MD Newsline

Welcome to The MD Newsline Podcast, where we bring you the latest insights at the intersection of healthcare and innovation. Join us as we dive deep into the medical breakthroughs, clinical trial updates, and industry best practices shaping the future of patient care. Each episode features thought-provoking conversations with leading healthcare professionals, researchers, and advocates tackling the biggest challenges in medicine today. We uncover the strategies and innovations that are transforming the way care is delivered. If you're a healthcare provider, industry leader, or simply passionate about advancing medical education, this is your go-to resource for expert knowledge and actionable insights. Tune in, stay informed, and be part of the movement toward a healthier future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Axial Spondyloarthritis: From Inflammatory Back Pain to Targeted Therapy 01/06/2026

Axial Spondyloarthritis: From Inflammatory Back Pain to Targeted Therapy In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Joel Wright, a rheumatology fellow at UCLA, provides an in-depth, practical discussion on axial spondyloarthritis and related spondyloarthritides. Dr. Wright breaks down evolving disease definitions, diagnostic challenges, imaging interpretation, and modern treatment strategies, while emphasizing a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. The conversation highlights how early recognition and individualized therapy can significantly improve long-term outcomes. Episode Highlights Defining Axial vs. Peripheral Spondyloarthritis Dr. Wright explains the modern classification of spondyloarthritis, distinguishing axial disease—which primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints—from peripheral spondyloarthritis and psoriatic arthritis. He discusses why the shift away from the term ankylosing spondylitis allows for earlier diagnosis before irreversible spinal fusion occurs. Recognizing Red Flags Across Specialties Inflammatory back pain remains the most important clinical clue, particularly pain that worsens at rest, improves with exercise, and is associated with prolonged morning stiffness. Dr. Wright also highlights extra-musculoskeletal signs—such as uveitis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease—that should prompt early referral to rheumatology. Classification Criteria vs. Clinical Judgment While ASAS classification criteria are useful for research, Dr. Wright emphasizes that real-world diagnosis relies on clinical expertise. Patients may not meet strict criteria early in the disease course, yet still warrant diagnosis and treatment based on symptoms, exam findings, labs, and imaging. MRI Use and Common Diagnostic Pitfalls MRI of the sacroiliac joints plays a central role in early detection, but Dr. Wright cautions against overreliance on imaging alone. Bone marrow edema can be seen in athletes, postpartum patients, or with aging, underscoring the importance of correlating MRI findings with clinical context. Biomarkers and Emerging Research HLA-B27, ESR, and CRP remain useful tools, though many patients have normal inflammatory markers. Dr. Wright discusses emerging biomarkers, including antibodies such as anti-CD74, and the need for more reliable tools to support earlier diagnosis. Treatment Algorithms and Medication Selection NSAIDs remain first-line therapy and may slow radiographic progression. For patients with inadequate response, Dr. Wright outlines escalation to biologics, including TNF inhibitors, IL-17 inhibitors, and JAK inhibitors—while tailoring choices based on comorbidities such as uveitis or inflammatory bowel disease. Treat-to-Target and Monitoring Early disease requires more frequent follow-up to assess response and adjust therapy. Dr. Wright explains realistic timelines for evaluating NSAIDs and biologics while balancing treat-to-target goals with clinic capacity. The Role of Exercise and Non-Pharmacologic Care Physical therapy, structured exercise, and low-impact activities such as swimming and cycling are foundational to care. Dr. Wright emphasizes the mental and physical benefits of movement, posture training, and holistic therapies alongside medication. Managing Comorbidities and Special Populations The discussion covers cardiovascular risk screening, adherence challenges in younger patients, biologic tapering in remission, pregnancy considerations, and care for older adults with established structural damage. Shared decision-making remains central across all scenarios. Key Takeaway Dr. Wright underscores that axial spondyloarthritis requires early recognition, thoughtful interpretation of imaging, and individualized treatment strategies. Combining pharmacologic therapy with exercise, multidisciplinary care, and patient education is essential to improving quality of life and preventing long-term disability. Resources Website: Newsletter: Connect with Dr. Joel Wright: /episode/index/show/ecb5ed55-2779-489f-bef7-9484228289f1/id/39623405

