Pro-PA Podcast
The Pro-PA Podcast is hosted by Professor G, PA-C, and offers practical advice for physician assistant students, pre-PA candidates, and healthcare enthusiasts. Episodes cover patient encounters, clinical skills, anatomy, exam preparation, and career guidance. The show aims to make medicine simpler and provide tools, tips, and inspiration for succeeding in PA school and beyond.
Episodes
GI101: Diarrhea 101 | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, breaks down Diarrhea, a common GI complaint with a wide differential diagnosis. You’ll learn how to classify diarrhea as acute, persistent, or chronic and distinguish among watery, fatty, and inflammatory patterns to help narrow the cause. We’ll review important history and exam clues, when stool studies and additional tes
GI101: Colorectal Cancer | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Colorectal Cancer (CRC), one of the most common gastrointestinal malignancies and an important cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. You’ll learn to recognize key risk factors and warning signs—including changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, iron deficiency anemia, and unexplained weight loss—and und
GI101: Polyposis Syndromes | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Polyposis Syndromes, inherited conditions characterized by the development of multiple gastrointestinal polyps and, in some cases, a markedly increased risk of colorectal and other cancers. You’ll learn the high-yield features of syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), Gardner syndrome, Peutz-Jegher
GI101: Adenomatous Polyps | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Adenomatous Polyps, neoplastic colorectal polyps with the potential to progress to colorectal cancer through the adenoma-carcinoma sequence. You’ll learn to distinguish tubular, tubulovillous, and villous adenomas, recognize features associated with greater malignant potential, and understand why polyp size, histol
GI101: Non-Neoplastic Colorectal Polyps | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Non-Neoplastic Colorectal Polyps, a group of generally benign lesions that do not carry the same malignant potential as adenomatous polyps. You’ll learn the key features of common types—including hyperplastic, inflammatory, and hamartomatous polyps—and the clinical settings in which they may appear. We’ll also disc
GI101: Toxic Megacolon | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Toxic Megacolon, a life-threatening complication characterized by acute colonic dilation accompanied by systemic toxicity. You’ll learn to recognize key warning signs such as abdominal distention, pain, fever, tachycardia, and systemic illness, as well as its association with severe inflammatory bowel disease and i
GI101: Ulcerative Colitis (UC) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Ulcerative Colitis (UC), a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by continuous inflammation of the colonic mucosa beginning at the rectum. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark features such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, urgency, and tenesmus, while distinguishing UC from Crohn disease through its
GI101: Crohn Disease | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Crohn Disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any portion of the GI tract from mouth to anus. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark features such as abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, weight loss, skip lesions, and transmural inflammation, along with complications including fistulas, strictures, a
GI101: Ischemic Bowel Disease | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Ischemic Bowel Disease, a spectrum of conditions caused by inadequate blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract. You’ll learn to distinguish acute mesenteric ischemia from ischemic colitis, recognize high-yield presentations—including severe abdominal pain out of proportion to the physical exam—and identify importan
GI101: Colon Obstruction | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Colon Obstruction, a potentially serious cause of acute abdominal pain resulting from mechanical blockage of the large bowel. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark features such as progressive abdominal distention, crampy pain, constipation or obstipation, and vomiting, while reviewing common causes including colorect
GI101: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a disorder of gut-brain interaction characterized by recurrent abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits. You’ll learn how to recognize the major IBS subtypes, apply the Rome IV diagnostic criteria, and identify alarm features that should prompt evaluation for an alterna
GI101: Diverticulitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Diverticulitis, inflammation of colonic diverticula that commonly presents with left lower quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. You’ll learn to recognize the classic presentation, understand the role of CT imaging in diagnosis, and differentiate uncomplicated from complicated disease. We’ll
GI101: Diverticulosis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Diverticulosis, the presence of sac-like diverticula within the colon that becomes increasingly common with age. You’ll learn how diverticula form, recognize that most patients are asymptomatic, and distinguish uncomplicated diverticulosis from complications such as diverticular bleeding and diverticulitis. We’ll a
