases result when intuitive thinking is misapplied. Dr. Oehler next explains how intuitive thinking is a necessary, but imperfect tool in medicine. He relates the advantages and disadvantages of using instinctive thinking in medicine. Next a series of 10 clinical vignettes are presented, each demonstrating an important type of cognitive bias in medicine in an interactive format. The speaker concludes his talk with a “lightning round” of other types of cognitive bias that are also important to be aware of.

A Brief History of Vaccination

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 17:00:44 +0000

Dr. Thomas Burkhead, infectious diseases fellow at the University of South Florida, reviews the history of vaccination. He begins by discussing the early history of variolation, perhaps the first technique for immunizing people against a contagious pathogen. He then reviews Edward Jenner and his experiments with cowpox that led to the first vaccine for smallpox. Next, the origins of the “Germ Theory” of infectious diseases is reviewed. Dr. Burkhead then discusses the research of Louis Pasteur and his success with Rabies vaccination. Next, the speaker contrasts innate and adaptive immunity, and explains passive immunization, adjuvants, and the history of development of the polio vaccine. Lastly, Dr. Burkhead reviews the vaccine advances in the latter half of the 20th century and early 21st century, including pneumococcal vaccines, recombinant vaccines, adenovirus vector vaccines, and the recent COVID-19 vaccines.

What You See is What You Got: Cutaneous Manifestations of Parasites

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 20:54:17 +0000

Dr. John Toney, Professor of Medicine at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital, focuses upon infections and infestations of the skin associated with parasites. Topics discussed include scabies, cutaneous larva migrans, human pediculosis, Lyme borreliosis, trypanosomiasis, rickettsial disease, leishmaniasis, bedbugs, and myiasis. From a lecture recorded in January 2022.

Clostridium Difficile Treatment: Focus on the New Guidelines

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 20:57:19 +0000

Dr. Mercurio, an ID Clinical Pharmacy Specialist at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital, presents an update on Clostridium Difficile infection (CDI). Dr. Mercurio begins by sharing a timeline of the history of C difficile treatment. She then reviews the epidemiology of this common hospital pathogen. Next, she discusses the clinical definition of CDI. Dr. Mercurio next relates changes to the c difficile recommendations in the 2017 and 2021 guidelines. Finally, she discusses later generation treatments including Fidaxomicin and Bezlotoxumab. From a presentation recorded in August 2021.

Adult Immunization Update for 2021-2022

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 14:40:35 +0000

Dr. John Toney, Director of Epidemiology at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa, FL., presents this update on adult immunizations. He begins with an overview of recommended adult immunizations. Next, he discusses pneumococcal vaccines. Following this, Dr. Toney differentiates the different Flu vaccines, including the current vaccine for the 2021-2022 year. He also mentions potential universal flu vaccines currently under investigation. Other vaccines discussed include TDAP, the different Varicella zoster vaccines, Meningococcal, HBV, and HPV vaccines. Lastly, several helpful case studies are presented.

Dermatology and ID 2021

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 20:45:46 +0000

Dr. John Greene, MD, Chief of Infectious Diseases at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents this fast-paced photo review of various infectious disease related syndromes. Topics covered include drug-related photosensitivity conditions, fungal skin infections, viral exanthems, zoonotic dermatoses, bite-related skin infections, sexually-transmitted infections, Non-tuberculous mycobacterial skin infections, and contact dermatitis.

Zoonoses

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 23:22:57 +0000

Dr. John Greene, Chief of Infectious Diseases at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, shares a photo review of Zoonosis syndromes. Topics presented include tick-borne infections, Bartonellosis, Louse-borne infections, Rickettsioses (Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Rickettsial pox, etc), Coxiella, Ehrlichia, and Relapsing Fever. Dr. Greene concludes the talk by covering Tularemia, the Plague (Yersinia Pestis), Orf, and the non-venereal Treponematoses.

Antimicrobial Dosing in Obesity

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 13:19:47 +0000

Dr Jaela Fredenrich, ID Clinical Pharmacist at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa, FL, discusses the differences that a clinician encounters when dosing antibiotic agents for patients with higher than average BMI values. She begins by describing the reasons why obese patients require special antibiotic dosing, and how the average weight of the typical U.S. adult has changed in the past several decades, making more patients fall into this category. Next, she discusses the specifics of the AUC/MIC concentration-time curve as it applies to aminoglycosides, vancomycin and beta lactams. The differences in volume of distribution for various classes of antibiotics is discussed next. Weight based versus fixed dosing for different antibiotic classes is also covered. Lastly the best resources for guidance in antibiotic dosing are shared with the audience.

Staphylococcal Infection: Bacteremia

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 15:01:23 +0000

Dr. Chambers, Professor of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, presents a state of the art lecture on current trends in the management of Staphylococcal bacteremia. Dr. Chambers begins by discussing risk factors leading to a poor outcome with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. He next discusses the role of Echocardiography (including 2D echo and TEE) in the diagnosis of endocarditis and when to use each modality in a given patient. Next, he contrasts the therapeutic management of both methicillin susceptible and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Topics also discussed include the use of oral step down therapy in the treatment of endocarditis and bacteremia, the appropriate duration of treatment courses for bacteremia (both complicated and uncomplicated), and the use of combination antibiotic regimens for treating bacteremia infections.

Primer on the Primary Immunodeficiencies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 19:56:29 +0000

Dr. Walter, Division Chief of the Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, presents this basic review of Immunology. Dr. Walter begins by reviewing the basic classification of general immunodeficiency syndromes, and then covers the initial work-up for patients who are suspected as having an immune system deficiency. She then discusses signs and syndromes in specific patients that could suggest a primary immunodeficiency. Next, she discusses antibody deficiency syndromes and autoantibodies, She closes by discussing a specific immunodeficiency case with relevant details highlighted within the presentation.

Intro to OB/GYN Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 14:53:52 +0000

Dr. Ju Hee Katzman, Assistant Professor of Infectious Diseases at the University of South Florida, presents an overview of the infectious diseases syndromes that can complicate the intrapartum or post-partum period. Dr. Katzman begins her presentation by discussing chorioamnionitis. She then reviews two post-partum syndromes, endometritis and refractory post-partum fever of undetermined origin. Next, Dr. Katzman discusses infections after perineal lacerations, including simple cases and more complicated ones involving deeper tissue involvement. Lastly, the treatment of UTIs in the peri-partum period is discussed, and Dr. Katzman closes by discussing post-abortal infections and the treatment of Group B Streptococcus agalactiae. Utilizing PollEverywhere, the material is presented in an interactive format.

Guide to Autos, Engraftment, and GVHD in Stem Cell Transplant Recipients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 19:03:29 +0000

Dr. Olga Klinkova, Infectious Diseases Practitioner at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute in Tampa, FL, reviews the basics of Stem Cell Transplantation (SCT) from an Infectious Diseases perspective. She begins by reviewing the indications for SCT, and then discusses the basic types of SCT based upon donor/recipient characteristics (matched related, matched unrelated, etc.) She then differentiated the timelines between autologous and allogeneic transplants. Next, she discusses Graft versus Host disease and its consequences to the SCT patient. Dr. Klinkova then closes by covering prophylaxis strategies for stem cell transplant recipients. From a lecture recorded in October 2021.

Infectious Diseases Issues Pre and Post Transplantation

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 21:27:32 +0000

Dr. Margarita Cancio, founder and Medical Director of the Infectious Diseases Associates of Tampa Bay, presents this talk on the infectious diseases management of transplant patients both before and after transplantation occurs. She begins by discussing the importance of a thorough pre-transplant evaluation, including a full history with regard to employment, travel, immunizations and other background history. She describes the laboratory evaluation of these patients, including specific screening studies. Next, infectious diseases history of the transplant donor is covered, as prior exposures to various infectious pathogens can affect the transplant recipient in many significant ways. Dr. Cancio then covers significant issues post transplantation, including the reactivation of certain infections such as the herpesviruses, hepatitis B and C, tuberculosis, and strongyloides infection. She then reviews the timing of certain infections after transplantation, with the highest risk period being directly after transplantation occurs. Lastly, infectious complications associated with specific immunosuppressove regimens and pre-transplant immunizations are reviewed.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Update for 2021

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 21:01:32 +0000

Dr John Toney, Professor of Medicine and the Morsani College of Medicine and Chief of Epidemiology at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital shares new recommendations in the management of STDs and STIs. He begins by discussing recent epidemiologic trends in STDs in the US, including the increasing trend in new reported cases over the last 5 years. he then focuses on causes of urethritis/cervicitis, including Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. The updated treatment recommendations for GC and Chlamydia are also discussed. Next, Dr. Toney discusses Syphilis. He explains the rationale behind Treponemal and Non-treponemal tests and how they are used to diagnose the stage of syphilis that is present. Treatment options for early and late syphilis are also explored. Lastly, Dr. Toney discusses Herpes genitalis and Trichomoniasis.

Introduction to Basic Immune System Function

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 18:18:50 +0000

Dr. Cannella, Assistant Professor at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, presents an introductory lecture on immune system function. He begins by discussing the first line body defenses such as the skin, mucous membranes, and lymphatic system. He then differentiates the innate versus the adaptive immune system. He then discusses other components of the immune system, including the complement pathway, antimicrobial peptides, PAMPS, DAMPS, phagocytosis, neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and NK (Natural Killer) cells. A second lecture is planned for later in the fall of 2021.

PO Versus IV Antibiotics for Osteomyelitis and Endocarditis: What’s the Evidence?

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 18:37:39 +0000

Dr. Sherbuk compares and contrasts the advantages and disadvantages of of intravenous versus oral antibiotic therapy regimens in the treatment of infections of bone and the heart in this new podcast. She begins by reviewing the history of osteomyelitis treatment, noting that IV therapy really predominated until the late 1980’s, then the first clinical studies of oral antibiotic therapy for osteo began. Dr. Sherbuk then focuses on the OVIVA trial. She concludes that although multiple RCTs demonstrate noninferiority, further research is needed on this treatment modality. The speaker next reviews PO Step-down therapy for endocarditis, including the POET trial. She concludes that PO step down therapy is an option for certain endocarditis patients, though several issues remain unclear including the length of the IV antibiotic lead-in, the preferred oral regimen, and the frequency of monitoring.

Malaria: Scourge, Mosquito-borne Malady, or just a Permanent Pandemic

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 15:44:16 +0000

Dr. Richard L. Oehler, Professor of Medicine at the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases, presents a talk on the leading single infectious diseases killer of mankind. From its origins at the dawn of humanity throughout Greek, Roman, Middle Age, and contemporary history, Malaria has been a constant threat to civilization and continues to profoundly affect communities in the developing world. Dr. Oehler begins by discussing Malaria’s presence in modern literature, and the well known historical figures that have battled it. Next, he mentions how malaria has been in factor in US millitary history, from the Civil War to the great wars of the 20th century and even to the building of the Panama Canal. The epidemiology of malaria in the 21st century is then discussed, including the heavy burden of the world’s malaria cases currently occurring in Sub-Saharan Africa. The malaria life cycle is reviewed, and the specifics of transmission (including the role of the anopheles mosquito) are conveyed. Next, Dr. Oehler shares information on the clinical manifestations of Malaria, including the distinction between complicated and uncomplicated disease. Other topics mentioned in his lecture include Malaria host genetics, Malaria therapeutic recommendations, Malaria in travelers, Malaria prevention (including chemoprophylaxis), and vaccines.

Clostridium Difficile: History, Management, and Updates

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 16:11:17 +0000

Dr. Contreras, Infectious Diseases fellow at the University of South Florida, discusses a review of Clostridium difficile disease, a major healthcare-associated disorder. He begins by discussing the history of this potentially devastating disease. He then reviews basic epidemiology trends over the last several decades. Next, he reviews C. difficile risk factors. Following this, Dr. Contreras shares the latest recommendations from the recently published new C. difficile IDSA guidelines, including recent changes to the initial treatment of first outbreaks of the disease. Lastly, Dr. Contreras discusses management options for recurrent C difficile, including fecal transplantation, Bezlotoximab, and other potential future therapies.

