Image credit: Youtube / Dr. Death . Fair use. Dr. Death , the chilling true crime anthology series streaming on Peacock, has successfully combined the viewer appetite for gritty real-world accounts with high-stakes dramatic storytelling. Based on Wondery's acclaimed 2018 true crime podcast, the show dramatizes horrifying instances of gross medical malpractice and fraud committed by individuals trusted with patients’ lives. The first two seasons have tackled two sensational and disturbing cases: the story of neurosurgeon Christopher Duntsch in Season 1, and the exposure of surgeon and medical researcher Paolo Macchiarini in Season 2. Both seasons have been well-received, earning impressive Tomatometer ratings (93% for Season 1 and 80% for Season 2). Given this demonstrated success and the chilling nature of the source material, anticipation is high among fans who are eager to know if Dr. Death Season 3  is forthcoming on Peacock . Content ⁉️ 1️⃣ The Blueprint: Crafting the True Crime Anthology Series 2️⃣ Dr. Death Season 2: A 'Miracle Man' Exposed 3️⃣ The Crucial Question: Will Dr. Death Season 3 Happen? 4️⃣ Forecasting Future Malpractice: Potential Season 3 Stories 🔖 Key Takeaways Image credit: Men's Health / Dr. Death . Fair use. The Blueprint: Crafting the True Crime Anthology Series The premise of Dr. Death  was built specifically to allow for multiple, distinct installments. When executive producer Patrick Macmanus first pitched the show in 2018, one of the primary questions raised by studios was, "How are you going to do multiple seasons?" . Macmanus responded that, unfortunately, there are "multiple stories out there to be mined" regarding medical misconduct. The strategy for the show's continuation was always to ensure that each season could stand on its own. This means that a fan could watch Season 2 without necessarily feeling forced to view Season 1. While the cinematic style and overall feel remain similar enough to belong to the same franchise, Macmanus noted that the stories, characters, and even the "cinema" of each addition feel deliberately different. This True Crime Anthology  structure allows the series to refresh its focus with a new, equally disturbing medical villain each season. The foundational material for the show comes directly from the Wondery podcast, which has produced four total seasons. The TV show’s adaptation history, however, has not strictly followed the numerical order of the podcast. Image credit: TV Insider / Dr. Death . Fair use. Dr. Death Season 2: A 'Miracle Man' Exposed Season 2 of the Peacock  series, which debuted on December 21, dramatized the story of Dr. Paolo Macchiarini. Macchiarini, a surgeon and medical researcher, was exposed as a medical fraudster. The TV season detailed how he manipulated his patients and performed experimental surgeries, ultimately resulting in multiple fatalities. Lies and Lethal Experiments: The Paolo Macchiarini Case Macchiarini's downfall was closely tied to his relationship with news producer Benita Alexander. Alexander was drawn into his elaborate web of lies while reporting on him for a news segment. She eventually became engaged to him, leading to one of the most bizarre aspects of the scandal: Macchiarini falsely claimed that Pope Francis himself had blessed the couple and would officiate their wedding. Alexander later recounted her experience, equating the relationship to a scam. Through her interviews with podcast host Laura Beil (featured in Dr. Death: Miracle Man , Podcast Season 3), Alexander detailed how she eventually uncovered Macchiarini’s extensive deceit and his unethical practices. These practices included experimental surgeries performed on patients without their full consent, which resulted in the deaths of at least seven individuals. The success of this season, mirroring the podcast's exploration of both the professional misconduct and the personal manipulation, contributes significantly to the demand for Dr. Death Season 3 . The Crucial Question: Will Dr. Death Season 3 Happen? As of early 2024, the question of whether Dr. Death Season 3  will be greenlit by Peacock  remains officially unanswered. Since Season 2 was only recently released on December 21, 2023, the network is likely still reviewing viewership figures and ratings before making a decision to commission additional seasons. When directly asked about the future of the series, producer Ashley Michel Hoban offered a concise, yet encouraging, response to fans looking forward to Season 3. She simply urged them to "tune in"  and watch Season 2 on its debut date. This statement implies that strong performance is the crucial factor determining the show’s continuation. Given the consistently strong reviews—Season 1 averaging 93% and Season 2 averaging 80% on Rotten Tomatoes—it would not be surprising for Dr. Death  to continue with a third season. Image credit: NBC / Dr. Death . Fair use. Forecasting Future Malpractice: Potential Season 3 Stories If Peacock  commissions Dr. Death Season 3 , the creative team will look to the existing source material from the Wondery podcast to find their next subject. Since the TV series has already covered Podcast Season 1 (Duntsch) and Podcast Season 3 (Macchiarini), the next logical steps would be to adapt either Podcast Season 2 or Podcast Season 4. Farid Fata: The Story of Unnecessary Chemotherapy If the production follows the numerical order of the untapped podcast seasons, Season 3 of the TV show would likely focus on the subject of Podcast Season 2: Lebanese haematologist and oncologist Farid Fata . Fata’s case is centered on immense medical fraud. He was convicted of prescribing aggressive and unnecessary chemotherapy treatments to patients who were either not diagnosed with cancer or did not require the intense process. Fata pled guilty to multiple charges, including healthcare fraud and money laundering. This story of systemic, financially motivated cruelty would provide a distinct yet equally horrific true crime narrative, aligning with the series' goal of presenting unique standalone seasons. The other possibility for adaptation comes from Podcast Season 4, which was only released in December 2023. This season highlighted Dr. Serhat Gumrukcu . Gumrukcu garnered attention by claiming to be close to achieving a cure for both cancer and HIV, leading his biotech company to report massive sales numbers. Both Fata and Gumrukcu represent cases where medical authority was leveraged for personal gain, resulting in profound betrayal of public trust. 🔖 Key Takeaways The future of the Peacock True Crime Anthology , Dr. Death , hinges on the viewership success of its highly anticipated second season. 🗝️ Dr. Death   is an Anthology Success:  The series successfully dramatizes real medical malpractice cases, having covered Christopher Duntsch (S1) and Paolo Macchiarini (S2), achieving strong critical reviews. 🗝️ Season 3 Status is Pending:  While producers have encouraged fans to "tune in" to Season 2, suggesting viewership numbers are key, Dr. Death Season 3  has not yet been renewed. 🗝️ Potential New Stories Exist:  Drawing from the Wondery podcast, the most probable subject for a potential Season 3 is Farid Fata, the haematologist convicted of prescribing unnecessary chemotherapy. Alternatively, the series could tackle the story of Dr. Serhat Gumrukcu, who made fraudulent claims about curing HIV and cancer. 🗝️ The Goal is Autonomy:  Each season is designed to stand on its own, ensuring the new installment, if greenlit, will present a unique cinematic and narrative experience while maintaining the overall unsettling theme of medical betrayal. 🌐 External sources Will Dr. Death Season 3 Happen? Producer Shares Blunt Response ‘Dr. Death’ Season 3 Tells True Crime Story of Italian Surgeon Will 'Dr. Death' Return for a Third Season?