CARDIO101: Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs) from a cardiovascular perspective. You’ll learn how AVMs bypass the normal capillary bed to create high-flow shunting, how they present in the brain, lungs, and extremities, and their association with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). The episode also covers key cli
GI101: Appendicitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Appendicitis, one of the most common causes of acute abdominal pain requiring surgical intervention. You’ll learn to recognize classic symptom progression from periumbilical pain to right lower quadrant tenderness, understand key exam findings such as McBurney point tenderness and rebound pain, and review diagnosti
GI101: Small Intestine Polyps | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Small Intestine Polyps, uncommon but clinically important lesions that may present with bleeding, anemia, obstruction, or be discovered incidentally. You’ll learn about different polyp types—including adenomatous, hamartomatous, and those associated with hereditary syndromes such as Peutz-Jeghers and familial adeno
GI101: Food Allergies & Food Sensitivities | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Food Allergies and Food Sensitivities, helping you distinguish immune-mediated reactions from non-immune food intolerances. You’ll learn the difference between IgE-mediated food allergies—which can cause urticaria, angioedema, or anaphylaxis—and food sensitivities such as lactose intolerance or other non-allergic g
GI101: Lactose Intolerance | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Lactose Intolerance, a common cause of osmotic diarrhea due to lactase deficiency in the small intestine. You’ll learn how to recognize hallmark symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, abdominal cramping, and diarrhea after dairy ingestion, understand the difference between primary and secondary lactase deficiency,
GI101: Celiac Disease | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Celiac Disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion that leads to small intestinal villous atrophy and malabsorption. You’ll learn hallmark features such as chronic diarrhea, weight loss, iron deficiency anemia, and dermatitis herpetiformis, along with key diagnostic testing including tissue transg
GI101: Paralytic Ileus | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Paralytic Ileus, a functional obstruction caused by decreased intestinal motility rather than a mechanical blockage. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark features such as abdominal distention, hypoactive or absent bowel sounds, and diffuse dilation of bowel loops on imaging. We’ll also break down common causes—includ
GI101: Small Bowel Obstruction (SBO) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Small Bowel Obstruction (SBO), a common and potentially serious surgical condition. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, distention, and obstipation, understand the most common causes—including adhesions, hernias, and malignancy—and identify key imaging findings on abdominal
CARDIO101: Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, breaks down Ventricular Tachycardia (VT), a potentially life-threatening wide complex arrhythmia responsible for the majority of cardiac arrest episodes. You’ll learn to recognize key ECG features, differentiate sustained versus nonsustained VT, and distinguish monomorphic from polymorphic patterns. The episode also re
CARDIO101: Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib), a chaotic and life-threatening arrhythmia that results in immediate loss of cardiac output and sudden cardiac arrest. You’ll learn the hallmark ECG findings—absence of identifiable P waves or QRS complexes—along with the most common causes, including ischemic heart disease. The
CARDIO101: Sinus Bradycardia & Sick Sinus Syndrome | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Sinus Bradycardia and Sick Sinus Syndrome, two rhythm disturbances involving the heart’s natural pacemaker. You’ll learn when a slow heart rate is completely normal—such as in athletes or during sleep—and when it signals true sinus node dysfunction. The episode breaks down key ECG findings, symptom correlation
CARDIO101: Atrial Tachycardia | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Atrial Tachycardia, an uncommon but clinically important supraventricular arrhythmia. The episode focuses on focal atrial tachycardia—characterized by bursts of rapid, regular tachycardia originating outside the sinus node—and also briefly covers multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT), often seen in patients with
CARDIO101: Atrioventricular (AV) Blocks | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, breaks down Atrioventricular (AV) Blocks, from first-degree conduction delay to complete (third-degree) heart block. You’ll learn to recognize the ECG patterns of first-degree block, Mobitz I (Wenckebach), Mobitz II, and third-degree block, along with key memory anchors to keep them straight on exam day. The episode al
CARDIO101: Premature Atrial Complexes (PACs) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Premature Atrial Complexes (PACs), one of the most common—and usually benign—ECG findings in clinical practice. You’ll learn the key ECG features that distinguish PACs from other atrial dysrhythmias, understand common triggers such as stimulants, stress, and adrenergic excess, and recognize when PACs require tr
CARDIO101: Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs), one of the most common ventricular arrhythmias encountered in clinical practice. You’ll learn hallmark ECG features—including wide QRS complexes without preceding P waves—recognize patterns such as bigeminy and trigeminy, and understand common triggers like stress, caf