Vitamin D, Epstein-Barr Virus, and MS Risk 01/06/2026

Vitamin D, Epstein-Barr Virus, and MS Risk In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Marianna Cortese, a medical doctor and epidemiologist at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, shares groundbreaking research on the link between vitamin D, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). Her work, conducted within the U.S. military cohort, sheds new light on racial, genetic, and environmental factors influencing MS development and potential prevention strategies. Dr. Cortese discusses how vitamin D levels and immune response modulation play a role in MS prevention, and how EBV infection—now recognized as the leading cause of MS—interacts with genetic susceptibility and immune regulation. She also explores the future of AI in epidemiological research, the challenges of defining “deficiency” across diverse populations, and how personalized medicine may change MS prevention and treatment. Episode Highlights Understanding the Vitamin D–MS Connection Dr. Cortese explains her landmark study assessing vitamin D levels in over 1,400 MS cases and double the number of controls from a U.S. military cohort. The findings show that higher vitamin D levels are associated with a 60% lower risk of MS, even among individuals who already meet current “sufficient” vitamin D thresholds. Epstein-Barr Virus as a Causal Factor She details how EBV infection precedes nearly all MS diagnoses, increasing risk 32-fold in those infected compared to those who remain uninfected. The 2022 Science paper by her team was pivotal in confirming EBV as the primary cause of MS. Racial and Genetic Differences in Vitamin D Physiology Dr. Cortese emphasizes that Black populations may metabolize vitamin D differently, which could explain why prior studies found weaker associations between vitamin D levels and MS risk. Her ongoing work includes genotyping vitamin D transport proteins and analyzing ethnic variations in MS susceptibility. Public Health Implications and Future Research Given vitamin D’s safety, affordability, and widespread deficiency, Dr. Cortese advocates for revised supplementation guidelines tailored to disease prevention. She also highlights future research directions involving AI-driven data analysis, omics studies, and therapeutic vaccines or antivirals targeting EBV. A Look Toward MS Prevention and Treatment Dr. Cortese envisions a future where antiviral therapies against EBV could transform MS management—potentially leading to disease-modifying or curative interventions. Meanwhile, maintaining sufficient vitamin D remains a key, accessible step for reducing risk. Key Takeaway Dr. Cortese’s research bridges decades of inquiry into how vitamin D and EBV intersect to influence MS risk. Her findings reinforce the importance of immune health, genetic understanding, and early prevention, paving the way for more personalized and equitable approaches to neurological care. Resources Website: Newsletter: Connect with Dr. Marianna Cortese: /episode/index/show/ecb5ed55-2779-489f-bef7-9484228289f1/id/38903890

Living With HS: Tameka Carter’s Journey to Diagnosis and Treatment 01/02/2026

Living With HS: Tameka Carter’s Journey to Diagnosis and Treatment In this episode of MD Newsline, patient advocate Tameka Carter shares her personal journey living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic, painful inflammatory skin condition often misdiagnosed for years. Tameka discusses the early signs of HS, the emotional and physical toll of delayed diagnosis, and the importance of finding a specialist who truly listens. She offers valuable insight into treatment decision-making, lifestyle changes, and the critical role of self-advocacy in managing a lifelong condition. Episode Highlights Early Symptoms and Delayed Diagnosis Tameka reflects on experiencing painful boils as early as adolescence, often dismissed as razor bumps, cysts, or irritation. Despite recurring symptoms, she did not receive an HS diagnosis until 2019—highlighting a common challenge many HS patients face. Impact of Hormones and Life Changes Symptoms became more frequent and severe in her early 20s, particularly after pregnancy. Over time, Tameka began noticing patterns related to her menstrual cycle, helping her better understand flare triggers. The Emotional and Physical Burden of HS Living with chronic pain, drainage, and scarring significantly affected Tameka’s quality of life and confidence. She shares how unmanaged HS can quietly take over daily living when symptoms become constant. Finding the Right Specialist Tameka emphasizes the turning point in her care after seeking a dermatologist who specializes in HS. Under the care of Dr. Onajin, she experienced a more aggressive, responsive treatment approach that prioritized real pain reduction and patient feedback. Personalized Treatment and Pain Measurement Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, treatment success was measured by meaningful pain reduction percentages. This patient-centered strategy allowed Tameka and her care team to adjust therapies quickly when something wasn’t working. Procedures, Medications, and Combination Care Tameka discusses the role of biologics, steroid injections, surgical procedures, and scar tissue removal as part of a comprehensive treatment plan—emphasizing that improvement was gradual, not overnight. Nutrition and Lifestyle as Key Triggers Diet emerged as one of the most impactful factors in managing HS. Tameka shares how eliminating refined sugar, dairy, and soda helped reduce flares, improve energy levels, and support overall well-being. Advocacy, Education, and Listening to Your Body A strong advocate for patient education, Tameka encourages others to research their condition, speak up when treatments fail, and seek second or third opinions. She underscores that patients know their bodies best—and deserve to be heard. Advice for Patients and Providers Tameka offers powerful guidance for those living with HS and for healthcare providers: listen, communicate clearly, and treat patients as partners in care. Key Takeaway Tameka Carter’s story highlights the importance of early recognition, specialist care, and patient advocacy in managing hidradenitis suppurativa. Meaningful progress happens when patients are heard, treatments are personalized, and care teams act with urgency and compassion. Resources Website: Newsletter: /episode/index/show/ecb5ed55-2779-489f-bef7-9484228289f1/id/39589855

