This session highlighted case-based approaches to pediatric pneumonia and complicated UTI. Key messages included limiting antibiotics in viral pneumonia, using amoxicillin for uncomplicated cases, and managing pleural effusions with drainage. For UTIs, risk-based stratification, tailored antibiotics, and prophylaxis in high-grade VUR were emphasized. Real cases illustrated diagnostic and treatment challenges.

Prof. Jethro Herberg highlighted that host immune response, influenced by genetics and environment, drives pediatric infection outcomes more than pathogens. Post-COVID iGAS surges reflected waning immunity. A debate on treating GAS-positive children showed split views—prosecution backed 10-day penicillin; defense favored selective, shorter courses. Jury remained divided.

Individuals with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) faced a heightened risk of developing cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) vs those without, a study noted. Among 386,651 tracked for 13.8 years, MAFLD more than doubled the risk of incident CMM (HR 2.78). MAFLD also accelerated CMM in those with T2DM (HR 1.21), CHD (HR 1.90) and stroke (HR 1.65), stressing the need for early MAFLD intervention

In patients with myocardial infarction and non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), CMR-derived extracellular volume (ECV > 28.94%) independently predicted a higher risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, HR 1.06). “True” MINOCA patients had raised ECV compared to those with myocarditis, Takotsubo syndrome & cardiomyopathies, (29.1% vs 26.0%), highlighting its utility in this cohort.

In adults with mild traumatic brain injury, researchers spotlighted difficulty concentrating as a robust predictor of persistent symptoms after concussion (PSAC), raising the odds up to 26-fold at 6 months. A history of anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders also elevated PSAC risk (aOR 2.47), especially at 3 months. Amnesia or loss of consciousness further amplified PSAC odds (aOR 1.90).

A meta-analysis found microwave ablation (MWA) to be a safe and effective treatment for epistaxis, with a 97.3% success rate at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Compared to observation or silver nitrate, MWA markedly reduced odds of recurrent bleeding (OR 2.05). Pain scores remained low—1.83 during and 0.95 one hour post-procedure. With minimal complications, MWA could be a promising alternative for epistaxis.