CARDIO101: Sinus Arrhythmia | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Sinus Arrhythmia, a common and typically benign variation in heart rhythm. You’ll learn how it appears on ECG, understand its relationship to respiration and vagal tone, and confidently distinguish this normal sinus variant from pathologic dysrhythmias. This quick, high-yield episode reinforces key exam concept
CARDIO101: Atrial Flutter | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Atrial Flutter, an organized atrial dysrhythmia marked by rapid atrial activity and the classic 2:1 AV block producing a ventricular rate near 150 bpm. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark ECG findings such as sawtooth flutter waves, understand stroke risk and anticoagulation considerations, and review evidence-b
CARDIO101: Atrial Fibrillation | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of CARDIO101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, breaks down Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), one of the most common and clinically significant cardiac dysrhythmias. You’ll learn how to recognize its irregularly irregular rhythm on exam and ECG, understand common triggers and underlying causes, and assess stroke risk using evidence-based tools. The episode also reviews pr
DERM101: Minor Burns | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of DERM101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Minor Burns, helping you confidently assess and manage these common injuries in primary care and urgent care settings. You’ll learn burn classification by depth and extent, practical outpatient treatment strategies, pain control considerations, and clear criteria for referral to a burn center. This high-yield epi
DERM101: Stasis Dermatitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of DERM101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Stasis Dermatitis, a common inflammatory skin condition associated with chronic venous insufficiency. You’ll learn the underlying pathophysiology, recognize hallmark clinical features such as erythema, scaling, and hyperpigmentation of the lower extremities, and explore evidence-based management strategies. This
DERM101: Pressure Injuries | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of DERM101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Pressure Injuries (formerly known as pressure ulcers), a common and preventable complication in hospitalized and long-term care patients. You’ll learn how to accurately stage these wounds, recognize high-risk patients, and implement evidence-based management strategies. The episode also highlights practical preve
DERM101: Vitiligo | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of DERM101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, dives into Vitiligo, an autoimmune condition characterized by depigmented macules and patches due to melanocyte destruction. You’ll learn the underlying pathogenesis, recognize classic clinical features, and review evidence-based management strategies tailored for primary care PAs and PA students. This episode also empha
DERM101: Petechiae, Purpura, or Ecchymoses? | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of DERM101, guest host Dr. Angelica Urbina, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, breaks down Petechiae, Purpura, and Ecchymoses—three common but often confused skin findings seen in primary care. You’ll learn the key differences in size and presentation, understand underlying causes ranging from benign trauma to serious hematologic disorders, and review high-yield clinical pearls to guide your workup
PA Week 2025 Special Episode *Previously Recorded*
In this special episode of the Pro-PA Podcast, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, celebrates PA Week 2025, reflecting on the growth, impact, and future of the Physician Assistant/Physician Associate profession. This episode was recorded in October 2025 during National PA Week and captures timely thoughts, milestones, and encouragement for both current and future PAs. Whether you'
GI101: Gastric Adenocarcinoma | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Gastric Adenocarcinoma, the most common type of stomach cancer worldwide. You’ll learn about key risk factors—including Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, chronic gastritis, and certain dietary exposures—as well as regional differences in incidence. We’ll cover hallmark presentations like unexplained weight lo
GI101: Gastroparesis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Gastroparesis, a disorder of delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction. You’ll learn about hallmark symptoms such as early satiety, postprandial fullness, nausea, vomiting, and bloating, as well as common causes like diabetes, postsurgical changes, and idiopathic cases. We’ll also cover diag
GI101: Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES), a rare disorder caused by gastrin-secreting tumors (gastrinomas) that lead to excessive gastric acid production. You’ll learn how ZES presents with refractory peptic ulcers, chronic diarrhea, and abdominal pain, understand its association with MEN1, and review diagnostic testing su
GI101: Helicobacter pylori | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, dives into Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a gram-negative bacterium strongly linked to gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastric cancer. You’ll learn about its unique mechanisms for surviving in the stomach’s acidic environment, how it damages the mucosa, and the classic clinical scenarios where testing is warranted.