How Ultra-Processed Food Impacts MS Progression 12/30/2025

How Ultra-Processed Food Impacts MS Progression In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Gloria Dalla Costa, a researcher at Harvard University, shares groundbreaking insights into the role of ultra-processed foods in multiple sclerosis (MS) progression. Drawing from her research on environmental and metabolic risk factors, Dr. Dalla Costa discusses how dietary habits may influence inflammation, disease activity, and long-term neurological outcomes in MS patients. Her work reveals compelling evidence that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods correlates with increased inflammatory markers, worsened MRI outcomes, and a greater risk of relapse. By analyzing blood-based metabolic signatures, her team is uncovering how these foods interact with biological pathways tied to chronic inflammation and neurodegeneration. Dr. Dalla Costa also discusses the Nova classification of processed foods, the role of ceramides and other metabolites in cellular health, and how regional dietary patterns affect disease outcomes. She emphasizes the importance of adopting a Mediterranean-style diet and reducing ultra-processed food intake as a modifiable lifestyle factor that can complement established MS therapies. Episode Highlights Exploring Environmental Risk Factors for MS Dr. Dalla Costa explains how her team investigates multiple environmental contributors to MS, including Epstein–Barr virus exposure, vitamin D levels, and now, ultra-processed food intake. Ultra-Processed Foods and Disease Activity Her findings show that MS patients with higher levels of ultra-processed food metabolites in their blood experience 30% more relapses and worse MRI lesion progression over five years. Metabolic Signatures and Biomarkers Dr. Dalla Costa outlines how measuring circulating metabolites in blood and urine offers an innovative way to assess dietary exposure objectively, bypassing unreliable food questionnaires. Dietary Classification and Health Impact The Nova system distinguishes between unprocessed, minimally processed, processed, and ultra-processed foods. Additives, preservatives, and colorants—while convenient—are linked to inflammation and metabolic stress. Towards Personalized Nutrition in MS Emerging evidence suggests that dietary modification could become a complementary approach in MS management. Dr. Dalla Costa envisions a future where AI and machine learning will personalize nutritional recommendations for patients. Future Directions in Research Her team plans to explore how ultra-processed foods affect the gut barrier, contribute to chronic inflammation, and potentially inform dietary policy and patient education globally. Key Takeaway Dr. Dalla Costa underscores that reducing ultra-processed food intake may serve as a simple yet powerful tool to support neurological health in MS patients. By combining validated therapies with mindful dietary choices, clinicians and patients can work together to mitigate inflammation and improve long-term outcomes. Resources Website: Newsletter: Connect with Dr. Gloria Dalla Costa: /episode/index/show/ecb5ed55-2779-489f-bef7-9484228289f1/id/38855720

