Pro-PA Podcast

In this episode, Dr. G reviews Oligodendroglioma , a rare but classic primary brain tumor typically seen in adults, often presenting with seizures and a slow-growing frontal lobe mass. Learn about its hallmark “fried egg” appearance on histology, the importance of 1p/19q co-deletion for prognosis, and how it differs from other gliomas. Whether you're prepping for PANCE or sharpening your neuro...

In this episode, Dr. G breaks down Vestibular Schwannoma , also known as Acoustic Neuroma —a benign tumor of the vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) that commonly presents with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and imbalance. We’ll cover the hallmark findings on MRI, the connection with NF2 in bilateral cases, and when observation vs. surgery vs. radiation is appropriate. Don’t miss t...

In this episode, Dr. G reviews Meningioma , the most common benign intracranial tumor. These slow-growing tumors often arise from the dura mater and may be discovered incidentally or present with headaches, seizures, or focal neurological deficits depending on their location. We’ll discuss classic imaging findings like the “dural tail sign,” the role of surgical resection, and why most cases have...

In this episode, Dr. G dives into Craniopharyngioma , a benign but locally aggressive brain tumor that most commonly affects children and young adults. Learn how its classic presentation—growth delays, visual changes, and signs of increased intracranial pressure—can help you spot it early. We’ll also talk through its origin from Rathke’s pouch, common findings on imaging, and the surgical and horm...

In this high-stakes episode of the Pro-PA Podcast, Dr. G unpacks Status Epilepticus , a true neurologic emergency. We’ll define the condition, discuss the timeline that matters most (hint: it’s 5 minutes!), and walk through first-line and second-line treatments, including benzodiazepines and antiepileptics. Tune in for clinical pearls, PANCE pointers, and tips to keep your cool when seconds count....

In this episode of the Pro-PA Podcast, Dr. G breaks down Febrile Seizures , the most common convulsive disorder in children under five. We’ll cover simple vs. complex febrile seizures, red flag features that should raise concern, and how to counsel anxious parents when a child has their first episode. Learn when to reassure, when to refer, and what really matters on exam day and in real life. #Feb...

In this NEURO101 installment, Dr. G explores Acute Symptomatic Seizures , which are triggered by identifiable causes such as stroke, metabolic imbalances, traumatic brain injury, or infection. These seizures are not considered epilepsy but require careful evaluation of the underlying cause to guide management and prevent recurrence. Tune in to distinguish these from other seizure types and sharpen...

In this NEURO101 episode, Dr. G breaks down Epileptic Syndromes , focusing on high-yield examples like Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME) and Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS). These syndromes go beyond isolated seizure types, often involving specific age-related onset patterns, EEG findings, and treatment implications. Tune in for a clinical overview that helps differentiate these complex conditions a...

In this NEURO101 episode, Dr. G dives into Generalized Seizures (Tonic-clonic, Absence, Myoclonic, Atonic) —a critical topic for anyone studying neurology or prepping for the PANCE/PANRE. Learn to differentiate the various seizure types that involve both hemispheres of the brain from the onset, including the classic convulsions of tonic-clonic seizures, the blank stares of absence seizures, the su...

In this NEURO101 episode, Dr. G breaks down Focal Seizures (± Impaired Awareness) —those that begin in one hemisphere of the brain and may or may not affect awareness. You'll learn how to distinguish between seizures with retained awareness (previously called simple partial seizures) and those with impaired awareness (formerly complex partial seizures). We also explore key clinical presentatio...

Welcome to our 200th episode! Dr. G reflects on her journey through the Doctorate of Medical Science (DMSc) program at the University of Pittsburgh and discusses what it means to earn a doctoral degree as a Physician Associate. In this special episode, we explore: ✅ Why Dr. G chose the Pitt DMSc: affordable, flexible, 1-year format 🔗 https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/academics/pas/dmsc/ ✅ Her collabora...

In this episode, Dr. G highlights how Vitamin B12 Deficiency affects the nervous system—causing subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord , peripheral neuropathy, and even cognitive changes. Learn how to identify this reversible but potentially devastating condition early, distinguish it from other neurologic disorders, and recognize classic signs like paresthesias, ataxia, and a positive...

In this Clinical Medicine Brief, Dr. G breaks down Spinal Accessory Nerve Injury —a surprisingly vulnerable cranial nerve injury that can lead to shoulder droop, trapezius weakness, and difficulty elevating the arm . Learn how this motor-only cranial nerve (CN XI) gets injured during procedures like lymph node biopsies or neck dissections , how to test it at the bedside, and why early recognition...