Updates in Coccidioidomycosis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 20 May 2021 20:09:36 +0000

Dr. Fariba Donovan, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Arizona, and Faculty Member of the Valley Fever Center for Excellence in Tucson, presents her thoughts and perspectives on Coccidioidomycosis, a soil fungus that produces a variety of different pulmonary and non-pulmonary human infections in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised hosts. Dr. Donovan begins her presentation by discussing the epidemiology of Cocci, including the regional areas of high endimicity and typical environmental exposure risks. She then further defines the typical signs of mild self-limited “Valley Fever” and differentiates this from disseminated forms of the infection. The diagnostic work up of Cocci is then reviewed, and she then describes patient treatment, outcomes, and prognosis. Lastly, Dr. Donovan comments on the risks of endemic mycoses on patients on the newer immunomodulatory agents.

Pandemics That Changed History

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 06 May 2021 19:47:43 +0000

Dr Michele Davis, Infectious Diseases fellow at the University of South Florida, discusses historical pandemics of the past in this intriguing podcast. Dr. Davis begins her presentation by defining what constitutes a “pandemic.” She then describes ancient pandemics such as the Plague of Athens, Antonine, Cyprian plague, the Antonine plague, and the Justinian plague. Communicable plagues of the middle ages are also covered, such as leprosy, the black death, the first cholera pandemic, and the Spanish Flu. Finally, pandemics of the last few decades are also explored, including HIV/AIDS, SARS, and COVID-19. Lastly, Dr Davis discusses the lessons learned from previous outbreaks and how pandemics demonstrate why equitable access to health care resources is so critical.

Adverse Effects Associated with Cancer Immunotherapies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 20:15:43 +0000

Dr. Hareesh Singam, infectious diseases senior fellow at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, discusses some of the side effects associated with newer cancer therapies in this informative podcast. Dr. Singam broadly divides his remarks into two categories: Syndromes related to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors, and Syndromes related to CAR-T Cell Therapy. He begins by briefly introducing the Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs) and their mechanisms of action. He then discusses mechanisms of ICI toxicity and their clinical features. Dr. Singam goes on to discuss the associated infectious risks and how they are managed. Next, Dr Singham moves on to CAR-T Cell therapy, including its mechanisms of action, what occurs with cytokine release syndrome (CRS), and describes CAR-T Related Encephalopathy (CRES), CAR-T related hematophagic lyphohistiocytosis/macrophage activation syndrome (HLH/MAS), and the factors behind infectious risk after CAR-T therapy. Lastly, Dr. Singam discusses the use of Tocilizumab in CAR-T therapy.

Neglected Gram Positive Bacilli

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 20:12:45 +0000

Dr. Lopez discusses the gram positive rods/bacilli which are perhaps lesser well known to the clinician but have important clinical relevance nonetheless. He first discusses the classification system for these bacteria. He then descibes coryneform bacteria other than C. diphtheriae, such as C. jeikeium, which can cause both community-acquired and nosocomial infections. Next, Dr. Lopez discusses Bacilli other than B. anthacis. Erysipelothrix rhusiopathae is an example of this category. Next mentioned are anaerobic non-spore-forming gram-positive rods. Cutibacterium is an example of a pathogen producing infections associated with pustular skin eruptions and infections of implanted hardware. Anerobic spore-forming rods such as Clostridium are a major cause of human infections, including gas gangrene, C difficile, and others. In the end, the listener can easily be convinced that the spectrum of gram positive organisms are equally as diverse as the better known group of gram negative bacteria.

Great Mimics of Infectious diseases: A False Tale of Rashes and Fevers

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 14:19:25 +0000

Dr. Nlandu, Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of South Florida, discusses noninfectious conditions that can mimic everyday infectious diseases diagnoses. He begins by discussing hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a life threatening clinical syndrome characterized by extreme immune system activation. Next, he covers Behcet’s disease, a form of vasculitis commonly manifesting as mucocutaneous disease. Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is a rarely diagnosed syndrome seen in persons of Mediterranean descent that can mimic many infectious diseases conditions. Lastly, Adult Onset Still’s disease is a syndrome producing a triad of fever, arthrlagias, and a salmon-covered rash. The diagnosis and management options for each syndrome is characterized.

Mycobacterium abscessus in Florida: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Research Implications

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 20:36:40 +0000

Dr. Anthony Cannella, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the USF Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, reviews Non-tuberculosis Mycobacteria, with a focus on Mycobacterium abscessus spp. Dr. Cannella begins his presentation by reviewing the microbiology and epidemiology of M. abscessus and their spectrum of disease. He then transitions to discussing the pathophysiology of how these infections occur as well as the pharmacologic options available for treating them. He closes by presenting the research implications of M. abscessus infections from the perspective of the immunological response and pharmacotherapeutic options.

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: Aminoglycosides and Vancomycin

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 16:52:52 +0000

Dr Amanda Mercurio, ID clinical pharmacist at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital, discusses the latest guidelines regarding the dosing and therapeutic drug monitoring of aminoglycosides and vancomycin. Dr. Mercurio begins by identifying the pharmacokinetic parameters for dosing antibiotic medications. She reviews the concepts of steady state and loading doses. She distinguishes between concentration dependent, AUC dependent, and time dependent dosing. She then discusses the unique pharmacokinetic parameters for aminoglycosides, including the benefits of extended interval dosing. Dr. Mercurio then goes through a step-by-step process for calculating aminoglycoside dosing based upon preferred nomograms. Next, Dr. Mercurio moves on to Vancomycin therapeutic modeling. In particular, she discusses the differences between older peak and trough-based dosing with the newer recommendations to dose based upon AUC modeling. Dr. Mercurio closes by going through a case-based example of dosing using the new guidelines.

Basic Principles of Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 17:21:00 +0000

Dr. Burkhead, infectious diseases fellow at the University of South Florida, covers HIV History, the development of HIV antiviral therapy, and current treatment strategies in this comprehensive update. Dr. Burkhead begins by reviewing the different classes of antiretrovirals. He then traces the chronological history of antiretroviral development, from the initial trials of AZT through the introduction of other NRTIs, Protease inhibitors, NNRTIs, and the Integrase inhibitors. Next, Dr. Burkhead discusses antiretroviral therapy in special situations, such as in those who are pregnant, have chronic kidney disease, or cardiac disease. Important antiretroviral mutations are also discussed. Lastly, Dr. Burkhead closes the talk by discussing future directions for antiretroviral therapy.

Syphilis: The Return of Corky the Killer

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 22:01:08 +0000

Dr. John Toney, Professor of Medicine at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital, reviews information about one of humanity’s greatest and most enduring scourges. Professor Toney begins by recalling the history of syphilis. He next relates the current epidemiology of syphilis in the US. The pathophysiology of syphilis is next discussed, as well as the manifestations of primary, secondary, and tertiary syphilis. The clinical manifestations of neurosyphilis are also reviewed. Lastly the association between syphilis and HIV is presented and therapy for syphilis is briefly covered.

Vaccine Hesitancy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 18:45:39 +0000

Dr. Fredenrich discusses the origins and consequences of the vaccine hesitancy movement in this informative podcast. She begins by tracing back recent anti-vaccine sentiment to the now retracted 1998 Lancet article published by Dr. Andrew Wakefield and its initial origins to 19th Century London. She relates the decades-long success story of vaccines in reducing childhood and adult morbidity from vaccine preventable diseases such as measles, chicken pox, and polio. She identifies some of the factors that cause vaccine hesitancy among new parents. She then highlights some of the relevant laws relating to vaccine exemptions across the U.S. Next, Dr. Fredenrich mentions some of the falsely maligned components of vaccines that are commonly cited as a reason for parent reluctance. She also associates the significance of social media in producing vaccine sentiment among parents and adults. Lastly, she relates how medical providers can use their trusted influence with their patients and their families to help them make the right decisions about vaccines.

Perspectives on the Pandemic: Palpating the Pachyderm

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 02 Oct 2020 19:33:01 +0000

Drs. John T Sinnott, Kami Kim, and Seetha Lakshmi, distinguished Infectious Diseases faculty at the University of South Florida, discuss updates to the 2019 Coronavirus pandemic. Dr. Sinnott begins by tracing the beginnings of the pandemic, from its sylvatic origins in bats likely through an intermediary vector (a pangolin) to its first human hosts. Dr. Sinnott follows the pandemic to America, and shares some of the early assessments about the threat of the disease which were unheeded. Next, Dr. Sinnott discusses our current understanding of the pathophysiology of the SARS-2 Coronavirus, including its route of infection in the human host. Dr. Kim next discusses the specifics of Coronavirus testing, including the proper use and interpretation of molecular and antibody-based tests. Dr. Lakshmi then discusses current Coronavirus-targeted therapies, including convalescent plasma, remdesivir, dexamethasone, and monoclonal antibody-based treatments. Dr. Sinnott closes by discussing post-COVID syndromes and how the pandemic will likely end.

Bacterial Toxinology

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 21:22:48 +0000

Dr. Katzman reviews the importance of toxins in the manifestation of bacterial diseases. Bacterial toxins cause injury by producing tissue damage to the host during a bacterial infection. The different mechanisms by which bacterial toxins can produce injury are reviewed, including via intracellular and cell surface targets, membrane damage, superantigens, and involvement of the extracellular matrix. Dr. Katzman next reviews several well-known bacterial toxins, including Staphylococcal and Streptococcal toxins and Pseudomonas exotoxin A. Lastly, toxin therapies, such as toxoids and passive immunization are reviewed.

Infectious Diseases Board Review

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 19:04:09 +0000

Dr. Vivian Vega reviews several interesting Infectious Diseases cases she has managed over the last several years, and includes relavant ID-related pearls about diagnosis and management. From an infectious diseases conference recorded in September 2020.

Great Cases in Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 14:34:53 +0000

Dr. Anthony Cannella, Associate Director of Epidemiology at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital, presents a series of clinical cases from his years in infectious diseases practice. The cases are presented in a visual, interactive format. From a virtual session originally recorded on August 19, 2020.

The Great Debate: Sensitive versus Susceptible

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 19:08:42 +0000

Dr. Mercurio reviews antimicrobial susceptibility testing methods and explains how this data reported with culture results can be best used to make informed antibiotic treatment decisions. Dr. Mercurio begins by discussing the difference between MIC and MBC, and the misconceptions about MIC values for different antibiotic agents. Next, she reviews recent changes in the susceptibility breakpoints for several bacterial organisms, including Enterococcus spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacteriaceae, and Pseudomonas. Lastly, she reviews the resistance issues with the “SPACE/SPICE” bacteria as well as inducible clindamycin resistance, and closes with comments on heteroresistance issues in bacterial populations.

Gastroenterocolitis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 15:22:51 +0000

Dr. John Greene, Chief of Infectious Diseases at Moffitt Cancer Center, reviews disorders involving the gastrointestinal tract. Syndromes discussed include Cholera, traveller’s diarrhea, Typhoid fever, Salmonellosis, Campylobacter, pathogenic E coli, Echinococcosis, aeromonas, and Vibrio. Dr. Greene presents the topics in a fast paced, photo quiz format.

Varicella Zoster Virus Infections: Insights and Therapeutics

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 10 Jul 2020 21:55:56 +0000

Dr. Toney reviews the epidemiology and management of Varicella Zoster infections. He first discusses the prevalence and clinical presentation of this herpesvirus family infection. He points out the importance of recognizing the prodrome in patients before the complete outbreak occurs. He goes on to discuss the clinical complications of VZV disease, including ophthalmologic, multi-dermatomal, and disseminated infections. He next discusses the treatment options available to manage Zoster infections. The subject of available Zoster vaccines is then discussed, with a focus on the newer Recombinant Zoster Vaccine (RZV). Lastly, Dr. Toney presents a couple of photo case-studies.

Current Issues with Hepatitis for the Florida Provider

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 18:51:36 +0000

In this update recorded in November, 2019, originally for Florida providers, Dr. Baluch reviews Hepatitis A, B, and C. She includes information on Hepatitis C treatment and includes several valuable takeaway points.

Infection Prevention Updates from a Clinical Infectious Diseases Perspective

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 18:38:55 +0000

Dr. Baluch provides an overview of how to structure an infection control program for a hospital. She reviews the different types of infection control precautions (standard, contact, droplet, special, airborne). She also addresses specific situations such as with measles and with stem cell transplant patients and other immunocompromised individuals.