The global struggle against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) has been defined by scarcity and limited innovation, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting "too few antibacterials in the pipeline". The crisis is urgent, claiming 1.1 million victims annually. However, a promising new Antibiotic Discovery  from chemists at the University of Warwick and Monash University suggests that some of our most powerful weapons may have been right under our noses. Researchers have identified a potent new antibiotic, pre-methylenomycin C lactone , that was literally "hiding in plain sight". This compound is not entirely new to science but was overlooked because it is an intermediate chemical in the natural process that produces the much older, well-known antibiotic methylenomycin A. Co-lead author Professor Greg Challis explained that while methylenomycin A was first discovered 50 years ago, no one had previously tested its synthetic intermediates for antimicrobial activity. By deleting biosynthetic genes, the researchers discovered two previously unknown intermediates, both of which proved to be significantly more potent than methylenomycin A itself. The most impressive finding centered on pre-methylenomycin C lactone . When tested, it demonstrated activity over 100 times more potent  against diverse Gram-positive bacteria than the original methylenomycin A. Critically, this activity extends to major Drug-Resistant Bacteria , including S. aureus  (the species behind MRSA) and E. faecium  (the species behind VRE, or Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus ). The breakthrough is especially encouraging concerning VRE, which the WHO lists as a High Priority Pathogen. The research team observed that Enterococcus  bacteria did not develop resistance to pre-methylenomycin C lactone  under laboratory conditions that typically trigger resistance to vancomycin—a treatment considered the "last line" of defense. A truly surprising element of this Antibiotic Discovery  is that the compound is produced by Streptomyces coelicolor , a model antibiotic-producing bacterium that has been extensively studied since the 1950s. Dr. Lona Alkhalaf noted that finding a new antibiotic in such a familiar organism was a "real surprise," suggesting that S. coelicolor  might have initially evolved to produce the powerful pre-methylenomycin C lactone  before changing it into the weaker methylenomycin A over time. Professor Challis believes this successful identification of an intermediate suggests a "new paradigm for antibiotic discovery". Instead of relying solely on entirely novel compounds, chemists can now systematically identify and test intermediates in the production pathways of known natural compounds, potentially uncovering potent new antibiotics with better resilience against resistance. The development path for pre-methylenomycin C lactone  appears promising. It possesses a simple structure, potent activity, a "difficult to resist profile," and, crucially, a scalable synthesis route has already been reported in the Journal of Organic Chemistry . The next step for this candidate in the fight against Drug-Resistant Bacteria  is pre-clinical testing. 🔖 Sources Novel antibiotic shows activity against WHO high priority pathogen VRE Scientists find potent new antibiotic hidden in familiar bacteria WHO releases new reports on new tests and treatments in development for bacterial infections Chemists discover antibiotic for drug-resistant bacteria 'hiding in plain sight'

Medical educators and health professionals are raising urgent concerns about new federal student loan limits established in President Donald Trump’s tax cut law, warning the policy could create insurmountable financial barriers for aspiring doctors and intensify the national physician shortage . The new federal loan caps, enacted via GOP legislation signed in July, restrict professional degree students to borrowing a maximum of $50,000 annually, capped at $200,000 total . This limit falls drastically short of the financial reality of medical education. For students graduating this year from a four-year U.S. medical school, the median cost of attendance was $318,825 . Critics fear these new rules, which bring back caps eliminated by Congress in 2006, will significantly harm Medical School Access , particularly for individuals from low-income backgrounds. Deena McRae, associate vice president for academic health sciences at University of California Health, stated that the growing financial barriers may deter some individuals from pursuing medicine, especially those who are low-income. Furthermore, experts warn that the heightened economic burden will steer many future physicians toward lucrative specialties in affluent, urban areas, rather than directing them toward lower-paying primary care jobs in underserved and rural communities , where the doctor shortage is most acute. The policy is intended to save the federal government $349 billion over a decade. Congressional Republicans argue the Federal Loan Caps  are necessary to stem the sharp rise in federal student lending since 2006, which they believe has driven attendance costs higher. Sara Robertson, a spokesperson for the House Committee on Education and Workforce, asserted that uncapped loan limits provided no incentive for schools to reduce costs. However, opponents counter that limiting federal lending is not the solution. Students impacted by the new caps (effective July 1) will be forced to take out private sector loans  to cover the difference. This is a "heavy lift" for low-income students, as private loans typically lack the benefits of federal options, such as income-calibrated repayments and critical debt forgiveness paths like the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. In light of the new constraints, health care leaders agree that medical schools must immediately pursue creative solutions to lower costs . One timely option is the expansion of accelerated programs  that allow students to graduate in three years rather than four, reducing costs by 25% and moving students more quickly into paid employment. Roughly a fifth of MD-granting medical schools already offer accelerated programs. Analysis shows students in three-year tracks gain a lifetime financial benefit exceeding $240,000, due to cost savings and faster career progression. For prospective doctors like Zoe Priddy, a student in a three-year program at UNC, the lower debt associated with the accelerated track eased her decision to pursue pediatrics, a lower-paying specialty. These accelerated programs are now seen as a vital tool not only for cost reduction but also for addressing the healthcare workforce crisis by training doctors faster. As the CEO of L.A. Care, Martha Santana-Chin, noted, this moment provides an opportunity for medical schools to rethink how the system is working and reduce the total cost of medical school. 🔖 Sources Many Fear Federal Loan Caps Will Deter Aspiring Doctors and Worsen MD Shortage Many fear federal loan caps will deter aspiring doctors and worsen MD shortage New federal student loan limits are a 'punch in the face' for aspiring doctors: American Medical Association president Many fear federal loan caps will deter aspiring doctors and worsen MD shortage