GI101: Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD), a condition characterized by mucosal defects in the stomach or duodenum due to an imbalance of protective and aggressive factors. You’ll learn about common causes—including Helicobacter pylori infection, NSAID use, and hypersecretory states—classic presentations such as epigastric pain r
GI101: Gastritis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Gastritis, inflammation of the gastric mucosa that can be acute or chronic. You’ll learn the most common causes—including Helicobacter pylori, NSAID use, alcohol, and stress—along with hallmark symptoms such as epigastric pain, nausea, and bloating. We’ll also cover diagnostic evaluation with endoscopy, biopsy find
GI101: Esophageal Adenocarcinoma & Barrett’s Esophagus | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Barrett’s Esophagus—a metaplastic change of the distal esophagus caused by chronic GERD—and its progression risk to Esophageal Adenocarcinoma, the most common esophageal cancer in the United States. You’ll learn hallmark features of Barrett’s, how it differs from squamous cell carcinoma, key risk factors such as ob
GI101: Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma, the most common esophageal cancer worldwide. You’ll learn about its strong associations with tobacco, alcohol, and caustic injury, recognize hallmark symptoms such as progressive dysphagia, weight loss, and odynophagia, and understand diagnostic evaluation with endoscopy and biop
GI101: Esophageal Foreign Body | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, discusses Esophageal Foreign Bodies, a common emergency in pediatrics but also seen in adults. You’ll learn to recognize presenting symptoms such as dysphagia, drooling, chest discomfort, and inability to handle secretions, and understand which ingested objects—like button batteries or sharp items—require urgent removal. W
GI101: Esophageal Varices | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Esophageal Varices, dilated submucosal veins in the lower esophagus that develop as a complication of portal hypertension. You’ll learn to recognize clinical presentations such as hematemesis and melena, understand the role of cirrhosis and portal venous pressure in their development, and review acute management—in
GI101: Hiatal Hernia | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Hiatal Hernia, a condition in which part of the stomach herniates through the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity. You’ll learn the difference between sliding and paraesophageal hernias, recognize their association with GERD and complications like strangulation, and explore diagnostic evaluation with barium swallow
GI101: Esophageal Strictures, Webs & Rings | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Esophageal Strictures, Webs, and Rings, structural abnormalities that can narrow the esophageal lumen and cause dysphagia. You’ll learn how chronic GERD leads to peptic strictures, how esophageal webs are linked to conditions like Plummer-Vinson syndrome, and how Schatzki rings cause intermittent dysphagia to solid
GI101: Other Esophageal Motility Disorders | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Neurogenic Dysphagia, Scleroderma Esophagus, and Peptic Esophageal Strictures—three important motility-related conditions that impact swallowing and esophageal function. You’ll learn how neurogenic causes disrupt coordinated swallowing, how systemic sclerosis leads to smooth muscle atrophy and reflux complications,
GI101: Zenker Diverticulum | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Zenker Diverticulum, a pharyngoesophageal pouch that develops just above the upper esophageal sphincter. You’ll learn to recognize classic symptoms such as dysphagia, regurgitation of undigested food, chronic cough, and halitosis. We’ll also cover the pathophysiology behind cricopharyngeal dysfunction, diagnostic a
GI101: Diffuse Esophageal Spasm (DES) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, covers Diffuse Esophageal Spasm (DES), a motility disorder characterized by uncoordinated, non-peristaltic contractions of the esophagus. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark symptoms such as intermittent dysphagia and chest pain that can mimic angina, review diagnostic findings including a “corkscrew” appearance on barium s
GI101: Achalasia | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Achalasia, a rare esophageal motility disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and loss of esophageal peristalsis. You’ll learn to recognize key symptoms such as progressive dysphagia to both solids and liquids, regurgitation, and weight loss. We’ll also cover hallmark diagnos
GI101: Mallory-Weiss Tear | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Mallory-Weiss Tear, a mucosal laceration at the gastroesophageal junction caused by forceful retching, vomiting, or coughing. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark features such as hematemesis following repeated vomiting, understand the pathophysiology behind the tear, and review the diagnostic and management approach