Impact of Infectious Diseases on the Economy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 16 Jun 2020 18:02:25 +0000

Dr. Shewayish shows how public health is an essential component of economic prosperity. This is at no time more a poignant argument than in the midst of the current pandemic, where it is clear that the key to economic recovery is to vanquish the coronavirus outbreak. As we have seen in the Spring and early Summer of 2020, infectious diseases can affect a large swath of the business sector, from agriculture, to manufacturing, transportation, hospitality/travel, and many others. Some industries may have a business model that is incompatible with an infection outbreak. Others may ride the wave of increased demand that occurs as a result of the disease’s impact on society. A disease outbreak may also cause individuals to withdraw from the economy due to fear, job loss, or reduced services. Investing in public health is an endeavor that pays countless dividends. As the pandemic shows, societies around the world need to do more to invest in the health of their populations and in preparing for the next outbreak that may impact us.

Neglected Tropical Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 22 May 2020 20:56:11 +0000

Dr. Horn reviews several important tropical diseases, including Chagas disease (caused by Trypanosoma cruzii), spread by the Triatomid bug, African Trypanosomiasis, the cause of sleeping sickness, Cystercercosis, caused by the Pork tapeworm, and Buruli ulcer. He closes by discussing Onchocerciasis and its effect on significant areas of the developing world.

The Immune System: A Double Edged Sword

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 16:30:48 +0000

Dr. Perez-Lopez discusses the association of certain infectious diseases as a factor in the development of cancer. These so-called “oncogenic” microorganisms can induce both solid organ and bone-marrow-related malignancies through a variety of mechanisms. Among the oncogenic viruses, Epstein Barr Virus, Human Papilloma Virus, and the Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C viruses are well-known causes of cancer, causing EBV lymphoma, cervical cancer, and hepatocellular cancers, respectively. But bacterial infections can also induce malignancies, as Helicobacter pylori’s association with MALT lymphoma demonstrates. In addition, the speaker explains, as we understand the pathogenic mechanisms behind many bacterial agents (e.g., Pseudomonas), we are learning ways we can use their infectious potential as a treatment mechanism against certain medical conditions. Dr. Perez-Lopez closes his talk by discussing how the oncogenic potential of viruses is now an emerging weapon in our therapy against many diseases. By utilizing their ability to incorporate their genome into cells, certain viruses are a potent tool in gene therapy via genetic modification.

Opioids and Infectious Diseases: The Dual Epidemic

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 18:41:28 +0000

Dr. Nlandu focuses on the opioid epidemic, and the increasing prevalence of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) in American society. He begins by looking at the epidemiology of the opioid epidemic, including how pharmaceutical manufacturer-centered initiatives to promote increased awareness of pain and misinformation about the addictive potential of opiates led to increased prescribing by providers. Over time, this led to misuse of opiate products and the declaration of a public health emergency by HHS in 2017. He then defines opiate use disorder and discusses how to identify patients at risk for the syndrome. Next, Dr. Nlandu relates how patients with OUD are at risk for the development of a variety of infectious diseases, including bacterial and viral disorders. He discusses opiates and HIV, Opiates and Hepatitis B and C, and opiates and bacteremia and endocarditis. Dr. Nlandu also touches upon the administration of outpatient antibiotic therapy in patients with IV drug use history. Lastly, Dr. Nlandu mentions needle exchange programs and the application for an MAT waiver to treat patients with opioid use disorder.

The 1918 Flu Pandemic

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 18:51:09 +0000

Dr. Edward Drehs reviews the history of the 1918 Flu pandemic. He begins by discusses the events that led up to the outbreak, including World War I and other mass migration events. Then he relates the efforts instituted to try to contain the epidemic, similar to some of the control measures utilized today for Coronavirus. Next, he analyzes the consequences and lessons learned from the pandemic. Lastly, he evaluates the societal responses to the 1918 flu in comparison to the current outbreak.

Milestones in Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 19:28:19 +0000

Dr. Singh highlights several areas of historical infectious diseases milestones in the categories of antibiotics, germ theory sanitation, oral hydration therapy, tissue culture, and vaccines. For antibiotics, he discusses the development of Penicillin; for germ theory, he relates the contributions of infection pioneers like Ernest Koch, Ignaz Semmelweis, and Joseph Lister. The invention of sanitation techniques did more to reduce public mortality from deadly diseases than perhaps any other advancement of the 19th and early twentieth centuries, and this is discussed. Lastly, Dr. Singh acknowledges the contributions of Louis Pasteur in modern virology and the development of vaccines. From a lecture recorded in February, 2020.

Urinary Tract Infections: Learning Through Three Cases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 05 Feb 2020 17:58:29 +0000

Dr. Olga Klinkova reviews the definitions and common facts regarding urinary tract infections. She differentiates between complicated and uncomplicated UTIs, upper and lower tract urinary tract infections, as well as the clinical features of pyelonephritis. She also discusses the management of MDRO-related urinary tract infections. The lecture is presented in a case-based format to help the learner improve their management skills through the discussion of typical patient-based scenarios.

Current Immunization Practice: The Role of Adult Vaccination

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 27 Jan 2020 17:07:01 +0000

Dr. Toney presents an overview of adult vaccinations, focusing on the vaccines that are most important and relevant for the adult patient. He begins by discussing pneumococcal vaccines, whose guidelines can often be confusing because of the two different types of vaccines and their distinct administration schedules. He next talks about the influenza vaccine, differentiating the different types of vaccines, the efficacy of the flu shot, and potential future flu vaccine products. Next, he discusses the TDAP and the importance of receiving this vaccine given waning adult immunity for Pertussis. Dr. Toney also touches upon Shingles immunization and the significant advance of the recombinent shingles vaccine that is now available. Lastly, he discusses the MMR, Meningococcus, and Hepatitis vaccines.

Don’t Miss It: Ambulatory Care Infectious Diseases Emergencies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 15 Jan 2020 19:16:58 +0000

Dr. Toney, Professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of South Florida, conducts a case-based discussion regarding Infectious diseases syndromes for which it is essential that a provider not miss the diagnosis in an ambulatory care setting. Dr. Toney initiates each case by presenting a case, then providing choices of possible answers, followed by clinical pearls relevant to the case. At the conclusion of this informative and interactive presentation, it is hoped that the audience will have a greater understanding of several critical ID ambulatory care emergencies that every provider needs to recognize.

Clinical Review of Three BMT Cases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 20:42:03 +0000

Dr. Aliyah Baluch, Chief BMT ID clinician at the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute reviews 3 interesting BMT-related ID cases and offers insights into their management. From a lecture originally recorded in December, 2019.

Navigating Beta-Lactam Allergies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 22 Nov 2019 20:15:42 +0000

Dr. Ward begins her presentation by reviewing the impact of beta-lactam allergies on the healthcare system. She then discusses the classification system for the different types of hypersensitivity reactions. The significance of beta-lactam allergy cross reactivity is then mentioned. She goes on to explain how beta-lactam allergy testing is performed. Lastly, she identifies strategies to improve the documentation of beta-lactam allergy reporting.

Emerging Infections: Sexually Transmitted Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 15 Nov 2019 21:19:08 +0000

Dr. Kami Kim, Chief of Infectious Diseases at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, discusses an important subset of emerging infections: sexually transmitted diseases (STIs). She initially reviews the current epidemiology of STIs in the U.S. She differentiates the more common and less common STIs. She goes on to discuss risk factors for sexually transmitted infections. She focuses on Neisseria gonorrhea infections, and discusses epidemiology, drug resistance, and treatment changes. She closes by sharing information on the diverse syndromes associated with Chlamydia trachomatis, including genital ulcer disease, urethritis, and cervicitis, extragenital infections, and pelvic inflammatory disease, and shares general treatment strategies and pitfalls.

Community Acquired Pneumonia: Update on Diagnosis and Management

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 30 Oct 2019 16:25:14 +0000

Dr. Olga Klinkova, Infectious Diseases Clinician at the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, discusses the recent updates to the diagnosis and management of community acquired pneumonia. Dr. Klinkova begins her talk by referring to the recently introduced IDSA-ATS guidelines, released in August, 2019. She then discusses updates in the microbiology of CAP, including the most likely organisms, the role of MRSA, atypicals and the significance of viral pathogens. She then mentions diagnostic modalities and the relevance of clinical prediction algorithms such as CURB-65 and the Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI). Treament considerations including outpatient versus inpatient, and inpatient non-severe versus inpatient severe management are also differentiated. Specific treatment agents and therapy durations are also mentioned. Lastly, she discusses options for the management of MRSA pneumonia and aspiration syndromes.

Future Diagnostics in Tuberculosis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 15 Oct 2019 17:54:39 +0000

Dr. Ju Hee Katzman begins her lecture by discussing some basic epidemiology of Tuberculosis, a major killer worldwide and still a significant infectious cause of mobility in the U.S. Dr. Katzman reviews the traditional diagnostic modalities for diagnosing TB (including expectorated sputum samples for smear and culture). She then goes on to discuss specific molecular techniques for diagnosing TB that will play an increasingly larger role in the future. Lastly, she touches upon the ways in which AI (Artificial Intelligence) can be utilized to detect and treat active tuberculosis in settings where health provider availability is greatly challenged.

New Antimicrobials for Multidrug Resistant Organisms

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 20:22:51 +0000

Dr. Bachmeier presents an up-to-date review of newer-generation antimicrobials designed to be effective against infections with multiple drug-resistant pathogens. He first reviews the different types of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) resistance. He then discusses the significance of Carbapenemase-producing enterobacteriaceae and ESBL producing E coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Such organisms have become increased threats to our patients over the last two decades while new drug approvals have dwindled. Dr. Bachmeier reviews Ceftolozane-tazobactam, Ceftazidime-avibactam and their current indications. He then reviews Meropenem-vaborbactam and its utility in the treatment of Klebsiella pneumonia carbabenemase (KPC) infections. He then discusses imipenem-relebactam and its advantages in the treatment of MDR gram-negative infections. Lastly, he reviews plazomycin, eravacycline, and Cefiderocol.

Infectious Diseases: Evolution, Revolution, Heresy, Enlightenment?

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 19:00:02 +0000

Dr. Sinnott’s grand rounds presentation reflects upon the history of infectious diseases, from the late 1960’s, when the battle with infectious agents was felt to have been won, to the present age of widespread antimicrobial resistance, emerging pathogens, and the newer therapies of the “post-antibiotic era.” He focuses on genetic susceptibility, and how this has played a major role in infectious diseases outbreaks of the past. He also touches upon commercial “boutique” genetics services which offer to sequence an individual’s genome for ancestry and hereditary purposes. Lastly, he comments on the importance of the human microbiome to disease susceptibility and wellness.

Drugs & Bugs: Complications of Addictive Disorders

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 20:55:18 +0000

Dr. Nguyen examines the complex problem of the addiction crisis, a major cause of morbidity and death in much of the US, and especially in the state of Florida. He first discusses the epidemiology of addictive disorders and the US states where these patients are more likely to be found. He then discusses specific addiction-related medical syndromes, including acute eosinophilic pneumonia, crack cocaine lung, complications of body packing, fungal sinusitis, endocarditis, skin and soft tissue infections, fungal pneumonia, and other septic complications of injection drug use

Difficult Cases in ID: Fascinoma Edition

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 06 Aug 2019 15:33:41 +0000

Dr. Oehler discusses three fascinating patients from his archives involving cases that were good enough to publish in medical journals. He first discusses a 59 year old patient with a fever, headache, and a lytic bone infection. He next reviews a 49 year old homeless man with an aquatic cellulitis and an unusual bacteremia. Lastly, he shares the history on a 50 year old patient with acute graft thrombosis after eating at a mexican restaurant. In the process of discussing these cases, Dr. Oehler discusses the differential diagnosis of these presentations and the unusual syndromes that form the ultimate diagnoses.