In this Clinical Medicine Brief, Dr. G explores Critical Illness Polyneuropathy (CIP) —a frequently overlooked yet significant cause of ICU-acquired weakness . We’ll cover the pathophysiology behind this diffuse axonal neuropathy, often seen in patients with sepsis, multiorgan failure, or prolonged mechanical ventilation . Learn how to distinguish CIP from myopathy, the red flags to recognize earl...

In this Clinical Medicine Brief, Dr. G breaks down Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy —the most common complication of long-standing diabetes. Understand how chronic hyperglycemia leads to nerve ischemia and damage, particularly affecting the distal symmetric sensory nerves . We’ll review clinical presentations like stocking-glove distribution , loss of vibration/proprioception, and pain or paresthesi...

In this Clinical Medicine Brief, Dr. G explores Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) —a chronic pain condition that goes beyond the boundaries of typical injury. Learn the difference between Type I (no confirmed nerve injury) and Type II (with confirmed nerve injury) , as well as hallmark features like allodynia , temperature or color changes , and swelling . We cover diagnostic criteria, imaging...

In this episode of NEURO101, Dr. G covers Carpal Tunnel Syndrome , the most common entrapment neuropathy affecting the median nerve at the wrist. Learn the hallmark signs like thenar atrophy , paresthesias in the first three fingers , and nighttime symptoms , along with provocative tests like Phalen’s and Tinel’s . We’ll also break down treatment—from wrist splinting to steroid injections and surg...

In this episode of NEURO101, Dr. G unpacks Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) —an acute, immune-mediated polyneuropathy classically presenting with ascending symmetric weakness , areflexia , and possible autonomic instability . We’ll break down post-infectious triggers (like Campylobacter jejuni ), CSF findings of albuminocytologic dissociation , and key management strategies including IVIG and plasmap...

In this episode, Dr. G dives into Myasthenia Gravis (MG) —an autoimmune neuromuscular junction disorder characterized by fatigable muscle weakness , ptosis , and diplopia . Learn how antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (or less commonly MuSK) disrupt normal transmission, and understand the role of the edrophonium (Tensilon) test , ice pack test , and EMG in diagnosis. Treatment pearls in...

In this episode, Dr. G explores Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) —a relentlessly progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting both upper and lower motor neurons . Discover hallmark signs like fasciculations, spasticity, hyperreflexia, dysarthria , and progressive muscle weakness , while learning the difference between ALS and mimics like MS or cervical myelopathy. We'll also highlight th...

In this high-yield NEURO101 episode, Dr. G dives into Multiple Sclerosis (MS) —a chronic autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Learn how MS presents with optic neuritis, internuclear ophthalmoplegia, sensory disturbances , and more. We’ll cover diagnostic essentials like MRI with Dawson’s fingers and oligoclonal bands in CSF, plus treatment options for acute flares and di...

In this NEURO101 episode, Dr. G breaks down Cerebral Palsy (CP) —a non-progressive motor disorder stemming from a disturbance in the developing brain, most often due to prenatal or perinatal insults. We’ll cover the different subtypes (spastic, dyskinetic, ataxic), key features like hypertonia, delayed milestones, and abnormal reflexes , and how diagnosis and management unfold from infancy through...

In this episode of NEURO101, Dr. G dives into Lateral Medullary Syndrome (a.k.a. Wallenberg Syndrome) —a classic brainstem stroke caused by occlusion of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) or vertebral artery. Learn how to recognize this unique constellation of symptoms , including vertigo, nystagmus, ipsilateral facial sensory loss, contralateral body pain/temp loss, hoarseness, dysph...

In this episode of NEURO101, Dr. G breaks down the classic presentation of a Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) —sudden onset of the "worst headache of life." We cover the most common cause (ruptured berry aneurysm), key risk factors (smoking, hypertension, polycystic kidney disease) , and the step-by-step approach to diagnosis with CT head, lumbar puncture , and CTA/MRA . Management pearls i...

In this high-yield NEURO101 episode, Dr. G covers Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH) —a life-threatening condition caused by bleeding directly into the brain parenchyma. We review the most common cause (hypertension) , typical locations (e.g., basal ganglia, thalamus, cerebellum), clinical presentation, and how to distinguish it from ischemic stroke. Learn the essentials of CT imaging , blood pressure...