The Phase 3 APOLLOE4 trial evaluating the investigational oral drug valiltramiprosate (ALZ-801)  has delivered crucial, albeit mixed, results that underscore the importance of precision medicine and early intervention in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) . This trial uniquely focused on APOEε4/ε4 homozygotes , a population representing about 15% of all AD cases who carry the highest genetic risk and experience accelerated disease progression. Valiltramiprosate  is described as a small-molecule inhibitor designed to act upstream in the amyloid cascade by blocking the formation of neurotoxic soluble beta-amyloid oligomers, protecting neurons from harm. This mechanism differentiates it from antibody infusions that remove plaques later in the disease process. The 78-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial enrolled 325 participants with Early AD , encompassing both Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and mild dementia. In the overall Early AD population , the study did not meet its primary endpoint  of significantly slowing cognitive decline as measured by the AD Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog13). However, the findings shifted dramatically when researchers examined the imaging data and a prespecified subgroup. In the overall efficacy population, the drug showed significant slowing of brain atrophy , specifically an 18% benefit on hippocampal volume compared with placebo. This suggested potential neuroprotective benefits across the cohort. The most compelling data emerged from the prespecified analysis of patients at the MCI stage , the earliest symptomatic phase of AD. In this MCI group (N=125), oral valiltramiprosate  demonstrated nominally significant positive effects  on cognition (52% benefit on ADAS-Cog13, nominal p =0.041) and daily functioning (96% benefit on Disability Assessment for Dementia [DAD], nominal p =0.016). A positive trend was also observed on the Clinical Dementia Rating–Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) (102% benefit, nominal p =0.053). Furthermore, the neuroprotective effects were more pronounced in the MCI group, showing a significant 26% slowing of hippocampal atrophy . Imaging techniques, including diffusion tensor imaging (MRI-DTI), confirmed preservation of neurons and brain tissue, demonstrating positive grey and white matter effects and reduced water diffusivity—all indicative of slowed neurodegeneration. Crucially for this high-risk genetic group, the treatment presented a favorable safety profile . Unlike some anti-amyloid immunotherapies that carry risks of brain edema or microhemorrhages (ARIA), valiltramiprosate showed no increased risk of these ARIA events. The most common adverse events were gastrointestinal, including nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. These results strongly suggest that for APOE4/4  homozygotes, treatment effectiveness hinges on timing, with the greatest benefit achieved when intervention occurs at the MCI stage . Oral valiltramiprosate (ALZ-801)  may offer a safer and simpler treatment paradigm for this genetically vulnerable group. 🔖 Sources First Alzheimer's pill for genetically at high risk shows promise in phase 3 trial Valiltramiprosate Demonstrates Greater Promise in Earlier Stages of Alzheimer Disease, Phase 3 APOLLOE4 Study Shows Topline Results from Pivotal APOLLOE4 Phase 3 Trial of Oral Valiltramiprosate/ALZ-801 in Patients with Early Alzheimer’s Disease Carrying Two Copies of APOE4 Gene Clinical Efficacy, Safety and Imaging Effects of Oral Valiltramiprosate in APOEε4/ε4 Homozygotes with Early Alzheimer's Disease: Results of the Phase III, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, 78-Week APOLLOE4 Trial

New York City has taken a commanding lead in tackling healthcare affordability, with Mayor Eric Adams announcing the cancellation of nearly $135 million in medical debt  for over 75,000 residents. This massive intervention was a key commitment laid out in the Mayor's State of the City address last year, and it is part of a wider initiative aimed at eliminating $2 billion in debt for approximately 500,000 patients. The current relief effort stems from a three-year, $18 million investment launched by the city, working in partnership with the nonprofit organization Undue Medical Debt. This program functions by acquiring qualifying medical debt portfolios, often at "pennies on the dollar," and then erasing the debt, ensuring recipients owe nothing and face no tax penalty. Residents who qualify for this one-time relief are automatically notified by Undue Medical Debt. Eligibility for the NYC Medical Debt Relief  program is based on financial need, requiring that the New Yorker’s debt has been acquired and that they meet one of two criteria: having an annual household income at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Line, or having medical debt equal to 5% or more of their annual household income. Mayor Adams stressed that for too long, medical debt has acted as a barrier to receiving necessary health care and served as a major financial and emotional stressor for families. Financial experts agree that carrying medical debt can severely undermine financial stability by negatively affecting credit scores. Michelle Morse, M.D., NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene acting commissioner, highlighted that eliminating medical debt is a necessity, as many New Yorkers are forced to choose between their health and basic needs like food or housing. By providing this relief, the city is granting residents the freedom to prioritize their health and making the city more accessible. Crucially, the initiative extends beyond simply erasing existing debt; it focuses on Financial Empowerment  to prevent future crises. The city announced the opening of eight new financial empowerment centers at select NYC Health + Hospitals locations across the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens. These centers offer free, one-on-one counseling and coaching services designed to support long-term financial planning, debt management, and credit repair. Locations include NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, Jacobi, Kings County, and Elmhurst, among others. These additions expand the city’s resources, which now include more than 40 financial centers. While New York City advances its local Public Health  and financial stability agenda, other parts of the country face ongoing challenges in the healthcare landscape. In Florida, the CEO of the Florida Hospital Association, Mary Mayhew, detailed the increasingly uncertain financial struggles of rural hospitals, using DeSoto Memorial Hospital as a poignant example. Across the USF Tampa area, a study revealed that levels of PFAS, often called "forever chemicals," in the municipal drinking water supplies were six times higher than the recommended limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency, raising significant environmental health concerns. Meanwhile, regulatory approaches vary greatly; Idaho recently passed legislation—hailed by activists as the first true “medical freedom” bill—that effectively bans vaccine mandates, chipping away at traditional public health foundations. Conversely, the Kane County Health Department in Illinois launched an education campaign to ensure residents have access to "clear, trustworthy information" regarding vaccines and respiratory illnesses. Finally, relief efforts faced setbacks when Maryland Governor Wes Moore criticized FEMA's denial of federal disaster relief following flooding in May, calling the agency’s decision "deeply frustrating" and stating it "leaves Marylanders on their own".ss, financial stability, and environmental safety. 🔖 Sources New York City cancels $135M in medical debt, opens hospital financial centers NYC Wipes Out $135M In Medical Debt, Easing Burden For 75,000 Residents NYC cancels $135M in medical debt for 75,000 New Yorkers: ‘Peace of mind’ Thousands of New Yorkers getting medical debt relief through $18 million city investment

Gastrointestinal Cancer (GI cancer), encompassing malignancies like colorectal, gastric, esophageal, pancreatic, and liver cancers, presents an immense global health challenge, accounting for approximately one-quarter of all cancer diagnoses  and one-third of cancer-related deaths worldwide . New research offers a pivotal shift in understanding these aggressive diseases by illuminating how the nervous system actively promotes tumor survival. Australian researchers have identified a novel mechanism  centering on two key nervous system components: the sensory neuropeptide Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP)  and its co-receptor, Receptor Activity Modifying Protein 1 (RAMP1) . Both CGRP and RAMP1 were found to be significant drivers of tumor proliferation  in colorectal and stomach cancers. This breakthrough confirms the profound, often critical, role of neurobiology in cancer progression. The human GI tract possesses its own intricate network, the enteric nervous system (ENS) , commonly referred to as the “second brain” . Within the tumor microenvironment (TME), CGRP is present in nerve fibers infiltrating the tissue. Critically, the sources reveal that the cancer cells themselves aberrantly synthesize CGRP , thereby establishing an autocrine signaling