Apocalyptic Scenarios and Infectious Disease

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 08 Jul 2019 15:22:48 +0000

Dr. Lopez-Perez examines the infectious diseases syndromes that via bioterrorism and natural outbreaks could be responsible for “end of the world” scenarios. He initially focuses on agents of bioterrorism, including Anthrax, Smallpox, Plague, Tularemia and Botulism. He then goes on to discuss the threat posed by pandemic influenza. He also touches upon the possibility of genetically engineered pandemics, in which techniques such as “CRISPR” could be used to create “designer organisms” or to replicate or modify already fearsome pathogens (such as influenza or smallpox) with devastating results.

CAR-T Therapy: A Burgeoning New Cancer Treatment

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 24 May 2019 18:59:29 +0000

Dr. Kraitman reviews the chronology of cancer treatment history, beginning with the dawn of cancer surgery and progressing through radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and ultimately, gene therapy. He then explains the basics of Chimeric Antigen Recepter T Cell therapy, a new state of the art therapy utilizing targeted T cells to destroy specific cancer cells. Dr. Kraitman then discusses potential toxicities of CART therapy, including neurotoxicty, Cytokine release syndrome, and HLH, and approaches to manage these adverse effects. Lastly, the speaker discusses infections associated with CAR-T therapy, including bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens from a clinical series.

Tickborne Diseases: A Rising Concern

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 17 May 2019 20:41:44 +0000

Dr. Sabapathy reviews the epidemiology of tick-borne diseases. She discusses the common identification techniques for the various tick species. She compares and contrasts Lyme disease versus Southern Tick-associated Rash Illness (STARI). She also draws a distinction between Lyme and Borrellia myamotoi. Lastly, she discusses how climate change is increasing the prevalence and distribution of tick-associated infectious diseases.

Got Breast Milk?

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 10 May 2019 15:18:23 +0000

In this comprehensive review of breast feeding and breast milk by a physician and new mom, Dr. Asquith opens by discussing why breast feeding benefits both babies and their mothers. She relates the common reasons why some moms elect not to breast feed or stop breast feeding early. Dr. Asquith then shares data on the epidemiology of breast feeding by across the country. Next, she mentions the typical schedule for a breast feeding mom and essential care steps to ensure proper hygiene for breast feeding equipment. Dr. Asquith then dives deeper into some of the immunological and anti-infective benefits of nursing. She then shares information on the safety of nursing when a mom is sick with infectious syndromes like the Flu, travelers diarrhea, HSV and Zika virus. She closes by touching on milk banking and human milk pasteurization.

Infections Associated with Biologic Therapies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 13:59:21 +0000

Dr. Klinkova reviews the general types of biologic agents available for patients today and their classification system. She focuses specifically on Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-alpha) inhibitors. Dr. Klinkova extensively reviews their noninfectious and infectious adverse effects. Among the infectious complications, mycobacterial disease is among the most significant, and she reviews risk factors, screening, and prevention. Lastly, Dr. Klinkova reviews bacterial and viral complications of TNF agents, and closes by mentioning anti-integrin and anti-IL 12/23 agents.

Exposures Associated with Large Animal Bites

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 16 Apr 2019 16:50:56 +0000

Dr. Garcia takes a close look at how large animal bites of can cause significant morbidity to human victims. She first reviews exposures due to large cats, including lions and tigers. She then discusses bites due to bears. Next, she discusses exposures due to reptiles, including venomous snakes. She emphasizes the knowledge and tools that infectious diseases specialists and patients need to know to prevent exposures and to treat them after they occur.

Pro-Cons-itonin: The Advantages and Disadvantages of Procalcitonin-based Therapy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 05 Apr 2019 19:20:33 +0000

Dr. Gllava reviews the value of the procalcitonin laboratory test as an inflammatory marker useful in making treatment decisions in infectious diseases patients. First, she introduces the idea of a biomarker: a laboratory assay that is useful in detecting inflammatory states. She then explains the advantages and disadvantages of procalcitonin as an ideal biomarker. Dr. Gllava goes on to describe the current recommendations for the use of procalcitonin in specific infectious conditions and reviews the body of scientific evidence for its use. Lastly, she reviews how hospitals can utilize procalcitonin-based algorithms to improve clinical care and promote antimicrobial stewardship.

A Brief History of HIV: Then and Now

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 27 Feb 2019 19:00:03 +0000

Dr. Moore Pardo’s comprehensive timeline of HIV and AIDS spans the last 40 years of the history of HIV infection. She covers the important decade of the 1980’s, when the epidemic was first recognized, the virus identified, and public awareness of the syndrome was heightened by the deaths of celebrities such as Rock Hudson. She then discusses drug development and the age of HAART in the 1990s. The decade of the 2000s focused upon access to care and curbing the epidemic on an international scale with programs like PEPFAR and private philanthropy initiatives. She closes by looking at where we are in the HIV epidemic over the last decade as the medical community begins to discuss a possible end to new cases of HIV in the US by 2030.

Infections of CSF Shunts and Other CSF Devices

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 17:51:07 +0000

Dr. Klinkova reviews CSF device-associated infections, an important potential source of morbidity for neurosurgical patients. She first discusses risk factors, and then transitions to discuss the pathogenesis and microbiology of shunt infections. Next, she reviews the typical clinical presentation of patients who present with the syndrome, and then discusses diagnostic pearls for identifying patients with CSF device infections. She then reviews the management of these patients including the principles of antibiotic selection. Lastly, Dr. Klinkova covers CSF device-associated infection prophylaxis.

Hepatitis C Boot Camp 1: Pathogenesis, Epidemiology, and Treatment Guidelines

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 17:57:11 +0000

Medical and Diagnostic Mycobacteriology of Importance to the Clinician and Pathologist

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 19:37:58 +0000

Dr. Sandin provides a general overview of identification techniques for Mycobacterial organisms. He discusses and outlines classification systems for the Mycobacteria that are human pathogens. He then discusses laboratory stains that are useful in identifying Mycobacteria and reviews other diagnostic methods which have become essential to Mycobacterial species identification, including the various nucleic amplification-based methods. Various pathology pearls of Mycobacterial identification are also mentioned. Lastly, he discusses two clinical cases involving acid fast organisms.

Dates in Infectious Diseases: Ancient History Edition

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 21:22:30 +0000

Dr. Oehler conducts a lively quiz session regarding infectious diseases historical figures and events dating from 600 BC to 1900. In this fast paced and humorous podcast, listeners are exposed to the accomplishments of infectious disease titans such as Hippocrates, Anton Van Leewenhoek, Ignaz Semmelweis, and John Snow. After listening to this podcast, participants will have a much broader sense of the legacy of infectious diseases history as well as some other fascinating trivia that will entertain and amaze!

To enjoy the companion lecture to this one regarding 20th Century ID events, please watch this presentation:

https://idpodcasts.net/podcasts/dates-in-id-20th-century-edition/

Understanding Military MSMs: STI, PrEP, and ID Care in your Medical Practice

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 17:09:14 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano reviews sexually transmitted infections among MSMs (men who have sex with men). She discusses current sexually transmitted infection screening, testing, and treatment guidelines for the group. The use of preexposure prophylaxis for MSMs is also introduced, and includes information on eligibility and an implementation strategy for patients. Lastly, Dr. Morano touches upon HIV screening and rapid treatment approaches to care.

Meeting the Resistance Movement, Up Close and Personal: Understanding HIV Resistance

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 20:08:56 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano reviews HIV infection. She starts out by presenting up to date statistics about the current epidemiology of HIV infection across the US and Florida. She then goes on to discuss the HIV life cycle, and how various antiretroviral treatments appear to interact with the virus at different points of the viral reproductive process. HIV resistance mechanisms are also addressed. Lastly, she shares her recommendations on strategies useful to selecting an ideal antiretroviral regimen for an HIV positive patient.

Invasive Fungal Infections in the Immunosuppressed

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 19 Oct 2018 15:05:59 +0000

Dr. Baluch reviews the topic of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in individuals who undergo hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCST). The author begins by reviewing risk factors for IFIs. She then discusses what constitutes an IFI. She differentiates infections caused by yeasts versus those due to molds, and discusses the assessment and management of invasive candida disease. Next, Dr. Baluch discusses non candida molds, including aspergillus, fusarium, and Mucor as well as atypical pathogens such as Pneumocystis. She closes with a discussion of antifungal therapy and what constitutes the ideal fungal agent.

Antimicrobial Drug Interactions

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 09 Oct 2018 18:36:21 +0000

Dr. Ward reviews basic concepts about antimicrobial drug interactions. She begins by discussing the basic classification scheme, and then moves on to discuss several commonly recognized adverse drug interactions, as well as some that are commonly forgotten. She also reviews the topic of QT drug prolongation, the interaction between daptomycin and statins, as well as the most relevant azole interactions. She reviews serotonergic interactions, especially with linezolid. Lastly, she reviews the interaction between valproic acid and carbapenems. And the best reference sources for reviewing adverse drug interactions with antimicrobials are also discussed.

Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 30 Aug 2018 18:43:12 +0000

Dr. Chugtai reviews the family of Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers. He starts out by discussing transmission factors and major common symptoms for the class of disorders. He then covers the Bunyaviridae, including Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome and Rift Valley Fever. Dr. Chugtai then mentions the hemorrhagic fevers, including Ebola and Marburg viruses. Other hemorrhagic fevers dicussed includes Nipah virus disease and Hendra virus disease. Lastly, he discusses the flaviviruses, including Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE).

Infections of Intravascular Catheters

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 19:07:42 +0000

In this updated talk, Dr. Oehler discusses the assessment and management of infections of central catheters. Dr. Oehler begins his talk by covering the epidemiology of central line infections, including the most common organisms involved, and covers the different types of intravascular devices. He then discusses the mechanisms by which central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI’s) occur, differentiating hematogenous, hub-related, entry site, and infusate-related etiologies. He also covers infection risk factors, the diagnostic workup, and under what circumstances device removal is necessary. Infection management in the context of specific pathogens is also addressed. Furthermore, Dr. Oehler discusses the concept of antibiotic lock therapy and how it can be an adjunctive management strategy. Lastly, Dr. Oehler differentiates between insertion site and exit site infections where they relate to tunneled catheters and offers a summary of the 5 most effective approaches to reducing CLABSIs in the hospital setting.

Infections in Pregnancy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 14:09:16 +0000

Dr. Kraitman reviews the management and treatment of infections occurring in the pregnant female. He initially reviews medication pregnancy risk categories, and then through interactive case review, goes over several examples where antimicrobial agents are used that are contraindicated in pregnancy. He reviews interactions relevant to HIV/AIDS, AIDS associated opportunistic infections, Tuberculosis, Malaria, CMV, Syphilis, and Listeria. He closes by providing information on useful reference resources for managing infections in pregnancy.

The Host with the Most

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 20:18:12 +0000

The relationship between genetics and infectious diseases is explored. Dr. Akoghlanian also discusses the immune system’s innate and adaptive components, and presents pathogen-host interactions at different levels of the immune system. Lastly, the major types of iatrogenic, acquired, and genetic immune deficiencies are presented, including IgA deficiency, Common variable immhunodeficiency, terminal complement deficiency, MPO deficiency, Chediak-Higashi syndrome, CGD, and others.

Fever in the Burn Patient

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 01 Jun 2018 14:28:07 +0000

Dr. Lakshmi discusses the infectious evaluation of burn patients. She relates the common sources of fever, the principles of burn management, and both common and uncommon infections in the burn victim. Lastly, she mentions other infectious conditions not directly related to the burn exposure that must also be considered.

Inflammatory Markers as A Decision Support Tool in Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 23 May 2018 15:41:55 +0000

Dr. Addisu looks at inflammation, and how it can be used as a marker of certain physiologic processes such as infection. He then differentiates the different types of acute phase reactants that are well-described markers of inflammation. He focuses upon the two most widely used markers, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and the C-reactive protein, and compares and contrasts the two. Next, he discusses the procalcitinin and the white blood cell (WBC) count. He closes by contrasting the activity of different inflammatory markers (IM’s) in infectious syndromes such as sepsis and endocarditis, and briefly touches upon several novel assays which show promise as IM’s of the future.