Biomarkers in Multiple Sclerosis: Tracking Disease Progression 12/23/2025

Biomarkers in Multiple Sclerosis: Tracking Disease Progression In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Ahmed Abdelhak, Assistant Professor of Neurology at the University of California, San Francisco, explores the cutting-edge world of fluid biomarkers in multiple sclerosis (MS). With over a decade of experience as an MS clinical scientist, Dr. Abdelhak shares his expertise on the evolving role of biomarkers in understanding, predicting, and managing MS progression. He breaks down how markers like neurofilament light chain (NFL), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and chitinase (CHIT1/CHIT3) offer insights into the underlying neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative processes in MS. From identifying axonal damage to detecting astrocyte activation and microglial involvement, these biomarkers are transforming how clinicians assess disease activity and progression risk. Dr. Abdelhak also discusses the potential of machine learning and AI-based models in interpreting complex, multi-center datasets — paving the way for personalized treatment strategies. He emphasizes the importance of cross-specialty collaboration, incorporating radiology, immunology, and physical therapy, to deliver holistic MS care that addresses both neurological and everyday challenges faced by patients. Episode Highlights Advancements in MS Biomarkers Dr. Abdelhak reviews emerging biomarkers — including GFAP and chitinases — and explains their cellular origins, from astrocytes to microglia, offering a multidimensional view of disease mechanisms. Clinical Value of GFAP and NFL He explains how GFAP reflects astrocyte activation and correlates with disease progression, while NFL indicates axonal damage. Combining both markers enables a more precise prediction of MS activity and long-term disability outcomes. Machine Learning and Data Integration AI is reshaping MS research by harmonizing large, noisy datasets and uncovering biologically meaningful clusters of patients. This integration of fluid, imaging, and genetic data supports early identification of disease subtypes and better treatment matching. Personalized and Holistic MS Management Dr. Abdelhak underscores the future of individualized biomarker trajectories, which could guide treatment adjustments and predict therapy response. He also highlights the need for patient advocacy, encouraging individuals to voice concerns about cognitive symptoms, fatigue, and depression often overlooked in clinical settings. The Path Ahead for MS Research He anticipates major breakthroughs in the next five years, especially in identifying new biomarker panels and understanding under-researched pathways involving astrocytes and microglia. Collaboration across specialties and clearer communication with patients will be crucial to translating these scientific insights into daily clinical care. Key Takeaway Dr. Ahmed Abdelhak emphasizes that fluid biomarkers are redefining MS care — enabling earlier, more accurate detection of disease progression and treatment response. The integration of AI tools, multi-omics data, and cross-specialty collaboration is driving a new era of precision medicine in neurology, offering patients more informed and individualized care pathways. Resources Website: Newsletter: Connect with Dr. Ahmed Abdelhak: /episode/index/show/ecb5ed55-2779-489f-bef7-9484228289f1/id/38855650

Optic Neuritis, MS Differentials, and Modern Treatment Pathways 12/16/2025

Optic Neuritis, MS Differentials, and Modern Treatment Pathways In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Nilüfer Kale, Head of the Department of Neurology at Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, provides an in-depth look into optic neuritis, multiple sclerosis (MS), and related demyelinating disorders. She discusses the pathophysiology, diagnostic challenges, and treatment evolution of these conditions—offering valuable insights for clinicians managing autoimmune neuroinflammatory diseases. Dr. Kale also highlights the importance of accurate differential diagnosis, the role of neuroimaging and biomarkers, and how advancements in remyelination research are shaping the future of MS treatment. Episode Highlights Epidemiology and Patient Demographics Dr. Kale explains that autoimmune neurological disorders such as MS and optic neuritis predominantly affect young women in their childbearing years. She attributes this trend to the interplay of hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors, including vitamin D deficiency, Epstein–Barr virus exposure, and obesity. Pathophysiology of MS and Optic Neuritis She provides a detailed overview of how immune system activation, particularly involving T cells, B cells, and cytokines, leads to demyelination and subsequent neurodegeneration. While early disease stages may allow remyelination, progressive degeneration contributes to long-term disability. Diagnosis and Differential Considerations Dr. Kale emphasizes that early and accurate diagnosis is critical to preventing irreversible damage. Conditions such as neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and MOG antibody disease (MOGAD) can mimic MS, underscoring the need for MRI imaging, CSF analysis, and antibody testing to guide correct classification and treatment. Clinical Presentation and Early Detection Optic neuritis often presents with eye pain, color desaturation, and central vision loss. Dr. Kale notes that orbital and cranial MRI scans with contrast are essential for confirming inflammation and ruling out other causes such as ischemic optic neuropathy or ophthalmologic conditions. Treatment Strategies and Advances Standard management involves high-dose intravenous corticosteroids to accelerate visual recovery and delay MS onset, as shown in the Optic Neuritis Treatment Trial (ONTT). For severe or atypical cases, Dr. Kale recommends plasmapheresis or IV immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy. She stresses tailoring therapy to the individual patient, noting that treatment protocols for MS, NMO, and MOGAD differ significantly. Evolving Therapies and Global Access Dr. Kale reflects on the progress from early interferon-based therapies to modern monoclonal antibody treatments, highlighting how health policy and access continue to affect patient outcomes worldwide. Emerging Research and Biomarkers Advances in PET imaging and astrocyte-targeted ligands show promise for identifying chronic lesions and smoldering plaques, which could pave the way for future remyelination-focused treatments. Patient-Centered Care and Gender Considerations Beyond science, Dr. Kale underscores the emotional and social burden faced by women living with MS—balancing family responsibilities, work, and health. She advocates for stronger patient networks and social support systems to improve quality of life. Key Takeaway Dr. Kale emphasizes that timely diagnosis, personalized therapy, and advances in neuroimaging and immunology are transforming MS and optic neuritis care. She calls for continued collaboration between clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to ensure equitable access to modern treatments and better long-term outcomes for patients. Resources Website: Newsletter: Connect with Dr. Nilüfer Kale: /episode/index/show/ecb5ed55-2779-489f-bef7-9484228289f1/id/38855590