loop that maliciously sustains the malignancy. Researchers employed sophisticated genetic engineering techniques  to selectively knock out the RAMP1  receptor gene in cancer cells, resulting in a marked attenuation of tumor growth . This experimental confirmation underscores RAMP1’s vital role in this proliferative pathway. The discovery dovetails with broader findings in neuro-oncology, which examines the indispensable roles of the nervous system in GI tumorigenesis and malignancy. Beyond CGRP/RAMP1, neural signaling pathways involving neuropeptides, β -adrenergic receptors ( β -ARs), and acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) fuel aggressive tumor characteristics such as invasion, chemoresistance, and immune evasion. Furthermore, external factors like chronic stress  are linked to increased GI cancer risk, often operating via neuroendocrine pathways that promote systemic low-grade inflammation. Perhaps the most compelling implication of the CGRP/RAMP1 finding is its high translational potential  for drug repurposing . Existing pharmaceutical agents designed to target CGRP and RAMP1 are already approved  and widely prescribed for treating migraine headaches. This offers a unique opportunity to circumvent the time-consuming process typically associated with developing new cancer drugs, dramatically shortening the timeline for clinical application . As lead author Dr. Pavitha Parathan noted, existing CGRP-inhibiting drugs provide a readily available means to disrupt this nerve-tumor crosstalk, potentially halting cancer progression  using agents that are already well-tolerated . Dr. Lisa Mielke confirmed that the next phase involves evaluating the efficacy of existing migraine medications  to combat colorectal cancer, with the aim of incorporating them into clinical trials alongside conventional therapies. This novel, neurologically targeted approach is poised to usher in a new era of precision oncology. 🔖 Sources Researchers identify nervous system components driving gastrointestinal cancer growth Emerging Roles of the Nervous System in Gastrointestinal Cancer Development Key Nervous System Components Found to Regulate Gastrointestinal Tumor Growth The nerve cells in gastrointestinal cancers: from molecular mechanisms to clinical intervention

A significant piece of research presented at IDWeek 2025 is reshaping the conversation around adult immunization, suggesting that the Shingles vaccine  offers substantial protection far beyond preventing the painful rash associated with herpes zoster. The study, analyzing electronic health records from over 174,000 patients aged 50 and older, found that vaccination is tied to significant reductions in the risks of dementia , heart disease , and death. The findings, presented by researchers from Case Western Reserve University, indicate that the shingles vaccine (such as Shingrix, recommended for those 50 and older) may be a powerful tool against major cardiovascular and neurological complications. Compared to pneumococcal vaccination, receiving the Shingles vaccine  was associated with a 50% lower risk of vascular dementia . This protection extended clearly into cardiovascular health: vaccinated adults saw a 27% reduction in the risk of blood clots  and a 25% lower risk of heart attack or stroke . Furthermore, the study noted a 21% lower risk of death . As Dr. Ali Dehghani, doctor of internal medicine and the presenting author, noted, "Shingles is more than just a rash—it can raise the risk of serious problems for the heart and brain". Shingles is known to trigger cardiovascular and neurologic complications, and experts suggest these new findings support the idea that the Shingles vaccine  prevents these complications by controlling the widespread inflammation caused by the virus. Dr. Dehghani emphasized that the vaccine's benefits may extend far beyond preventing the infection itself, highlighting how reducing inflammation early can have lasting effects on the heart, brain, and overall survival. In Other Public Health News While vaccination against shingles takes the spotlight, infectious disease activity remains a concern across the US and globally: Mpox Update:  California officials are tracking community spread of the more severe Clade 1 mpox. Three recent cases were locally acquired in Los Angeles County, meaning the individuals had not traveled internationally. All three patients required hospitalization, indicating that person-to-person spread is occurring, primarily impacting communities of gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men. State officials urge people who may be at risk to receive both doses of the Jynneos mpox vaccine. Measles Warning:  Officials in Minnesota confirmed a new measles case in an unvaccinated child under the age of five from Olmsted County who had a recent history of international travel. This brings the state's total to at least 21 cases this year. County officials stressed that immunization with the MMR vaccine is the best preventive measure. Global Antibiotic Concerns:  An analysis of antibiotic sales data from 2010 through 2021 revealed shifting global consumption patterns. While consumption decreased in most high-income countries, it increased in most upper-middle-income and low- and middle-income countries. Increases were particularly noted in the WHO Southeast Asian and African regions. Despite a rise in the use of WHO-recommended "Access" group antibiotics, many countries, including India, China, South Korea, and Japan, still fall short of the WHO target of 60% consumption for Access-group antibiotics, highlighting an urgent need to strengthen monitoring systems. 🔖 Sources Shingles vaccine may offer protection against vascular dementia, heart disease Shingles vaccine tied to significant reductions in risk of dementia, heart disease, and death Shingles Vaccine Lowers Risk of Dementia, Major Cardiovascular Events Shingles Vaccination Also Reduces Risk of Dementia and Heart Disease

Elevance Health, the Indianapolis-based insurer, kicked off the health insurance earnings cycle this week by reporting financial results for the third quarter of 2025 that largely outperformed analyst expectations. The company achieved net income of $1.2 billion, marking a 17% increase year-over-year (YOY). Operating revenues advanced 12% YOY, reaching $50.1 billion or $50.7 billion, depending on the report. The adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $6.03 surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 21.1%. This strong performance was attributed primarily to higher premiums and controlled medical costs for members. The Health Benefits segment benefited from increasing Medicare Advantage (MA) membership growth and higher premium yields. The health services division, Carelon, also posted a robust revenue surge, increasing operating revenue by 33% to $18.3 billion, driven by recent acquisitions in home health and pharmacy services and the scaling of risk-based solutions. Despite the strong financial metrics, not all segments were flawless. The overall medical membership dipped by 0.9% YOY, largely due to ongoing Medicaid eligibility reverifications. Additionally, operating income for both Health Benefits and Carelon came in below analyst expectations, citing significant planned operational investments, including in technology. The medical loss ratio (MLR)—a key benchmark tracking spending on patient care—was 91.3%, an increase from 89.5% the prior year, reflecting elevated cost trends in the Medicare business, though still better than analyst forecasts. While the current results were positive, executives provided an early outlook that signaled potential profit constraints beginning in 2026. Elevance is the first major insurer to release earnings this cycle, and its executives gave investors a "gift" of early insight due to significant volatility currently impacting the sector. The primary concern centers on Medicaid Challenges and Profit Outlook . Elevance expects its Medicaid margins to decline by at least 125 basis points (1.25 percentage points) in 2026 compared to this year. Insurers have complained that state payment rates are lagging the actual cost of providing care, especially since policy shifts following the pandemic left them with a sicker Medicaid population. CFO Mark Kaye stated that while state rate updates are expected to be modestly above historical levels, they will "still trail trend into 2026". This warning bodes ill for other managed care organizations with substantial Medicaid presence, such as Molina and Centene. Future profit growth will also be stifled by several hundred million dollars in planned investments focusing on the Carelon division, artificial intelligence capabilities, and Medicare Advantage star ratings. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace presents another moving target. The potential expiration of generous ACA subsidies remains a driving policy issue. If subsidies expire, an estimated 4 million to 5 million people are expected to lose coverage, leading to a "material contraction in the ACA marketplace". Insurers expect the remaining enrollees to be sicker and therefore more costly, necessitating sharper premium increases. Elevance CEO Gail Boudreaux confirmed the company is prepared for a range of policy outcomes. In response to challenges in government programs, Elevance is already adjusting its strategy for 2026. The insurer elected to trim its Medicare Advantage footprint and entirely exit Medicare’s prescription drug plan market. Instead, it is pushing HMO plans—which allow greater control over costs—and dual Medicare-Medicaid plans, which typically offer a higher margin, in a bid to improve overall profitability. Ultimately, earnings pressure in Medicaid and the ACA, coupled with increased internal investments, points toward lower profit growth in 2026 before a potential recovery is anticipated in 2027. The company plans to provide specific earnings guidance in January 2026, once there is greater clarity on updated Medicaid rates and the status of the ACA subsidies. 🔖 Sources Elevance reports 17% gain in profits, hitting $1.2 billion in Q3 Elevance outperforms in third quarter but warns of Medicaid challenges Elevance Health Q3 Earnings Beat Estimates on Strong MA Membership

Season 12 of Grey's Anatomy  marked a new chapter for Grey Sloan Memorial, navigating a post-Derek Shepherd world and forcing the surgeons, especially Meredith, to redefine their lives and careers. The season was characterized by high-intensity cases that tested the boundaries of modern medicine and the resilience of the doctors themselves. From a catastrophic "wishbone" pelvic injury and a groundbreaking 3D-printed sternum to the personal horror of Meredith's violent assault by a patient, the medical storylines were deeply intertwined with themes of recovery, innovation, and the immense psychological toll of the job. Content ⁉️ 1️⃣ Episode 1 2️⃣ Episode 2 3️⃣ Episode 3 4️⃣ Episode 4 5️⃣ Episode 5 6️⃣ Episode 6 7️⃣ Episode 7 8️⃣ Episode 8 9️⃣ Episode 9 🔟 Episode 10 1️⃣1️⃣ Episode 11 1️⃣2️⃣ Episode 12 1️⃣3️⃣ Episode 13 1️⃣4️⃣ Episode 14 1️⃣5️⃣ Episode 15 1️⃣6️⃣ Episode 16 1️⃣7️⃣ Episode 17 1️⃣8️⃣ Episode 18 1️⃣9️⃣ Episode 19 2️⃣0️⃣ Episode 20 2️⃣1️⃣ Episode 21 2️⃣2️⃣ Episode 22 2️⃣3️⃣ Episode 23 2️⃣4️⃣ Episode 24 🔖 Key Takeaways Episode 1: "Sledgehammer" Polytrauma with Catastrophic Wishbone Injury Two teenage girls, Jessica  and Aliyah , were struck by a train in a joint suicide pact. Aliyah's  injuries were catastrophic, including a severe "wishbone injury"—a pelvic fracture that "split her insides apart" and tore one leg completely away. During surgery, she began bleeding out from a lacerated pulmonary artery . An attending surgeon, Dr. Tracy McConnell, advised an immediate sternotomy to gain control, and the laceration was repaired with a pericardial patch. Jess  sustained a hemothorax, internal bleeding requiring an ex-lap, and multiple leg fractures that needed immediate surgery to prevent loss of use. Other Conditions Mentioned: Hemothorax:  Blood in the chest cavity, requiring a chest tube. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI):  Investigated in Aliyah due to sluggish pupils. Lacerated Pulmonary Artery:  The critical vascular injury that nearly killed Aliyah. Open Cholecystectomy:  A gallbladder removal for a patient in severe pain. Episode 2: "Walking Tall" Pituitary Tumor and Complicated Spinal Fracture Jade Bell (7'2")  presented with a headache and blurry vision after fainting. Dr. Bailey diagnosed a pituitary adenoma  (tumor) that was secreting 16 times the normal amount of growth hormone. The fall also caused an unstable spinal fracture . Positioning her for a craniotomy would have caused paralysis, so a complex combined procedure was planned. Dr. Shepherd removed the tumor via an endonasal approach  while Dr. Pierce simultaneously repaired the spine. During the procedure, the left carotid artery was struck , but Dr. Avery improvised a repair using a muscle patch and glue. Other Conditions Mentioned: MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome):  A highly contagious illness suspected in a patient with a rash and fever, which turned out to be Contact Dermatitis . Carotid Artery Bleed:  The life-threatening complication during the pituitary surgery. Endonasal Approach:  The surgical route through the nose to the pituitary. Episode 3: "I Choose You" Hepatoblastoma in Newborn Twins Newborn twins, Emma and Daniel , were diagnosed with Hepatoblastoma , an aggressive liver cancer, which was already causing early heart and renal failure. Both required liver transplants, but only one living donor (the father, Mason) was a match. Dr. Karev was forced to choose which twin would receive the liver. He opened both babies in the OR and gave the liver to Emma , whose case appeared stronger. He then attempted a primary resection on Daniel . Emma's transplant was a "perfect anastomosis" and she recovered. Tragically, Daniel's hepatic vein began leaking during the resection, and he arrested and died. Other Conditions Mentioned: Hepatoblastoma:  The aggressive liver cancer affecting both twins. Jaundice and Respiratory Distress:  The presenting symptoms in the newborns. Renal Failure:  A complication of the tumor invasion in both babies. Primary Resection:  The attempted procedure to save Daniel's original liver. Episode 4: "Old Time Rock and Roll" Post-Craniotomy Recovery: Early Ambulation Protocol Rachel Bishop (32)  was one day post-op from a decompressive craniotomy . Dr. Shepherd initiated an aggressive early ambulation protocol , based on new studies suggesting it leads to faster recovery. This involved pushing the patient to her "point of intolerance," which caused severe distress and vomiting, but ultimately led to her taking her first steps. Fatal Drug Interaction During "Silver Flood" A "silver flood" mass casualty event (a shuttle bus crash of senior citizens) brought in multiple trauma victims. Gabby Margraff  was diagnosed with a diaphragmatic rupture  and a splenic hematoma , requiring immediate surgery. Eddie Squire  presented with chest pains. He vehemently denied taking E.D. medication. When he was given nitroglycerin , his blood pressure "bottomed out," indicating a dangerous drug interaction. He went into cardiac arrest and died. Other Conditions Mentioned: Decompressive Craniotomy:  The procedure to relieve pressure on the brain. Early Ambulation Protocol:  The aggressive new recovery protocol for neuro patients. Drug Interaction (Nitroglycerin & ED medication):  The fatal combination that killed Eddie Squire. Episode 5: "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" Fatal Traumatic Brain Injury and Medical Mismanagement This episode revisits the death of Dr. Derek Shepherd  from the perspective of Dr. Penny Blake , the resident who treated him at Dillard Medical Center. She recounts the critical diagnostic failure: Derek presented as a "John Doe" trauma with a flail chest  and a brain bleed . Penny recognized he needed a head CT , but her attending, fearing he would "bottom out in the scanner" due to a suspected abdominal bleed, rushed him to an exploratory laparotomy instead. The delayed diagnosis of the internal head trauma and the late arrival of the on-call neurosurgeon made the brain injury non-survivable. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) and STD Screening Dr. Maggie Pierce  presented with a "raging UTI," fearing it could be an STD  like chlamydia or gonorrhea after having sex with an intern. She requested a full STD panel and was provisionally treated for a UTI. Other Conditions Mentioned: Flail Chest:  One of Derek's presenting injuries. Missed Brain Bleed:  The fatal diagnostic error in Derek's case. UTI (Urinary Tract Infection):  Maggie's painful diagnosis. Episode 6: "The Me Nobody Knows" Ollier's Disease with Precancerous Transformation Kamal , a young boy from Jordan, was diagnosed with Ollier's Disease , a rare skeletal disorder causing multiple cartilaginous tumors. His case was advanced, with massive tumors in both hands. A biopsy confirmed precancerous cells . Dr. Avery initially recommended bilateral amputation, but was convinced to attempt a salvage procedure. He performed a debulking and complex reconstruction using rib grafts  to rebuild viable carpal and metacarpal bones. Grade IV Renal Trauma Robert Matthews , a pastor, fell down two flights of stairs. A CT scan revealed retroperitoneal fluid around his right kidney, diagnosed as a Grade IV kidney injury  with active extravasation (bleeding). He underwent a partial nephrectomy. A post-op clot in his Foley catheter  caused his bladder to nearly rupture, requiring an emergency flush. Other Conditions Mentioned: Ollier's Disease:  The rare skeletal disorder causing multiple enchondromas. Grade IV Kidney Injury:  A severe renal trauma with active bleeding. Partial Nephrectomy:  The surgical repair to save the kidney. Clot in Foley Catheter:  A post-op complication that caused bladder distension. Episode 7: "Something Against You" End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and Osteosarcoma Simon Jaffee  was admitted for a kidney transplant, requiring a rare six-antigen match. During his pre-op workup, a mass on his head, which he thought was a cyst, was diagnosed as Osteosarcoma  (bone cancer) involving the frontal and occipital bone. This cancer diagnosis would normally disqualify him from the transplant. In an innovative solution, surgeons performed a combined kidney transplant  and a skull and scalp transplant  from the same  perfect-match donor, successfully treating both conditions at once. Other Conditions Mentioned: Osteosarcoma:  The bone cancer found on Simon's skull. Dual Transplant (Kidney and Skull/Scalp):  The innovative solution using a single perfect-match donor. Foreign Body Ingestion:  A patient with intellectual disabilities swallowed a blinking ball. Bowel Perforation (Risk):  The battery in the swallowed ball was leaking acid. Episode 8: "Things We Lost in the Fire" Penetrating Cardiac Trauma (Ruptured Heart Wall) A massive wildfire sent over 40 injured firefighters to the hospital. The most critical was John , Dr. Hunt's mother's boyfriend. He had fallen into a ravine and was impaled on a steel spike , which was acting as a plug. He had blood in his pericardium . In the OR, the injury was found to be a rupture in the heart wall . The tear was successfully repaired with a pledgeted stitch, and the patient survived. Other Conditions Mentioned: Second, third, and fourth-degree burns:  Classifications of severe thermal injuries from the fire. Smoke inhalation:  A widespread respiratory injury among the firefighters. Abdominal Pedicle Flap:  A living graft planned to reconstruct a full-thickness burn on a patient's hand and forearm. Rhabdomyolysis (Rhabdo):  Muscle breakdown complications leading to arrhythmias. Episode 9: "The Sound of Silence" Severe Blunt Force Trauma (Dr. Meredith Grey) Dr. Meredith Grey  was violently assaulted by a patient, Lou , who was in a postictal state following a tonic-clonic seizure  (caused by an epidural hematoma ). Meredith's injuries were severe and extensive: Thoracic Injuries:  A 30% pneumothorax  (lung collapse) requiring a chest tube, and multiple rib fractures  with palpable crepitus. Maxillofacial Trauma:  A dislocated and possibly fractured jaw  that had to be reduced for intubation and then wired shut. Neurological Trauma:  A positive Battle's sign  (indicating a basilar skull fracture) and temporary deafness . Other Injuries:  A dislocated left elbow  and local edema. She was bedridden for weeks and required extensive recovery, including voice rest for a tracheal injury. Other Conditions Mentioned: Epidural Hematoma:  The diagnosis for the patient who attacked Meredith. Tonic-Clonic Seizure:  The neurological event that led to the postictal, hyper-aggressive state. Pneumothorax:  A 30% lung collapse sustained by Meredith. Dislocated Jaw:  Required reduction and wiring. Temporary Deafness:  A neurological consequence of the assault. Episode 10: "All I Want Is You" Chondrosarcoma (Recurrent Bone Cancer) Maya Roberts (15)  had a recurrence of chondrosarcoma , with tumors in her ribs and sternum. The conventional treatment was excision and reconstruction with titanium plates, which would require multiple revision surgeries as she grew. Drs. Pierce and Torres proposed a groundbreaking alternative: excising the tumors and replacing the bone with a 3D-printed, custom-built sternum and ribs . During the complex surgery, the implant didn't fit, requiring the team to retract her rib cage, risking a punctured lung or heart. The procedure was ultimately successful. Other Conditions Mentioned: Chondrosarcoma:  The type of bone cancer Maya had. 3D-printed reconstruction:  The innovative custom-built sternum and ribs. Deep Liver Laceration:  A severe internal injury from an ambulance explosion. Retrohepatic IVC Damage:  A major vascular injury near the liver. Episode 11: "Unbreak My Heart" Severe Facial Trauma Requiring Extensive Reconstruction This episode revisits the case of Tatiana , a patient who had acid thrown on her face. Her treatment spanned four years and 43 surgeries  led by Dr. Avery. The case highlights her long and difficult journey, including setbacks like necrosis  and the dying of a paramedian forehead flap . The final planned surgery was a nasal septum reconstruction. Other Conditions Mentioned: C6-C7 Unstable Fracture:  A severe, unstable fracture in the cervical spine. Necrosis:  The death of tissue, which complicated the facial reconstruction. Facial Reanimation Surgery:  A specialized procedure to restore movement to the face. Episode 12: "My Next Life" New Onset Frontal Lobe Aneurysm Katie Bryce , a patient from Season 1, returned with a new onset headache and transient numbness. The final diagnosis was a new, massive frontal lobe aneurysm , described as a "live grenade." Dr. Amelia Shepherd successfully clipped the fragile aneurysm, and the patient recovered with no neurological deficits. Septicemia Secondary to Infected Portacath Daphne , a patient who was 10 months cancer-free, presented with an infected portacath . Upon removal, the site bled profusely. Labs confirmed Septicemia  with a Pseudomonas  infection. Despite pressure and clotting factors, the sepsis caused her organs to fail, and she died. Other Conditions Mentioned: Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH):  Katie Bryce's original diagnosis from Season 1. Septicemia:  The body-wide infection that killed Daphne. Pseudomonas:  The specific bacteria identified in the infection. Episode 13: "All Eyez on Me" Osteosarcoma of the Pelvis and Sacrum Sergeant Carson , a military patient, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma  spanning his left pelvis, lumbar spine, and sacrum. Dr. Torres proposed a radical, multi-stage procedure: a hemipelvectomy  (amputating the leg and half the pelvis) and using vascularized fibular grafts  from the amputated leg to attach his remaining leg to his spine. When a pre-op fall fractured his pelvis, the team was forced to operate immediately. Dr. Torres innovated mid-procedure, using the patient's own femur as a replacement sacrum . Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome Maxine (17) , a cheerleader, collapsed with a high pulse and dangerously elevated blood pressure. She was diagnosed with WPW syndrome , a congenital heart condition. Her acute event, triggered by stress, caused coronary artery spasming. She required cardioversion  and an immediate cardiac ablation  to correct the abnormal heart rhythm. Other Conditions Mentioned: Hemipelvectomy:  The amputation of the leg and half the pelvis. Vascularized fibular grafts:  The original plan for the spinal reconstruction. Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome:  The congenital heart condition causing arrhythmias. Cardiac Ablation:  The procedure to fix the WPW. Episode 14: "Odd Man Out" Fatal Intracranial Hemorrhage Griffin McColl (75)  was electrocuted after crashing his car. He required surgery for both a cracked skull  and an erratic heart rhythm (requiring a pacemaker). Post-operatively, he exhibited confusion and memory loss. He then showed classic signs of raised ICP, including bradycardia and a dilated pupil. An emergency ventriculostomy (burr hole)  was performed, but a re-bleed was discovered. He was diagnosed with brain death  due to herniation. Preterm Labor in Quadruplet Pregnancy Courtney Hall , 23 weeks pregnant with quadruplets, went into preterm labor . Dr. Robbins proposed a high-risk delayed interval delivery : she delivered "Baby C" (Charles), cut his umbilical cord, and re-sewed the cervix shut, leaving the other three fetuses inside to continue gestating. Investigation of Fetal Osteogenesis Imperfecta (O.I.) April Kepner , 12 weeks pregnant, was urged to undergo testing for Osteogenesis Imperfecta (O.I.)  due to her history. She refused testing, traumatized by her previous loss. Other Conditions Mentioned: Electrocution:  The cause of Mr. McColl's injuries. Delayed interval delivery:  The experimental procedure to save the remaining quadruplets. Osteogenesis Imperfecta (O.I.):  The genetic condition April was being tested for. Episode 15: "I Am Not Waiting Anymore" Shone's Complex An abandoned baby, "Oscar," was found with a weak pulse and low oxygen saturation. He had evidence of prior heart surgeries. A cardiac cath confirmed a coarctation of the aorta , a parachute mitral valve , and a supravalvular mitral ring . This "trifecta" was diagnosed as Shone's Complex . His mitral valve then "blew," leading to flash pulmonary edema and V-fib, but he was stabilized with cardioversion. Byler's Disease and Innovative Biliary Diversion Jared Cole  had Byler's disease , a progressive liver condition. To avoid a transplant, he needed a biliary diversion. Dr. Karev proposed an innovative revision: using the appendix  instead of the intestine to create the stoma (cutaneous end-stoma), a simpler procedure with a faster recovery. Other Conditions Mentioned: Shone's Complex:  The rare combination of three specific congenital heart defects. Byler's Disease:  A progressive liver disease. Cutaneous end-stoma using the appendix:  Karev's innovative biliary diversion. Arthrogryposis:  A condition causing severe joint contractures and pain. Episode 16: "When It Hurts So Bad" Fetus in Fetu Greg , a patient with ten years of chronic pain, was diagnosed with fetus in fetu —he had absorbed his undeveloped twin in utero. The "massive" mass contained a leg, a spinal column, a lung, and a tooth, and derived its blood supply from the renal artery. He consented to its removal after Dr. Webber promised he could keep the "little twin" in a jar. Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Dr. Yang's clinical trial for HLHS  focused on creating a printable conduit  from a re-engineered portal vein. Sheryll Jeffries (17) , who was pregnant and had a failed conduit, was deemed too old for the pediatric trial criteria. Other Conditions Mentioned: Fetus in Fetu:  The rare condition of an absorbed twin. 3D-printed conduit:  The focus of the HLHS clinical trial. Transoral fundoplication:  A minimally invasive procedure for reflux. Episode 17: "I Wear the Face" Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Evelyn Hunt , Owen's mother, was admitted after a fall. Her report of dizziness before  the fall led to further investigation. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, and she was diagnosed with a Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) ; the earlier symptoms were a sentinel bleed . Her "lucky fall" got her to the hospital just in time for a successful repair. Chronic Liver Disease and Cholangitis Danny (17) , a patient with a history of biliary atresia  and chronic liver rejection, developed cholangitis . He insisted on a risky surgery to re-create his biliary tree. Dr. Grey attempted a hepatico-jejunostomy  and placed a shunt, but the anastomosis leaked, and he died from complications. Sinus Leeches Andrea  presented with a persistent headache and nosebleeds after a trip to China. Examination revealed the cause was not an infection, but a leech  living in her sinuses, which Dr. Hunt successfully extracted. Other Conditions Mentioned: Biliary Atresia:  Danny's underlying congenital condition. Cholangitis:  The acute infection of the bile duct. Hepatico-jejunostomy:  The high-risk procedure attempted on Danny. Sinus Leeches:  The parasitic "critter" found in Andrea's nose. Autism:  The focus of a neurosurgical research study on rats. Episode 18: "There's a Fine, Fine Line" Multiple Gunshot Wounds Leading to Traumatic Brain Death and Organ Donation Two police officers, Pete and Brett Gibson , were admitted with multiple GSWs. Pete Gibson  suffered a GSW to the trachea  and multiple GSWs to the chest and abdomen. He suffered a traumatic arrest, and after 14 minutes, he was declared brain dead . Brett Gibson  also had GSWs to the neck and abdomen. He suffered a large stroke  during surgery, which also resulted in brain death . Jared (15) , the suspect, was also admitted with GSWs and a completely avulsed liver , requiring an immediate transplant. Dr. Bailey convinced the officers' mother to make a directed donation  of Brett's liver to Jared. Other Conditions Mentioned: GSW to the trachea:  The specific injury requiring an emergency cricothyrotomy. Traumatic arrest:  Cardiac arrest caused directly by severe physical trauma. Avulsed liver:  The liver was torn away from its blood supply. Directed donation:  The organ donation from Brett to Jared. Episode 19: "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" Spondylolisthesis/Severe Spinal Misalignment Marissa McKay , a junior golfer, presented with severe lower back pain, dismissed as growing pains. X-rays revealed a severe spinal misalignment ( spondylolisthesis ). During surgery, a rod slipped, causing a complete loss of spinal cord function . Dr. Torres was called in for an emergency anterior stabilization, drilling through the sacrum to anchor L5 to S1. Her spine was realigned, but she would never play golf competitively again. Traumatic Penile Amputation Thomas Archibald , a chef, suffered a traumatic penile amputation  inflicted by his wife. Dr. Catherine Avery was called in to perform the microvascular reattachment, which included using a saphenous vein graft  to ensure profuse blood flow. The surgery was "impeccable," with a good prognosis for regaining function. Other Conditions Mentioned: Spondylolisthesis:  The severe "zigzag" misalignment of the spine. Phalloplasty:  The surgical reattachment of the penis. Saphenous vein graft:  Used to provide blood flow to the neophallus. Episode 20: "Trigger Happy" Gunshot Wound to the Abdomen leading to Spinal Cord Injury Brandon (8)  was admitted with a GSW to the abdomen  from an accidental shooting. The bullet had penetrated his spinal cord, shattering his L1 vertebra and leaving fragments in the spinal canal. During surgery to decompress the cord, he went into V-tach and V-fib, requiring defibrillation while his spine was exposed. Although he survived, it was determined to be very unlikely he would ever walk again. Hepatic Adenoma Sheila Davis  was scheduled for a laparoscopic resection of a 5-centimeter hepatic adenoma . The tumor was benign, but she had falsely told her online boyfriend it was malignant to elicit sympathy. Other Conditions Mentioned: Spinal Shock:  The initial presentation indicating spinal cord involvement. L1 Vertebra Shattered:  The specific spinal injury. Hepatic Adenoma:  A benign tumor of the liver. Episode 21: "You're Gonna Need Someone on Your Side" Recurrence of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Tommy , the premature infant, had a recurrence of his necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) . X-rays confirmed the suspicion. During surgery, it was determined that almost his entire bowel was necrotic and there was "nothing else to be done." The decision was eventually made to withdraw life support , and he passed away. Other Conditions Mentioned: Stomach Flu:  A character received IV fluids for this while studying for their boards. Suspected Intra-abdominal Hemorrhage:  