Zoonoses and Globalization

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 07 May 2018 14:48:46 +0000

In the midst of the 2019-2020 Coronavirus pandemic, the concept of “zoonotic” infections–and how previously unknown diseases can transfer from the animal kingdom to humans–is facing more attention than ever. In this spirit, we present this encore lecture originally presented by Dr. Mindy Sampson in 2018. Dr. Sampson looks at the underlying features of a zoonotic disease. She then discusses how increasing globalization has interwoven with zoonoses to produce widespread outbreaks of Yellow fever, SARS, Nipah Virus, and Ebola virus disease. Among the most notable of the Zoonotic diseases of the last several decades is HIV, and she presents a fascinating review of how this retrovirus originated from primates and then spread around the world in only a relatively short period of time. She also recounts the 1918 Spanish Influenza pandemic and the factors that led it to spread around the world in just a few months.

Social Stewardship

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 16:58:10 +0000

Drawing inspiration from sessions she attended at IDWeek 2017, Dr. Fredenrich discusses the sociological aspects of antimicrobial stewardship, including the strategies that can be employed to change the prescribing habits of frontline clinicians. She discusses the social determinants of antibiotic prescribing, such as clinician-clinician relationships, patient expectations, fear of adverse consequences, and other pressures. Dr. Fredenrich also discusses everyday barriers, such as trust-building and knowledge sharing that can improve the overall success of an antibiotic stewardship program.

Fundamental Concepts of Study Design

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 18:59:19 +0000

Dr. Kumar relates some of the basic concepts behind medical study design, enabling the listener to utilize simple tools to be able to review the medical literature with a critical eye. He also addresses the question, “What constitutes BEST evidence?” Dr. Kumar also reviews basic statistical concepts, including prevalence/pre-test probability, sensitivity and specificity, negative and positive predictive value, likelihood ratios, and post-test probability. The talk is a very easily understandable and relatable discussion of evidence-based medicine.

Antibiotic Stewardship and Superbugs

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 20:17:56 +0000

Dr. Daniel Haight, Associate Professor at the USF College of Medicine, and Vice President of Community Health with Lakeland Regional Health, presents a primer on ways to foster and enhance antibiotic stewardship efforts in your hospital or health care system. Presented to the northern Iceland clinics and hospital in Akureyri, Iceland in April, 2018. The presentation features English narration with Icelandic/English slide content. Part of IDPodcast’s international podcast series.

Pneumocystis Jirovecii Pneumonia (PCP): The Non-HIV-infected Patients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 18:21:46 +0000

Dr. Pasikhova discusses the history of the Pneumocystis pathogen, its epidemiology, and how it is transmitted to patients. She also discusses the pathophysiology of the infection in the context of the immunocompromised cancer patient. The role of steroids in the aquisition of PJP infection is touched upon. Lastly, Dr. Pasikhova describes prophylaxis against Pneumocystis, including specific agents and their usual doses.

Infections After Natural Disasters

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 21:30:03 +0000

Dr. Pardo discusses the natural association of infections and natural disasters. She reflects upon events of recent history, including the 2017 hurricanes affecting Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and the southeastern US, outbreaks after earthquakes, tornados and tsunamis. She also touches upon vector-borne diseases. Lastly, she discusses ways that infectious diseases can be prevented after natural disasters occur.

HIV Boot Camp IV: PREP for All Occasions

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 18:47:46 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano reviews pre-exposure prophylaxis for high-risk HIV-related exposures. She provides justification for its efficacy, its criteria for use, as well as its use in selective patient groups (e.g., heterosexuals, MSMs, serodiscordant couples, substance users). She reviews the CDC guidelines for PREP and reviews a Florida Department of Health PREP action tool kit. Presented in affiliation with the Florida Department of Health. Part IV of a four-part series.

HIV Boot Camp III: Undetectability = Untransmissability

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 18:41:17 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano discusses the U equals U campaign to reduce the transmissibility of human immunodeficiency virus infections by ensuring that individuals at high risk for transmission receive treatment. This has been proven to have the greatest impact in reducing to transmission of the virus to both monogamous and non-monogamous partners. This is part III in a four part series, entitled, HIV Boot Camp

Infectious Diseases Mimics and Fever

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 20 Feb 2018 17:12:10 +0000

Dr. Syed focuses on the diagnostic sign of fever and the ways that non-infectious factors can induce the febrile response. Dr. Syed covers neoplastic fever, central fever, neurogenic fever, autonomic dysreflexia, drug fever, periodic fever, Familial Mediterranean Fever, TRAPS, and some other less common syndromes. Dr Syed also touches on the history of how the “normal” temperature for average individuals was calculated.

Antibiotics: Just In Case

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 22:32:04 +0000

Have you ever taken an antibiotic “just-in-case” there might be an infection and thought antibiotics are “risk-free” drugs? Prescribing antibiotics “just-in-case” carries the risk of creating superbugs that can be resistant to every antibiotic. The overuse of antibiotics in humans and animals today means untreatable infections tomorrow. Dr. Debbie Goff pharmacist, global antibiotic steward and advocate describes how consumers and patients need to become antibiotic stewards. It is no longer just up to medical professionals. Our children’s children depend on getting everyone engaged in antibiotic stewardship. Debbie Goff Pharm.D. is an internationally renowned infectious diseases clinical pharmacist who works hand in hand with physicians and pharmacists in hospitals across six continents advocating for the responsible use of antibiotics through antibiotic stewardship. From a TedRx Columbus talk originally presented in December, 2016. Reposted with permission of the author. An IDPodcasts.net guest presentation available on our web site exclusively.

All Guts and No Glory: A Review of the Human Microbiome and Dysbiosis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 16:10:25 +0000

Dr. Tiffany Ward Looks at the ways that medical science is working to understand the significance of the human microbiome (HM), that is, the collection of all of the microorganisms that are living in association with the human body. The HM can be affected in many different ways, a phenomenon known as dysbiosis. Some of the most significant inducers of dysbiosis are diet and antimicrobial exposure. Both of these can be more closely associated than they may seem. Dr. Ward shares her perspective regarding interventions that can protect the integrity of the human microbiome, including diet, a reduction in the usage of antibiotics in the food industry, the use of probiotics, antimicrobial stewardship, and several other specific interventions.

Bacteriophages

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 29 Jan 2018 20:31:25 +0000

Dr. Pettigrew discusses the emerging therapeutic science of bacteriophages, viruses that infect and replicate within bacteria. Although these organisms have been utilized as antibacterial therapies for decades in some regions of the world, they are relatively unknown in western medicine. They may show promise in the treatment of resistant bacteria, as alternatives to antimicrobial compounds, in the preservation and sterilization of food products, in the defense against bioweapons and in environmental antisepsis.

Prosthetic Joint Infection

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 15:48:09 +0000

Dr. So reviews prosthetic joint infections, focusing on epidemiology, risk factors, classification, pathogenesis, and responsible microorganisms. The also discusses pre-operative evaluation. She touches upon the distinction between operative strategies, including singe stage and two stage procedures. Lastly, she discusses prevention in these patients.

Diagnostics in Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 01 Dec 2017 19:47:52 +0000

Dr. Akoghlanian reviews several modern studies useful in the diagnosis of infectious diseases. In addition to blood cultures, Dr. Akoghlanian discusses urinary antigens, PCR/NAAT assays, multiplex panels, and Maldi-Tof/Mass Spectroscopy. Dr. Akoghlanian also speculates on future developments in infectious diseases diagnostics.

Beta Lactam Allergy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 20:04:48 +0000

Dr. So reviews the phenomenon of beta lactam hypersensitivity. She discusses the different types of drug hypersensitivity, explains the risks for cross-reactivity between beta-lactams, touches upon strategies to avoid adverse drug reactions, and reviews penicillin and cephalosporin allergy testing. She closes by mentioning the ways that antimicrobial stewardship programs can address drug allergies.

The Sixth Extinction: Infectious Diseases Implications

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 20:38:10 +0000

Dr. Toney discusses the phenomenon of mass extinctions occuring over the history of life on our planet, and how it is believed we are currently in the sixth worldwide extinction. He speculates on its relevance in the context of human pathogens such as Clostridium difficile, multidrug resistant gram negative enteric bacteria, and on the persistance of gut microbiota. He closes by discussing potential future therapies for human diseases given the waning antimicrobial agent options we currently have to treat them.

Infectious Diseases Discoveries of Historical Importance

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 20:46:54 +0000

Dr. Adam Pettigrew takes us on a journey through the history of infectious diseases discovery. Starting off in ancient Greece, he then catapults forward into the renaissance and then on to the 19th and 20th centuries to understand where the modern practice of infectious diseases originated.

Climate Change and Infectious Diseases: A Decade Later

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 20:50:13 +0000

Dr. Manuel Castro presents an update on the effects that climate change is having on infectious diseases as we approach the end of the second decade of the new millennium. He covers the impact that a warming climate is having on ecosystems that breed infectious pathogens as well as the vectors that carry them.

Neutropenic Fever in the 21st Century

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 01 Aug 2017 21:02:49 +0000

Dr. Quilitz discusses the risk factors behind neutropenic fever. He then discusses prominent bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens which cause infections in the immunocompromised cancer patient. Lastly, he discusses antimicrobial options to prevent or treat opportunistic infections in these patients.

Pneumonia Patterns

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 21:03:49 +0000

Dr. John Greene discusses different patterns of consolidation visible on lung imaging and the differential diagnosis for pneumonia in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. He reviews CT imaging for ground glass opacities, consolidation, nodular opacities, and nodular cavitary lesions on the lungs. He covers interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, community acquired viral and bacterial pneumonia, fungal infections, and mycobacterial infections among others. He specifically discusses nocardia, mycobacterium avium complex and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. He then covers several cases studies and management strategies. His updated talk was originally presented in 2013.

Bugs, Drugs, and Stem Cells

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 21:07:33 +0000

Dr. Baluch introduces the audience to to concept of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. She discusses the timeline for infections and the tools for their work-up, including antimicrobial drugs. She also reviews the current paradigm for the work-up of neutropenic fever, and the treatment of “common” ID issues. Lastly, she discusses useful infectious diseases resources for the clinician.

Infectious Diseases Emergencies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 21:10:56 +0000

Dr. Syed discusses various infectious diseases syndromes that are “emergencies,” i.e., require urgent intervention. Among those discussed include fulminant meningococcal disease, viral hemorrhagic fever, SARS, MERS, Anthrax, Plague, Tularemia, and other agents of bioterroism.

Fever Patterns and Infection

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 21:14:28 +0000

Dr. Pandya reviews the relationship between fever and infection, including fever classifications, various fever patterns, fever severity, and fevers associated with specific conditions.

Smallpox and other Orthopoxviruses

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 15:41:11 +0000

From 2017: In 2020, the SARS-2 Coronavirus proved to have the right combination of lethality and contagiousness to be a devastating once in a century worldwide pandemic affecting millions of people and causing hundreds of thousands of deaths. But amongst the great plagues of mankind, there is only one that stands head and shoulders above the rest:

Smallpox is responsible for the deaths of millions in the 20th Century alone. From the Antonine Plague of the Roman Empire to the devastating outbreaks brought on by new world colonization of the 16th through 19th centuries, Smallpox devastated countless communities across the millennia.

In one of the great medical accomplishments of history, and due in large part to the development of a Smallpox vaccine by Edward Jenner in 1796, it was successfully declared eradicated in 1980.

Dr. Castro reviews orthopoxviruses with a focus on the history of Smallpox, including its history, clinical presentation, vaccination, treatment, and the potential for bioterrorism.

Emerging Arboviruses: What’s After Zika?

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 15:44:18 +0000

Dr. Marijesmar Gonzalez discusses the latest updates for Zika Virus for the 2017 Zika season. She also reviews other arbovirus infections of similar importance, including Chikungunya, Dengue, Mayaro, and Usutu viruses.

Pneumonia in the Immunocompromised Host, Part II

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Sat, 08 Apr 2017 16:07:37 +0000

Dr. Greene discusses the morphology of lung infections in the immunocompromised host. Infections covered include invasive aspergillosis, mucormycosis, nocardiosis, legionella, and nontuberculous mycobacterial infections.

HIV Boot Camp, Part II

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 16:27:06 +0000

Dr. Morano discusses the initial work-up and evaluation of the HIV positive patient. The second of two parts.

HIV Boot Camp, Part I

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 06 Apr 2017 16:20:58 +0000

Dr. Morano discusses the initial work-up and evaluation of the HIV positive patient. The first of two parts.

