Kids, Hormones, and Bones Flashcards

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Carb counting

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A method to estimate the grams of carbohydrate in a meal to determine the appropriate insulin dose. It is used to match prandial insulin to carbohydrate intake and improve glycemic control.

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Covering carbs

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Administering a mealtime (bolus) insulin dose designed to match the carbohydrate content of a meal. This practice helps prevent postprandial hyperglycemia when used with an established insulin-to-carb ratio.

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Correction dose

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An additional insulin dose given to lower an elevated blood glucose level back toward target. It is calculated using a correction factor and is used alongside routine basal and bolus insulin.

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Diabetic ketoacidosis

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A serious acute complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis that is commonly a first presentation in pediatric patients. Management emphasizes rapid fluid resuscitation, insulin therapy, and close monitoring of electrolytes and mental status.

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DKA symptoms

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Typical features include dehydration, altered consciousness, nausea, vomiting, and deep rapid respirations (Kussmaul breathing). These symptoms reflect metabolic acidosis and volume depletion.

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Hypoglycemia threshold

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Hypoglycemia is generally treated at a blood glucose of $70\,\text{mg/dL}$ or below, especially if symptomatic. Immediate treatment prioritizes rapid-acting carbohydrate administration and reassessment.

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Endocrine system

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The endocrine system regulates growth, development, metabolism, and sexual differentiation through hormone secretion. Hormonal balance is critical for normal physiologic development in children.

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Growth hormone deficiency

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A condition where insufficient growth hormone leads to poor linear growth and may cause delays in development and cognition. Causes can be congenital, acquired, or idiopathic and require endocrine evaluation and management.

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Ambiguous genitalia

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A presentation where external genitalia do not appear clearly male or female and may indicate disorders of sex development or hormonal abnormalities. Genetic testing and endocrine evaluation are essential for accurate diagnosis and management.

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Congenital hypothyroidism

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The most common thyroid disorder in newborns that can cause intellectual disability and growth delay if untreated. Symptoms include poor feeding, lethargy, constipation, and developmental delays, with laboratory findings of low T3/T4 and elevated TSH.

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Newborn screening

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A public health program to detect congenital conditions like hypothyroidism early so treatment can begin before permanent harm occurs. Early detection via screening prevents developmental delays and improves long-term outcomes.

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Levothyroxine therapy

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The standard lifelong replacement therapy for congenital hypothyroidism that normalizes thyroid hormone levels and supports growth and neurodevelopment. Dosing requires regular monitoring and adjustments based on thyroid function tests.

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Pediatric bone features

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Children's bones are less dense, more porous, and have a thicker periosteum compared with adults, making them more prone to certain fracture patterns. These structural differences also influence healing and risk of deformity.

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Bone healing

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Bone healing in children is typically faster due to a thicker periosteum and richer blood supply, which promote rapid callus formation and remodeling. This can result in quicker recovery but may require careful monitoring to avoid growth disturbances.

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Greenstick fracture

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A partial fracture where one side of the bone breaks and the other side bends, commonly seen in children because of bone pliability. Detection may be subtle and requires appropriate imaging and orthopedic management.

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Neurovascular compromise

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A critical post-operative or post-injury concern where blood flow or nerve function to a limb is impaired, risking ischemia and permanent damage. Prompt recognition and intervention including vascular and orthopedic assessment are essential.

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Scoliosis risks

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Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine that can progress and, when severe, affect thoracic cavity size and cardiopulmonary function. Early detection and monitoring help prevent progression and associated complications.

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Scoliosis treatment

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Treatment aims to prevent curvature progression and preserve function; options include observation, bracing for moderate curves, and surgical correction for severe or progressive deformities. Decisions are based on curve magnitude, patient age, and growth potential.