Indicated by a rigid abdomen in a trauma victim. Vascular Graft Leak:  A post-op complication where a graft failed, causing internal bleeding. Episode 22: "Mama Tried" Uterine Perforation and Amniotic Fluid Leak The main medical crisis involved Jenny , a patient 24 weeks pregnant, who was admitted after falling on dishes. An ultrasound revealed free fluid in her abdomen, which was confirmed to be amniotic fluid. The diagnosis was a perforated uterus . Given the baby's 24-week gestation, the perforation made the pregnancy non-viable. Initially, an OB on call attempted an experimental repair using a plasma patch  to seal the leak. However, the patient continued to leak, and the fetal heart rate showed decreased variability, prompting the decision for an immediate C-section. Dr. Arizona Robbins intervened, stopping the delivery due to the baby's low odds of survival (compromised lungs and brain bleed risk). Dr. Robbins performed an emergency amnioinfusion , refilling the depleted uterus with Lactated Ringer's  solution to "put that baby back in." This gave the baby more time to gestate, as every additional week improved its chances of survival. Other Conditions Mentioned: Fetal Complications Associated with Extreme Prematurity:  The fetus faced risks of compromised lungs and a high risk of brain bleeds if delivered at 24 weeks. Possible Meningitis:  A suspected diagnosis for a patient who had passed out, prompting a stat CT scan. Episode 23: "At Last" Deep Brain Abscess Complicated by Ventricular Rupture Kyle , who previously had an infected device removed from his brain, remained septic. A CT scan revealed a deep brain abscess  in the periventricular area. During a high-risk (85% mortality) drainage procedure, the abscess ruptured into his ventricles . Despite irrigation, the patient deteriorated, herniated, and died from a brain infarction . Rapidly Spreading Necrotizing Fasciitis Rhys  presented with a peritonsillar abscess  after a strep throat infection. Imaging showed air pockets, and a CT confirmed a rapid progression to Necrotizing Fasciitis (Nec Fasc) , which was spreading down his chest wall. He required immediate, extensive surgical debridement of the infected tissue from his pleural space and chest wall. Other Conditions Mentioned: Strep Throat:  The initial infection for Rhys. Peritonsillar Abscess:  The complication that led to the Nec Fasc. Brain Infarction from Herniation:  The cause of death for Kyle. Episode 24: "Family Affair" Footling Breech with Umbilical Cord Prolapse Dr. April Kepner  went into labor at a wedding. Dr. Ben Warren performed a pelvic exam and discovered a footling breech  presentation and a prolapsed umbilical cord . With the baby's blood supply cut off and no time for an ambulance, Dr. Warren was forced to perform an emergency C-section  in the house, using only a scalpel and ice for pain, successfully saving both mother and baby. Dementia An elderly patient, Louise , stabbed an intruder who turned out to be her son, Donnie . The underlying condition was dementia ; she did not recognize him and was confused about her surroundings. Other Conditions Mentioned: Footling Breech:  The fetal presentation where the feet emerge first. Prolapsed Umbilical Cord:  An obstetric emergency where the cord descends before the baby, cutting off blood supply. Emergency C-Section:  The procedure performed by Ben in a non-sterile environment. 🔖 Key Takeaways A Main Character's Trauma:  The season's most harrowing medical event was Meredith Grey's  own, who suffered a violent patient assault  leading to multiple fractures, a dislocated jaw, a pneumothorax, and temporary deafness, forcing her colleagues to treat one of their own in a critical state. Groundbreaking Orthopedic Innovation:  Dr. Callie Torres pushed the limits of orthopedic surgery with a plan to treat a recurrent chondrosarcoma  by implanting a 3D-printed, custom-built sternum and rib cage , a procedure designed to give a teenage patient a chance at a normal life. The "Impossible" Neurosurgical Save:  Dr. Amelia Shepherd faced one of her greatest challenges with a patient suffering from spinal epilepsy  secondary to a brachial plexus avulsion, ultimately using a radiofrequency probe  to burn the nerve endings in the spine and stop the debilitating pain. Complex Fetal Medicine:  The fetal surgery department tackled high-risk cases, including the delicate, staged repair of esophageal atresia  in a neonate and the devastating diagnosis of a fatal Type II congenital disorder  (Osteogenesis Imperfecta) for April and Jackson's baby. Diagnostic Triumphs:  The season featured several brilliant diagnostic "saves." Dr. Pierce identified a RAF1 genetic mutation  as the cause of a 22-year-old's cardiomyopathy, a discovery that also solved the McNeil family case from Season 10. In another, Dr. Grey used a Foley catheter balloon  as a life-saving tamponade for a ruptured pediatric abdominal mass.

Biopharma company Moderna is strategically ramping up its mRNA Cancer Treatment oncology pipeline, a move that executives suggest "makes sense" given the current skeptical political climate surrounding infectious disease vaccines in the U.S.. Simultaneously, preliminary research indicates that the existing mRNA COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna may offer an unexpected benefit by helping some cancer patients fight tumors. Moderna’s head of development, therapeutics, and oncology, Kyle Holen, M.D., affirmed at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress that while political resistance to infectious disease vaccines is uncertain, Moderna was founded partly as an oncology company. Holen noted that the company has many new oncology programs and fewer new infectious disease programs, with most upcoming investigational new drug applications focusing on cancer. This shift addresses the "huge unmet need in cancer," providing targets across lung cancer, prostate cancer, multiple myeloma, and melanoma. At ESMO, Moderna presented Phase 1/2 data for mRNA-4359 , a cancer drug encoding PD-L1 and IDO antigens. When administered intramuscularly every three weeks for up to nine doses in combination with Merck & Co.’s Keytruda, the therapy demonstrated an objective response rate of 24% among 29 evaluable melanoma patients. Based on these "really compelling data," Moderna plans to expand mRNA-4359 development into lung cancer. Holen explained that mRNA-4359 utilizes a unique mechanism that suppresses regulatory T cells and acts as a flag for T-cells to find and attack cancer cells directly. Furthermore, Moderna is advancing its personalized cancer vaccine, intismeran autogene (mRNA-4157), partnered with Merck, into a Phase 3 trial for metastatic melanoma, having gained confidence from the efficacy shown by '4359 in metastatic disease. In a separate development highlighting the broad potential of the mRNA platform, preliminary research suggests that the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 shots may boost the immune systems of certain cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy. The study focused on people with advanced lung or skin cancer receiving checkpoint inhibitor drugs. Researchers found that patients who received a Pfizer or Moderna mRNA vaccine within 100 days of starting treatment lived substantially longer. For example, vaccinated lung cancer patients were nearly twice as likely to be alive three years after beginning cancer treatment compared to unvaccinated patients. The mRNA molecule, which contains genetic instructions for making proteins, appears to act as a "siren to activate immune cells throughout the body," sensitizing immune-resistant tumors to the cutting-edge treatment. Notably, non-mRNA vaccines like flu shots did not yield this beneficial effect. The results are so promising that researchers from MD Anderson Cancer Center and the University of Florida are planning a more rigorous study to see if these off-the-shelf mRNA coronavirus vaccines should be formally paired with checkpoint inhibitors. This comes despite the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently ending funding for certain mRNA vaccine work due to skepticism. 🔖 Sources ESMO: Moderna's oncology efforts 'make sense' while government skeptical of vaccines COVID-19 vaccines may help some cancer patients fight tumors