Bartonellosis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 16:11:30 +0000

Dr Antoneh Addisu describes the history and taxonomy of Bartonella species, including basic microbiology of this important organism. He differentiates between the major syndromes caused by Bartonella organisms and associates them with specific species. Diagnostic considerations are also discussed. A more obscure manifestation of Bartonella infection is culture negative endocarditis, which is also reviewed. Lastly, the speaker discusses therapy for Bartonella infections.

STD Update for 2017 (Florida)

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 16:37:34 +0000

Dr. Maria L Alcaide, Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, presents an update on sexually transmitted diseases with a emphasis on the state of Florida. She focuses on recent epidemiology, specific syndromes including syphilis, urethritis and the genital ulcer diseases, as well as HIV-STD interactions.

Invasive Fungal Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Sun, 29 Jan 2017 14:46:39 +0000

Dr. Rod Quilitz, ID clinical pharmacist and Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, discusses the Moffitt approach to the identification, assessment, and management of invasive fungal infections in the immunocompromised host.

Flu Update 2016-7

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 13 Jan 2017 16:52:57 +0000

Dr. Cheung reviews important concepts about the current flu season with regard to current influenza epidemiology, prevention, influenza vaccination, prophylaxis, and treatment.

Antibiotic Stewardship in Oncologic Care

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 21 Nov 2016 16:56:55 +0000

Dr. Baluch covers the necessary steps to establish and conduct a successful antibiotic stewardship program in an oncology hospital. She covers population specific factors in the immunocompromised population, laboratory diagnostic resources, core elements, recruiting necessary personnel for the ASP team, and how to be compliant with accreditation standards.

The Role of Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole in the Treatment of Nocardiosis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 08 Nov 2016 17:35:01 +0000

Dr. Yanina Pasikhova discusses the use of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxasole in the treatment of Nocardiosis in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients. She utilizes a case-based format to highlight the typical risk factors, presentation, and management of nocardia disease in at-risk patients.

Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria Update

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 25 Oct 2016 17:40:25 +0000

Dr. Oehler discusses the epidemiology, assessment, clinical diagnosis, and therapeutic and supportive management of nontuberculous mycobacteria infections. The importance of bronchial hygiene and secretion clearance mechanisms is also discussed.

Mycology Papers Update for 2016

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 04 Oct 2016 17:44:02 +0000

Dr. Wonhee So, ID clinical Pharmacist at Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, presents several important recent papers in the field of fungal infection diagnosis and management, and offers clinical commentary on their significance to the practice of infectious diseases in the immunocompromised patient. Dr. So covers such topics as the use of dexamethasone in the treatment of cryptococcal meningitis, the radiologic diagnosis of lung mould infections in AML, the use of Isuvaconazole in Mucor infections, and the use of combination anti fungal therapy.

Update of Zika Virus in the U.S.

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 19 Aug 2016 17:52:30 +0000

Clinician experts from USF Health and from the Gorgas Institute in Panama update the audience on the latest cases of Zika virus in the US, including the cluster of cases found in the Wynwood section of Miami, as of August 18, 2016.

Pre-travel counseling and Interventions

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 14:39:59 +0000

Dr. Joseph Paruolo’s talk discusses how health care providers can best advise their patients on safe preparations for travel overseas. Dr. Paruolo covers topics such as travel accidents, vaccine-preventable inrfections, traveller’s diarrhea, malaria prophylaxis, and where a patient can find free resources for ansering any other travel-related questions.

Adverse Drug Reactions

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 12 Aug 2016 15:21:46 +0000

Dr. Kelly Kynaston discusses how clinicians can incorporate basic knowledge about adverse drug reactions (ADRs) into their practice in a systematic way. She also provides several clinical case studies demonstrating the practical application of sensible management principles for handling ADRs in susceptible patients.

The Changing Face of MRSA: Considerations for Optimizing Patient Outcomes

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 15:38:12 +0000

In this insightful update, Dr. Wonhee So updates the audience on the current epidemiology of MRSA infections and describes the pathogenesis mechanisms. She also reviews resistance mechanisms and concludes by discussing current treatment options for the infection.

Anal Cancer in HIV Positive MSMs

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 06 May 2016 15:43:11 +0000

Dr. Castro reviews the epidemiology of anal squamous cell carcinoma, a significant malignancy in HIV positive men who have sex with men (MSMs). He also reviews risk factors, classification systems, the disease’s association with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), screening strategies, and management after diagnosis

Infections Associated with Freshwater and Saltwater Exposure

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 15:46:58 +0000

The specific infections associated with aquatic activity are reviewed and explored. Examples include Vibrio vulnificus, Mycobacterium marinum, Plesiomonas, Aeromonas, Cnidarial Seabather’s eruption, Lobomycosis, and others. Risk factors, clinical manifestations, and treatment are also reviewed.

Using Echocardiography in Staphylococcus Aureus Bacteremia

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 12 Apr 2016 20:55:58 +0000

In this video podcast, the role of echocardiography in the management of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia is explored. Issues discussed include epidemiology, current guidelines, published clinical prediction rules, and the role of TEE in high risk groups.

Top Ten Lesser Known Contemporary Outbreaks

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 21:01:41 +0000

In a question and answer format, Dr. Oehler covers 10 recent outbreaks that are lesser known, either because of their regional nature, small number of cases, or simply because they lack a well-known champion. Examples of these include the Heartland virus, Australian Bat Lyssavirus, and Enterovirus 068.

Zika and Emerging Arboviruses in the Americas

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 21:09:50 +0000

Dr. Sandra Gompf highlights the recent emergence of several mosquito-borne arboviruses in the Caribbean and South American continent, including Dengue virus, Chikungunya, and Zika virus. In particular, she examines Zika and the factors responsible for its development on our continent. Dr. Gompf also discusses Zika epidemiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, treatment, and prevention.

Cholera

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 21:16:43 +0000

In this informative presentation, Dr. Manuel Castro discusses the epidemiology, clinical features, and management of Cholera infections. Dr. Castro also discusses the factors behind recent worldwide cholera outbreaks, such as the cholera outbreak occurring after the 2010 Haitian earthquake.

HIV and Malignancy: Understanding Oncogenesis in the Age of ART

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 14:44:52 +0000

In this presentation, Dr. Morano Discusses current HIV epidemiology, HIV impact on oncogenesis, and the relationship between HIV/HCV coinfection and hepatocellular carcinoma. She also covers the newest ART recommendations.

A Primer on Respiratory Infections in the Immunosuppressed

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 14:51:17 +0000

Immunocompromised patients undergoing stem cell transplant are at significant risk of opportunistic and native respiratory tract pathogens. Dr. Baluch reviews essential information related to these infections in an informative slide-based presentation.

Invasive Fungal Infections in the Immunocompromised Host

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 14:56:36 +0000

Dr. Aliyah Baluch focuses on the work-up and treatment of invasive fungal infections in the immunosuppressed patients. Fungal infections have high morbidity and mortality, but can be hard to clinically diagnose. Invasive infections occur in ICU, Diabetes Mellitus, and immunocompromised patients. Dr. Baluch covers both aspects of Candida and non-Candida species infections, including risk factors, symptoms, prognosis, work-up, and treatment in patients with immunosuppressed patients. She includes a review of fungal structure and the mechanism of action of the drug classes used to treat them – Echinocandins, Polyenes, and Triazoles. She covers timelines that indicate which species to expect during each stage of immunosuppression and with different mechanisms of immunosuppression, including differences between stem cell and solid organ transplants. Biomarkers for treatment and international patterns of drug resistance are also discussed.

Overview of Bone and Joint Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 15:01:15 +0000

Yanina Pasikhova, clinical pharmacist at Moffitt Cancer Center, presents this talk about bone and joint infections – osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, prosthetic joint infection. Ms. Pasikhova goes over case studies while focusing on different organisms expected in acute vs. chronic infections, route of infections, indications for empiric treatment, and work-up for infections. Infections can occur via hematogenous spread due to risk factors like IV Drug Use, hemodialysis, or immunocompromise, or contiguous from surgery, open fractures, burns, and soft tissue infections. She discusses diagnostics, including best practices for cultures, and indications for imaging studies. Finally, she discusses treatment – while there are no official guidelines for Osteomyelitis, but historically IV antibiotics are used. She reviews the literature which compares oral and IV antibiotics and which antibiotics should be used for different infections.

International Health Care Disparities

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 14 Aug 2015 15:14:53 +0000

Dr. Pamela Noel speaks about infectious disease healthcare in Haiti, including HIV, Tuberculosis, and the effects of the recent earthquake and cholera outbreak in the setting of poverty. She touches on the structure of the country’s education and healthcare systems and economy – Haiti is the poorest nation in the Americas, with 80% of the population living under the poverty line, while 80% of the country’s college graduates leave the country. The healthcare system is mostly located in the capital city of Port-au-Prince, with most of the population having very limited access to care. Dr. Noel talks about the epidemiology behind, causes of premature deaths, HIV and TB in Haiti, as well as current and future efforts to control the infections. She goes on to speak about the damage to the infrastructure due to the 2010 Haiti Earthquake, aid efforts, and continuing aftereffects, especially the increase in MDR TB and the cholera outbreak.

New Recommendations for the Diagnosis of HIV Infection

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 15:18:51 +0000

Dr. Jennifer Tores-Velazzo does a case study about an HIV-infected patient from Brazil and reviews recommendations for the diagnosis of HIV. She touches on the differences between HIV-1 and HIV-2 viruses and their groups and subtypes – HIV-2 does not respond to NNRTI treatment. She explains the traditional direct ELISA test (Western Blot) and the 3rd and 4th generation testing done with the Sandwich ELISA method, and touches on nucleic acid amplification and immunofluorescence assays as confirmatory tests. She discusses the timeline for detection of different parameters – HIV RNA, HIV-1 p24 Antigen, and HIV Antibodies, as well, as window periods where test parameters are undetectable. She goes over the updated FDA recommended algorithm for the use of 4th generation testing for HIV infections, and their pitfalls, ending with recommendations on which tests to order to screen for HIV.

The Bug Bowl: Bacteriology Edition

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 06 Jul 2015 15:27:25 +0000

Dr. Richard Oehler reviews Bacteriology from Bailey and Scott’s Diagnostic Microbiology, 12th Edition, in a series of game-show styled questions. Play along with Dr. Oehler and colleagues and test your knowledge on prokaryotic pathogens, while learning some new Infectious Disease trivia along the way.

Chikungunya and the Tropical Americas

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 11 May 2015 15:34:54 +0000

Dr. Lysenia Mojica reviews mosquito-borne chikungunya in the Americas. Main symptoms include fever greater than 39C, severe bilateral polyarthralgias, and maculopapular rash, among several others. She also reviews atypical presentations, clinical course, sequellae (persistent arthralgias), diagnostics, differential diagnosis, work-up, and treatment. She also touches on the importance of ruling out dengue fever in the workup and treatment of chikungunya. Finally, she touches on prevention techniques to contain the spread of the virus and discusses recent cases of chikungunya in the Americas.Guest

Sepsis and Case scenarios

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 11 May 2015 15:32:05 +0000

Dr. Aliyah Baluch reviews the Surviving Sepsis Campaign, current updates on sepsis, and some cases of sepsis. Dr. Baluch goes over SIRS, sepsis, and shock criteria, epidemiology, etiology/pathophysiology, diagnosis, work-up, and both empiric and definitive treatments. She touches on toxin etiologies, risk factors for severe sepsis, including immunosuppression. Sepsis can present in various ways – ARDS, Sick Euthyroid, Delirium, Ileus, and DIC, among other systemic disorders and Dr. Baluch discusses the importance of treating the potentially fatal condition. She addresses goals of therapy by the Surviving Sepsis Campaign and the effects of the campaign.

Preventing Infectious Complications Among Hematopoietic Stem Cell TransPlant Patients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 06 May 2015 15:53:27 +0000

Dr. Mihn Ho speaks about the prevention of infection in recipients of hematopoietic stem cell transplants. He reviews the process of transplantation, sources of infection, different phases of opportunistic infections, and the indications for prophylaxis post-transplantation. He touches on the history of BMT, starting with the 1940s to modern outcomes. He then addresses infectious disease concerns regarding these patients: pre-transplant infection screening, opportunistic infections, and infection prevention.