GI101: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), a chronic condition caused by reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. You’ll learn hallmark symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and chronic cough, recognize alarm features that warrant further workup, and explore diagnostic tools from empiric PPI trials to endos
GI101: Esophagitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this first episode of GI101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, explores Esophagitis, inflammation of the esophageal lining with causes ranging from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and infections to pill-induced injury and eosinophilic disease. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark symptoms like odynophagia and chest pain, differentiate between common etiologies, and review k
EENT101: Flash PANCE Blitz | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this final episode of the EENT101 series, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, delivers a rapid-fire Flash PANCE Blitz—10 high-yield multiple-choice questions covering essential eye, ear, nose, and throat topics. Test your knowledge, sharpen your recall, and see if you can spot the correct answers before they’re revealed, all while reinforcing key concepts from the entire series. P
EENT101: Final High-Yield Review | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this capstone episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, takes you through a rapid-fire, high-yield review of the most important eye, ear, nose, and throat topics covered in the series. You’ll revisit hallmark signs, key diagnostic pearls, and must-know treatments—perfect for last-minute PANCE and PANRE prep. This concise wrap-up ties together weeks of learning into o
EENT101: Leukoplakia | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Leukoplakia, a white patch or plaque on the oral mucosa that cannot be scraped off and is considered a premalignant lesion. You’ll learn about common risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and chronic irritation, how to differentiate it from other white oral lesions, and the importance of biopsy t
EENT101: Sialadenitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, covers Sialadenitis, an infection or inflammation of the salivary glands—most commonly the parotid or submandibular glands. You’ll learn to recognize symptoms such as gland swelling, pain, erythema, and purulent duct drainage, understand common causes including bacterial infection, viral illness, and ductal obstruction,
🥳 400th Episode Special | Pop Culture Patients
In this milestone 400th episode, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, has a little fun with medicine—breaking down 10 “patients” straight from movies, TV, and other corners of pop culture. You’ll hear her take on what their likely diagnoses would be, how she’d work them up, and the treatment plans she’d recommend if they showed up in clinic. From beloved heroes to notorious villains,
EENT101: Sialolithiasis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Sialolithiasis, the formation of salivary stones—most commonly in the submandibular gland—that can obstruct salivary flow. You’ll learn how to recognize hallmark symptoms such as postprandial gland swelling and pain, understand diagnostic approaches including physical exam and imaging, and explore management stra
EENT101: Parotitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, discusses Parotitis, inflammation of the parotid gland that can be infectious, inflammatory, or obstructive in nature. You’ll learn to recognize features such as gland swelling, pain (especially with chewing), and purulent duct drainage, distinguish between bacterial, viral (including mumps), and noninfectious causes, an
EENT101: Diphtheria | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Diphtheria, a rare but serious infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark findings such as sore throat, low-grade fever, and the characteristic gray pseudomembrane over the tonsils and pharynx, understand the systemic risks from diphtheria toxin, and explore urgent managem
EENT101: Gonococcal Pharyngitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, covers Gonococcal Pharyngitis, an oropharyngeal infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. You’ll learn about common presentations—including sore throat, exudative pharyngitis, and cervical lymphadenopathy—along with asymptomatic cases often identified through screening in high-risk populations. We’ll review diagnostic t
EENT101: Mononucleosis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Infectious Mononucleosis, most often caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). You’ll learn to recognize hallmark features such as fever, pharyngitis, posterior cervical lymphadenopathy, and fatigue, understand the role of heterophile antibody testing, and review management—including activity restrictions to reduce the
EENT101: Viral Pharyngitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, discusses Viral Pharyngitis, the most common cause of sore throat, often due to adenovirus, rhinovirus, coronavirus, or influenza. You’ll learn how to differentiate viral from bacterial causes based on history and exam findings, recognize associated symptoms like cough, conjunctivitis, or rhinorrhea, and review supportiv