Sybil AI and Precision Lung Cancer Screening 12/08/2025

Sybil AI and Precision Lung Cancer Screening In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Frank Weinberg, a thoracic oncologist at the University of Illinois Cancer Center, explores the groundbreaking integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into lung cancer screening. As the senior author and a key collaborator in the SIBL (Sybil) Consortium, Dr. Weinberg shares how this AI tool—originally developed by MIT’s Regina Barzilay and validated at Mass General Hospital—is being expanded to assess its effectiveness in diverse and underserved populations. He discusses how SIBL uses low-dose CT scans to predict a patient’s six-year risk of developing lung cancer, addressing a critical gap in current screening guidelines that often overlook individuals who don’t meet standard age or smoking history criteria. Through collaboration with colleagues like Mary Pasquinelli, Dr. Weinberg highlights how the University of Illinois is advancing precision-based lung cancer screening that reflects real-world diversity. Episode Highlights AI for Early Lung Cancer Detection Dr. Weinberg explains how the SIBL tool analyzes CT scans to detect subtle patterns invisible to the human eye—allowing clinicians to predict lung cancer risk before tumors are visible. Unlike traditional screening models based solely on age and smoking history, SIBL offers a personalized, data-driven approach. Expanding Validation Across Diverse Populations The SIBL Consortium, which includes UIC, Baptist Memorial (Tennessee), and WellStar (Southeast U.S.), is working to validate the AI tool in heterogeneous populations. The goal is to ensure that racial and socioeconomic diversity is represented in lung cancer screening research. Integrating Biology with AI Insights Dr. Weinberg discusses his lab’s efforts to combine biological data—such as cytokine levels, metabolites, and genetic profiles—with SIBL scores. This approach aims to deepen understanding of oxidative stress, inflammation, and genomic markers that influence lung cancer risk. From Screening to Prevention Moving beyond detection, Dr. Weinberg envisions a future of precision-guided lung cancer prevention, where AI-driven insights and biomarker data could identify high-risk patients and enable early interventions to reduce cancer incidence altogether. Bridging Health Disparities Because current screening criteria disproportionately exclude Black and underserved patients, validating SIBL in diverse cohorts can help correct systemic inequities. Dr. Weinberg emphasizes that technology like SIBL, when responsibly deployed, can reduce disparities and improve early detection outcomes. Challenges and Next Steps Dr. Weinberg also reflects on the technical, ethical, and logistical challenges of implementing AI tools in healthcare systems. From data privacy and interoperability to community trust and educational outreach, he stresses that responsible innovation requires collaboration between clinicians, data scientists, and patients alike. Key Takeaway Dr. Frank Weinberg underscores the transformative potential of AI-powered precision medicine to revolutionize lung cancer screening and reduce disparities in healthcare. By validating tools like SIBL across diverse populations and integrating biological, clinical, and social data, the medical community can move closer to achieving truly equitable early detection and prevention. Resources Website: Newsletter: Connect with Dr. Frank Weinberg: /episode/index/show/ecb5ed55-2779-489f-bef7-9484228289f1/id/38791630