Finding a Cure for HIV: Reservoir Eradication

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 06 May 2015 15:48:54 +0000

Dr. Joseph Paruolo discusses the HIV reservoir, patients thought to be cured, and continuing efforts to cure HIV. Reservoirs include immunological cells, the brain, retinal cells, myocytes, adipose, kidneys, GI tract, epithelium, testes – which can be difficult for ART to penetrate. He discusses measuring the reservoir and viral load in an effort to detect cure rate. To date, only one person, Timothy Brown, has been confirmed to be cured, while several others thought to be cured but who had very low viral loads due to viral reservoirs.

The History of Antibiotics: Past, Present and Future

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 06 May 2015 15:46:09 +0000

Yanina Pasikhova, PharmD, discusses the history of antimicrobial drugs and the future implications in the setting of increased antimicrobial resistance. Infectious diseases were the leading cause of death in the pre-antibiotic era – including pneumonia, TB, enteritis, and wound infections. She discusses the advent of penicillin and sulfa-antibiotics, among 14 unique classes of antibiotics during the golden age of antimicrobials. She also discusses the development of resistance early in the golden age, and increased resistance today. She tracks the etiology of resistance including antibiotic overuse and use in animal feed. She also discusses several patients who succumbed to resistant infections. Recently approved antimicrobials and their indications are also presented.

Infectious Diseases Issues Pre and Post Solid Organ Transplantation

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 16:00:21 +0000

Dr. Rachel Irby speaks about infectious disease issues in heart, liver, and kidney transplants. She emphasizes the importance of patient history, including birth, travel, vaccines, employment, and surgical history. She also speaks about infection serologies and how to treat pre-existing infections, infectious contraindications for transplant, and vaccinations.

Mosquito-Borne Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 16:03:33 +0000

Dr. Suganya Mannivannan speaks about mosquito-borne infections, including malaria, dengue, Chikungunya, Yellow Fever, West Nile Virus, Filariasis, and Encephalitis viruses. She speaks about the lifespan of malarial parasites and transmission vectors, symptoms, protective factors, and treatment. She touches on current Phase I trials for malaria vaccines. She continues on to review epidemiology, vectors, symptoms, diagnostics, and management for each infection. Mosquito attributes, including life cycles, reproduction, and feeding are discussed, as well as preventative techniques.

Infectious Endocarditis: Beyond the Guidelines

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 16:09:43 +0000

Dr. Kaley Tash speaks about the diagnostic considerations, complications, and prevention of infectious endocarditis and its complications. Echocardiogram is the mainstay of diagnosis, as diagnosis from skin and conjunctival manifestations are rare in the modern age. She touches on etiological pathogens, laboratory findings, She speaks about complications: valve perforations, abscesses, cardiac effusion, infarctions, renal abscesses and renal failure, and septic emboli to the lungs. Complications can also occur in the CNS and peripheral vascular system. IV drug users and elderly patients have the highest risk of complications and are the most difficult to treat. She touches on different options for treating these high-risk groups, including sealed PICC lines and surgical treatment.

CMV in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 30 Dec 2014 17:06:13 +0000

Dr. Cynthia Mayer speaks about the management of cytomegalovirus infection in solid organ transplant recipients. About 50% of the US population has been exposed to CMV by the time they are young adults, and it is the most common viral infection affecting solid organ transplant recipients. Dr. Mayer discusses the differences between CMV infection and CMV disease, and the importance of distinguishing the two when assessing end-organ damage. She speaks about mechanism of infection, risk assessment for donors and recipients, diagnosis, management, and prophylaxis. She also touches on the management of Ganciclovir resistant CMV.

Global Epidemiology of Childhood Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 17:28:18 +0000

Dr. Lynette Menezes speaks about the childhood infectious diseases that produce the highest global burden of disease (years of life lost due to premature death or disability). Infectious diseases cause about 40% of deaths in children under 5 years of age, many in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2010, the estimated global disease burden due to infectious diseases was 610 million disability adjusted life years. She focuses specifically on acute respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, measles, malaria, and HIV. She also discusses strategies for disease control, including handwashing and vaccination.

Medical and Diagnostic Mycology of Importance to the Clinician and the Surgical Pathologist

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 18:02:21 +0000

Dr. Ramon Sandin reviews the identification, diagnosis, and management of infectious fungi. He covers yeasts and molds that are clinically relevant to the practicing clinician, including systemic dimorphic species of Histoplasma, Blastomyces, Coccidioides, Paracoccidiodes, Sporothrix, Penicillum, and molds involved in chromoblastomycosis. He also discusses subcutaneous mycoses and opportunistic infections. He reviews laboratory diagnosis, histopathologic stains, and cultures. Affiliated with Moffitt Cancer Center, he also discusses mycoses in the setting of immunocompromise or malignancy.

Ebola Update: One Year Later

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 17:33:09 +0000

Recorded in November 2014, Dr. Vivian Vega presents an update on the 2014-2016 West African Ebola outbreak adapted for both healthcare workers and patients. She speaks about the epidemiology, clinical manifestations and the effect of the outbreak on other public health issues such as malaria and TB. She also talks about the implications of the outbreak in the global community, the possibility of pandemic spread, and reviews four patients diagnosed with Ebola in the United States. Finally, Dr. Vega discusses risk assessment for patients exposed to the virus as well as its diagnosis and management. As the last major global outbreak, a look back to 2014 adds some insight into how we are managing the current Coronavirus pandemic.

Tuberculosis and TB/HIV Interactions

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 18:09:02 +0000

Dr. Beata Casanas presents an update on the epidemiology, stages, diagnosis, and management of tuberculosis. While the absolute number of TB cases has decreased, the rate of decrease has slowed. Dr. Casanas also touches on considerations required for multi-drug resistant TB. She discusses different diagnostic tests, including PPD, sputum studies, and interferon-gamma release assays, and the differences between active and latent TB. She also discusses TB co-infection in HIV-infected patients, as both infections independently accelerate the progression of the other.

Sepsis: The Saga Continues

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 18:24:23 +0000

Dr. Toney discusses recent developments in the management and treatment of sepsis.

Transplant Infectious Diseases: Infections in Cancer Patients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 18:18:55 +0000

Dr. Aliyah Baluch, an infectious diseases physician at Moffitt Cancer center discusses common infections that affect cancer patients. She reviews epidemiology, risk stratification for neutropenic fever, monoclonal antibodies, and antibiotic resistance in the setting of the immunocompromised cancer patient. She also reviews management of neutropenic fever, common pathogens, and selected syndromes – nodular pneumonia and ecthyma gangrenosum.

Hepatitis C Virus Basics

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 18:34:04 +0000

Dr. Torres shares some basic information about Hepatitis C infection.

Biostatistics: Back to the Basics, Part II

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 18:50:38 +0000

Part II of the into biostatistics session originally presented in 2009.

Treatment of Clostridium Difficile Infection: Old Treatments and New Strategies

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 21:16:32 +0000

Linda Cheung, PharmD, speaks about the treatment of Clostridium difficile infections. She provides a background on C. difficile epidemiology, pathogenesis, risk factors (antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors), clinical manifestations (diarrheal disease, pseudomembranous colitis, toxic megacolon), diagnostic laboratory tests (PCR, EIA toxin assay, cytotoxins, stool culture), and management. She also discusses probiotic prophylaxis, new antimicrobials indications for C. difficile, IVIG use, and stool transplants. Finally, she discusses future therapies in development and infection control – the importance of proper handwashing.

Ebola Virus: Old Pathogen, New Outbreak

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 19:56:25 +0000

Dr. Lysenia Mojica discusses the recent Ebola outbreak in West Africa. She speaks about the history and characteristics of the Filoviridae and discusses Ebola virus in particular. Ebola vectors are unknown, though thought to be carried by bats, and transmission of the highly virulent and stable virus can occur parenterally and by physical contact. She goes over clinical manifestations, risk factors, laboratory findings, and management and containment strategies. Finally, she discusses global implications of the West Africa outbreak.

Middle Eastern Respiratory Virus Syndrome

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 19:36:39 +0000

Dr. Rey Rivera, infectious diseases fellow at the USF College of Medicine discusses a case of MERS and the implications of the 2014 MERS Coronavirus outbreak. The 2020 SARS CoV-2 Coronavirus shares similarities with the SARS-CoV and MERS, as all are Betacoronaviruses. He provides an overview of the infection, viral characteristics, epidemiology, presentation, diagnosis, and management. He also goes over screening criteria from the CDC and recommendations for people traveling to endemic areas such as Saudi Arabia. MERS outbreaks are still ongoing in the Middle East as of early 2020. Though the podcast was recorded in 2014, the specifics of MERS are worth revisiting in the shadow of the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic.

Long-Term Progressors and Elite Controllers: From Mississippi to Berlin

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Sun, 15 Jun 2014 20:04:00 +0000

Dr. Jane Mai speaks about patients who have been “cured” of HIV infections – those patients who have no symptoms of HIV for greater than 10 years, and may have normal CD4 counts without significant decline. She reviews cell-mediated and humoral immunity and their involvement in a patient’s response to HIV infection and treatment. She also provides an overview of HIV pathogenesis, patient and viral factors that influence disease course, and possible targets for vaccines and new therapies. She also discusses patients who had seemingly achieved a clinical cure, including the Mississippi Baby, and Berlin Patients (Timothy Ray Brown).

HIV Long Term Prognosis: Optimistic Outcomes

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 21:12:59 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano speaks about the long term outcomes in HIV-infected patients. She reviews immune reconstitution, the factors that lead to ART success, management of aging patients with longer lifespans, and implications for the future. Immune Reconstitution involves the expected recovery of the immune system when ART is initiated, while an unmodulated immune response characterized by worsening opportunistic infections is called IRIS. She also addresses HIV latency in other organ systems, HIV non-progressors, IRIS morbidity and mortality, and generational differences in HIV treatment outcomes. She touches on pre-exposure prophylaxis for high-risk individuals – men who have sex with men and intravenous drug users. Finally, she covers future infectious disease concerns for HIV patients, including MERS-CoV and reemerging vaccine preventable infections.

Antifungal Prophylaxis in Cancer Patients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 20:14:32 +0000

Rod Quilitz, PharmD, speaks about antifungal prophylaxis in cancer patients. Since these patients are largely immunocompromised, they are more susceptible to fungal infections, both by irritating manifestations like mucocutaneous candidiasis and potentially life-threatening invasive systemic fungal infections. However, antifungal medications can cause toxicity and drug interactions that must be balanced with the risk of infection in these patients. He covers candidiasis and aspergillosis, and the agents used to treat and prevent them. He also covers contraindications to antifungal prophylaxis.

Vaccine Health Disparities in the United States

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 19:45:03 +0000

Dr. Jamie Morano speaks about health disparities regarding vaccination in the US and public health strategies to improve vaccination rates in the US population. She discusses the re-emergence of vaccine preventable diseases in the US, including measles and pertussis. She also speaks about the misconceptions about severity of these diseases and the risks/benefits of vaccines. She reviews the adult immunization schedule and common illnesses like pneumonia and influenza.

Review of Dermatology in HIV Infection

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 18:58:05 +0000

Dr. Nancy Rihana presents a review of dermatological manifestations and conditions associated with HIV infection. While opportunistic infections and Kaposi’s sarcoma have decreased in incidence with the advent of HAART, inflammatory skin conditions remain at constant levels of incidence. Reviewing the various cutaneous pathologies that occur in HIV-infected patients may prevent the clinician from stopping successful HAART due to suspicion for drug allergy. Dr. Rihana reviews exanthems expected at different CD4 counts, including syphilis, staphylococcus infections, scabies, lymphoma, fungal infections, shingles, psoriasis, and skin cancers among other conditions.

Beta-Lactam Allergy: The True Clinical Implication

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 21:29:06 +0000

Queenet Ibekweh, PharmD, speaks about the clinical implications of beta-lactam antibiotic (penicillin, carbapenem and cephalosporin) allergies. She discusses the different pathways of hypersensitivity reactions, cross-reactivity, epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of penicillin induced adverse drug reactions. She also discusses the use of beta-lactam antibiotics in patients with documented penicillin allergies.