EENT101: Group A Strep Pharyngitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Group A Streptococcal (GAS) Pharyngitis, a bacterial infection of the oropharynx caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. You’ll learn to recognize classic features such as sudden-onset sore throat, fever, tonsillar exudates, and tender anterior cervical lymphadenopathy, apply the Centor/McIsaac criteria, and review dia
EENT101: Peritonsillar Abscess | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, covers Peritonsillar Abscess, the most common deep neck infection, typically arising as a complication of tonsillitis. You’ll learn to recognize hallmark signs such as severe unilateral sore throat, “hot potato” voice, trismus, and uvular deviation, understand the role of imaging in uncertain cases, and review urgent man
EENT101: Laryngitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Laryngitis, inflammation of the larynx often presenting with hoarseness, voice loss, and throat discomfort. You’ll learn about common viral and bacterial causes, noninfectious triggers like vocal strain and irritant exposure, and key management strategies—including voice rest, hydration, and when to consider anti
EENT101: Gingivitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, discusses Gingivitis, inflammation of the gum tissue most often caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. You’ll learn to recognize signs such as gum redness, swelling, and bleeding, understand contributing factors like poor oral hygiene, hormonal changes, and certain medications, and review prevention and treatment st
EENT101: Dental Caries | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Dental Caries, the progressive demineralization of tooth enamel and dentin caused by acid-producing bacteria. You’ll learn about key risk factors—including poor oral hygiene, high-sugar diets, and xerostomia—along with early and advanced clinical signs. We’ll also cover prevention strategies, from fluoride use an
EENT101: Dental Abscess | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, covers Dental Abscess, a localized collection of pus in the tooth or surrounding tissues caused by bacterial infection. You’ll learn to differentiate periapical, periodontal, and pericoronal abscesses, recognize warning signs of spreading infection such as facial swelling and trismus, and review management—from incision
EENT101: Deep Neck Infections | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Deep Neck Infections, including peritonsillar, parapharyngeal, and retropharyngeal space infections. You’ll learn to recognize key symptoms such as fever, neck swelling, trismus, and muffled “hot potato” voice, understand potential complications like airway compromise and mediastinitis, and explore the role of im
EENT101: Oral Candidiasis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Oral Candidiasis, a fungal infection of the oral mucosa caused by Candida species—most commonly C. albicans. You’ll learn how to recognize classic presentations like white, curd-like plaques that scrape off to reveal an erythematous base, identify risk factors such as immunosuppression and inhaled corticosteroid
EENT101: Aphthous Ulcers | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, covers Aphthous Ulcers, also known as canker sores—painful, shallow lesions of the oral mucosa with an erythematous halo. You’ll learn about potential triggers including stress, nutritional deficiencies, and autoimmune conditions, differentiate them from other oral lesions, and review management strategies to reduce pain
EENT101: Angioedema | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Angioedema, a localized, non-pitting swelling of the deeper layers of the skin and mucosa that can affect the face, lips, tongue, and airway. You’ll learn to distinguish between histamine-mediated and bradykinin-mediated causes, recognize signs of airway compromise, and explore acute management—from epinephrine a
EENT101: Sinusitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, covers Sinusitis, inflammation of the paranasal sinuses that may be acute, subacute, or chronic. You’ll learn how to differentiate viral from bacterial causes, recognize key symptoms such as facial pain, purulent nasal discharge, and congestion, and review evidence-based management—including when antibiotics are indicate
EENT101: Rhinitis | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, reviews Rhinitis, inflammation of the nasal mucosa that can be allergic, nonallergic, or infectious in origin. You’ll learn to differentiate between these subtypes based on history and exam findings, identify common triggers, and explore treatment strategies ranging from allergen avoidance and antihistamines to intranasa
EENT101: Nasal Polyps | A Clinical Medicine Brief
In this episode of EENT101, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, discusses Nasal Polyps, benign inflammatory growths of the nasal mucosa often associated with chronic rhinosinusitis, asthma, and aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease. You’ll learn how to recognize their characteristic pale, edematous appearance, understand underlying pathophysiology, and review management options inc
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