Screening and Prophylaxis Strategies for Recipients of Solid Organ Transplants

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 21:21:09 +0000

Dr. Sally Alrabaa speaks about evaluation and management of infectious diseases in recipients of solid organ transplants. Multiple studies show improved outcomes with screening and prophylaxis for infectious disease in this population, especially for opportunistic pathogens. Important screening items include history of exposures, laboratory screening for viruses, colonization with multidrug resistant bacteria and TB, and fungal and parasite screening based on geography and exposure history. She covers infectious disease contraindications to solid organ transplantation, including active TB and HIV infections. Finally, she covers prophylaxis strategies like vaccinations, peri-operative antimicrobials, and lifestyle modifications to prevent infection.

Cryptococcus Gattii

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 14:16:34 +0000

Dr. Joseph Halliday discusses an emerging fungal pathogen, C. gattii and outbreaks in the Northwest US and British Columbia. C. gattii is an encapsulated yeast most often seen in immunocompromised patients, but epidemic varieties infect immunocompetent patients as well. He also discusses the presence of endemic C. gattii, clinical manifestations of this fungal infection, diagnosis, management, and complications.

Dates in ID: 20th Century Edition

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 14:10:07 +0000

What disease caused a pandemic in 1968? When was the MMR vaccine first introduced for pediatric use? What was the Ebola virus named after? Keep watching and find out! Dr. Richard Oehler hosts an entertaining review of the history of infectious diseases in a game show format. Each question is followed by a short historical snippet to improve your knowledge of Infectious Disease trivia!

Zoonoses of Exotic Pets

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 14:36:54 +0000

Dr. Lily Jones speaks about zoonoses from exotic pets – specifically select bacterial infections and their routes of transmission. She also discusses patients who are at high risk for zoonotic infections and their prevention. She speaks about infections associated with horses, deer, sheep, cattle, goats, birds, fish, reptiles, and exotic mammalian pets. She presents specific cases studies on Q fever, Brucellosis, Leptospirosis, Typhus, and Mycobacterium marinum infections.

Rapid Diagnosis of Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 14:48:36 +0000

Dr. Richard Oehler provides an update on rapid diagnostic techniques for infectious diseases in a clinical vignette format. He discusses important signs, symptoms, and key rapid laboratory tests that can help a clinician make a rapid diagnosis and start treatment early in the disease. He also lists common pathogens and treatment strategies for each illness. He covers community acquired pneumonia, C. difficile, endocarditis, acute meningitis, necrotizing fasciitis and more!

Culture Negative Endocarditis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 15:10:21 +0000

Dr. Mitsuya Katayama discusses a case of culture negative endocarditis. He speaks about diagnostic criteria, common pathogens, epidemiology, risk factors. Culture negative endocarditis can be associated with previous antibiotic use, fastidious bacteria, nonbacterial infection, autoimmune conditions, valvular surgery, malignancy, and underlying heart or valve disease. Dr. Katayama focuses on infectious causes of culture negative endocarditis, mainly C. burnetii and Bartonella species. He touches on fungal endocarditis and treatment strategies for different categories of patients.

Antibiotic Stewardship for the Cancer Patient

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 15:19:57 +0000

Rod Quilitz, PharmD, speaks about the conscientious use of antimicrobials in cancer patients. Cancer patients have increased risk of infections due to circumstances like neutropenia, indwelling chemotherapy catheters, breakdown of epithelium from chemotherapy, and immunosuppression. They are at risk for infections from multidrug resistant organisms as they spend more and more time in healthcare facilities. As such, Dr. Quilitz covers his experience with antimicrobial stewardship at Moffitt Cancer Center, and some guidelines on the management of infections in cancer patients.

HIV Clinic Pearls

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 15:27:12 +0000

Dr. Morano discusses some important clinical pearls regarding the management of HIV/AIDS in the primary care setting.

Twenty Skin Infections for the Internist

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 25 Oct 2013 15:39:14 +0000

Dr. Ana Velez speaks about common skin infections that are clinically relevant to the internist and infectious disease physician. She covers the identification of these infections, complications, and medical and surgical management, based on the depth of skin affected. She covers impetigo, erysipelas, cellulitis, fasciitis, and myonecrosis. Some infections mentioned include staphylococcal infections (including MRSA), clostridium, polymicrobial necrotizing fasciitis, Fournier’s gangrene, Pseudomonas folliculitis, and herpes zoster (shingles).

Tropical Medicine Cases from the Gorgas Course, Part I

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 31 May 2013 16:18:40 +0000

Dr. Ianiro shares a number of fascinating tropical medicine cases she and her colleagues cared for as a participant in the Gorgas Tropical Medicine course in Peru in 2013. This is the first of a two-part series.

Top Ten Infectious Diseases of All Time

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 31 May 2013 15:51:07 +0000

Dr Henry Chambers, Chief of Infectious Diseases at San Francisco General Hospital, presents his candidates for the ten most significant infectious diseases in history. An ID Podcasts archived classic presentation from 2013.

Pulmonary Complications Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 31 May 2013 14:56:26 +0000

Dr. John Greene presents rapid review case studies of pulmonary complications, including nosocomial infections, in patients with hematopoietic stem cell transplants. He covers the diagnosis and management of infections with influenza and other respiratory viruses, legionella, mycobacterium, chlamydia pneumonia, pertussis, pneumococcal pneumonia and other pulmonary microbes in the setting of immunocompromise. He also covers clinical presentation, imaging, and histopathology for each of these infections.

Tropical Medicine Cases From the Gorgas Course, Part II

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 13 May 2013 16:18:05 +0000

Legionella

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 20:41:45 +0000

Dr. Kenney reviews the epidemiology, diagnosis and management of this significant nosocomial and community-acquired pathogen.

Meningitis and Encephalitis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 16:25:12 +0000

Dr. Toney conducts a case review of meningitis and encephalitis with a focus on their recognition and management.

Infections of the Eye

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 18:43:25 +0000

Dr. Toney reviews common infectious syndromes involving the eye.

Dengue Fever

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 15:44:00 +0000

Dr. Rihana reviews the eipedmiology and management of this emerging tropical illness. This is our second most popular podcast of all time!

Leprosy

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 16:44:42 +0000

Dr. Heinzel reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentations, complications, and therapeutic options of this venerable pathogen. An ID Podcasts archived classic originally recorded in 2013.

Introduction to Transplant Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 19:25:00 +0000

Dr. Baluch presents an introduction to infectious diseases prevention and and management in the solid organ and stem cell transplant patient.

Critical Evaluation of the Medical Literature

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Sat, 05 Jan 2013 21:07:45 +0000

Dr. Pasikhova disusses a rational approach for reviewing the medical literature for accuracy and content.

Infectious Diseases and Polytrauma

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 16:19:07 +0000

Dr. Heinzel discusses the infectious diseases management of the patient exposed to polytrauma, such as those who have been injured in the course of overseas deployment.

Communicating with the Media in Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Sun, 29 Jul 2012 18:01:35 +0000

Dr. Haight discusses how to be an effective communicator when discussing infectious diseases issues with the media (oriented towards infectious diseases clinicians). From a classic lecture recorded in the late 2000’s.

Brucellosis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Sat, 26 May 2012 16:32:12 +0000

A clinical review of the zoonotic syndrome, Brucellosis

A Tour of the Medical Wing of the London Museum of Science

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 23 May 2012 16:31:04 +0000

In this 2007 podcast, Dr. Oehler presents a tour of the famed medical wing of the London Museum of Science. This presentation has the distinction of being our very first podcast, and its historical value still holds up more than a decade later.

Introduction to Antibiotics Use

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 22 May 2012 20:55:32 +0000

Dr. John Greene explains his principles to the use of antibiotics in the management of hospital-related infectious diseases

AIDS-related Opportunistic Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 22 May 2012 16:47:23 +0000

A review of the clinical manifestations of HIV/AIDS related opportunistic pathogens.

Clinical Leishmaniasis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 22 May 2012 16:39:41 +0000

A clinical review of the epidemiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic principles for Leishmaniasis. Recorded by the late Frederick Heinzel in 2012.

Foodborne Pathogens

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 18 May 2012 16:56:57 +0000

A review of gastroenteritis pathogens associated with food exposure. Among our most popular podcasts.

Clostridium Gas Forming Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 18 May 2012 14:19:25 +0000

A fast paced photo review of the common infectious diseases that are associated with the production of gas in the tissues

Rabies 101

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 18 May 2012 14:09:56 +0000

Dr. Sriaroon presents a concise review of this deadly infection of domestic and wild animals.

Prosthetic Joint and Orthopedic Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 14 May 2012 17:10:14 +0000

A review of the common syndromes producing orthopedic and prosthetic joint infections

Overview of Beta-Lactamases in Gram Negative Infections

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 21:19:40 +0000

A review of the various resistance mechanisms associated with beta-lactamases in gram negative organisms.

Infections in Dermatology

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 21:03:48 +0000

A fast paced photo review of the common dermatologic syndromes seen in the practice of Infectious Diseases medicine

Neutropenic Fever and Clinical Syndromes

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:24:09 +0000

A review of the phenomenon of neutropenic fever and its related clinical syndromes

Infections in Burn Patients

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:16:02 +0000

The care and management of infections in burn patients is reviewed.

Aminoglycosides 101: The Basics of Dosing

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:57:44 +0000

A review of the proper ways to dose and manage aminoglycosides. An IDPodcasts archived classic presentation.

Medical and Diagnostic Mycology of Importance to the Practicing Physician

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:39:20 +0000

A popular review of the basic principles of medical mycology oriented towards the practicing clinician.

Antibiotic Review: Beta Lactams

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:04:04 +0000

A review of Beta-Lactam antibiotics in infectious diseases practice.

Osteomyelitis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 15:55:11 +0000

A review of some of the basic principles of osteomyeltis management.

Introduction to Biostatistics: Back to the Basics

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 15:48:43 +0000

A review of some of the elementary principles of biostatistics in medicine.

Part II of this lecture is available at https://youtu.be/X6cb0MUhs2U

Review of TB Meningitis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 21:16:18 +0000

Dr. Rosas reviews TB meningitis, a difficult to diagnose manifestation of one of the epochal infectious diseases of mankind, focusing on disease history, epidemiology, risk factors, recognition, diagnosis, and treatment.

Viral Infections Photo Review

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 19:22:59 +0000

A fast-paced review of common adult and pediatric viral exanthems.

Post-Splenectomy Management

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 15:02:53 +0000

Dr. Heinzel discusses the immunologic and hematologic consequences that occur in asplenic individuals.

Meningitis Review

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 21:27:09 +0000

A fast-paced review of CNS Infection syndromes

Antibiotic Dosing in End Stage Renal Disease

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:28:48 +0000

Dr. Cheung reviews appropriate antibiotic dosing strategies for patients with ESRD

West Nile Virus: The First Decade

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 18:52:56 +0000

Dr. Oehler reviews the basics of West Nile Virus infection, a viral disease that exploded into public consciousness in 1999 and has since become an endemic cause of arboviral encephalitis across the U.S.

Professionism in the Field of Infectious Diseases

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 18:17:44 +0000

Dr. John T. Sinnott, past director of the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of South Florida, reviews professionism in medicine. An ID Podcasts’ classic presentation originally recorded in 2009.

Head and Neck Infections Review

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:18:12 +0000

Dr. John Greene conducts a photo review of common infections of the head and neck area. Topics covered include lateral space infections, cervical adenitis, infections of the oropharynx, skin and soft tissue infections, and leprosy. This podcast has the distinction of being the most popular podcast we have posted in our 10+ year history.

Amebiasis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 19:36:51 +0000

Dr. Luis Rosas, fellow with the USF Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine discusses the epidemiology, diagnosis, and therapy of Amoebiasis.

Nocardiosis

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:41:19 +0000

A succinct review of Nocardiosis

Infectious Diseases in Solid Organ Transplantation

richard.oehler@va.gov(Richard Oehler) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 19:01:22 +0000

Dr. Sally Houston, ID clinician and now Senior VP and Chief Medical Officer of Tampa General Hospital, discusses infectious common infectious diseases issues associated with solid organ transplantation. An IDPodcasts classic archived presentation originally recorded in 2011.