Pro-PA Podcast

In this episode, Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, provides a high-yield overview of contraceptive methods —from barrier methods and hormonal options to long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) and permanent sterilization. We cover key pros and cons, contraindications, and how to tailor choices based on patient needs and comorbidities. Great prep for exams and patient counseling alike! #Contraception...

In this episode, Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, breaks down cervical dysplasia , a precancerous condition detected through routine Pap smears and often associated with persistent HPV infection. We’ll review screening guidelines, classification systems (including LSIL and HSIL), and next steps in management—from watchful waiting to colposcopy. Perfect for PA students preparing for clinical rotations o...

In this episode, Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, dives into cervicitis , an inflammation of the cervix that can be caused by infectious and non-infectious etiologies. Learn how to recognize the hallmark signs, identify common pathogens like Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae , and determine appropriate diagnostic testing and treatment. A must-know topic for anyone in women’s health! #Cerv...

In this quick and high-yield episode, we tackle mastitis , a common inflammatory breast condition often seen in lactating individuals. Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, breaks down how to differentiate between infectious and non-infectious mastitis, discusses common pathogens, and provides an overview of treatment, including when antibiotics are warranted. Tune in for the essentials on recognizing compl...

Although typically affecting males, gynecomastia is included under breast disorders in the PANCE blueprint and deserves a quick but important review. In this episode, Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, explains the physiologic, pharmacologic, and pathologic causes of male breast enlargement and how to distinguish true glandular proliferation from pseudogynecomastia. A great refresher for both primary car...

In this episode, Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, brings her decades of clinical experience to the topic of galactorrhea , the inappropriate or spontaneous flow of breast milk. We’ll explore the differential diagnosis—from prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas to medication side effects—and discuss the appropriate workup and referral considerations. Tune in for high-yield insights into this often misu...

In this episode, guest host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, unpacks the essentials of fibrocystic breast changes —a common benign breast condition characterized by cyclic pain, tenderness, and nodularity. Learn how to recognize classic clinical features, evaluate with imaging, and provide reassurance while ruling out red flags. This is must-know material for outpatient care and exams alike. #WomensHea...

In this episode, guest host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, walks you through the key clinical pearls of fibroadenoma , the most common benign breast tumor in young women. Learn how to distinguish it from other breast masses through clinical presentation, imaging findings, and when to consider biopsy or reassurance. Whether you’re reviewing for boards or prepping for clinic, this episode breaks it dow...

In this debut episode of the WOMENSHEALTH101 series, guest host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C —a seasoned PA with over 30 years of experience in women’s health—dives into breast abscesses , an often painful but treatable complication of mastitis. We’ll cover the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and management pearls, including when to escalate care. This is high-yield, pra...

Time to test your hematology mastery! In this final episode of the HEME101 series, we hit you with 15 rapid-fire, PANCE-style multiple choice questions covering everything from anemia subtypes to hematologic malignancies. Perfect for a final review or group study session, this is your chance to check your recall, reinforce key concepts, and boost your test confidence—Pro-PA style. #FlashPANCE #Hem...

Get ready for rapid-fire recall! This episode reviews the high-yield buzzwords and phrases from the entire HEME101 series to help solidify key concepts for the PANCE and beyond. From Heinz bodies to Reed-Sternberg cells , we’ll reinforce the classic associations and hallmark findings that help lock in your hematology knowledge. A perfect episode to play during your commute or as a quick pre-exam r...

In this episode, we cover Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) —a group of clonal bone marrow disorders characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis and cytopenias. Learn the classic clinical features, risk of transformation to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) , and hallmark findings like dysplastic cells . We'll also walk through diagnostic strategies and management pearls essential for the PANCE and cl...

In this episode, we explore Multiple Myeloma , a malignant plasma cell disorder known for its CRAB criteria — hyperCalcemia, Renal failure, Anemia, and Bone lesions . We'll discuss the classic presentation of back pain, lytic bone lesions, and recurrent infections, as well as hallmark findings like M protein spike , Bence Jones proteins , and Rouleaux formation on blood smear. Tune in to maste...

In this high-yield episode, we cover Burkitt Lymphoma , one of the fastest-growing human tumors, often associated with EBV and characterized by its iconic “starry sky” appearance on histology. You'll learn to distinguish between the endemic, sporadic, and immunodeficiency-associated subtypes, recognize key clinical presentations (like jaw or abdominal masses), and master board-relevant facts f...

This episode takes a focused look at Hodgkin Lymphoma , a distinct B-cell malignancy known for its classic Reed-Sternberg cells and predictable pattern of spread. We'll review the hallmark B symptoms , staging systems, and how this condition stands apart from Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Plus, we’ll discuss common presentations in young adults and key treatment pearls to help solidify this high-yield...

In this episode, we unpack Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) —a diverse group of lymphoid malignancies that vary in presentation, progression, and prognosis. We'll break down the most common subtypes, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma, and highlight key differences from Hodgkin Lymphoma. Expect coverage of risk factors (like immunosuppression and viral associations), cli...

In this episode, we explore Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) —a myeloproliferative disorder defined by the Philadelphia chromosome and BCR-ABL fusion gene . Learn how this disease progresses through chronic, accelerated, and blast phases, and how to recognize key signs like marked leukocytosis and splenomegaly. We’ll also review first-line treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as imatinib a...

In this high-yield episode, we dive into Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) —a rapidly progressive hematologic malignancy seen most often in older adults. We cover hallmark features such as pancytopenia, fatigue, bleeding, and infection, and highlight the classic finding of Auer rods on peripheral smear. You’ll also learn the importance of blasts >20% in the bone marrow and the basics of AML subtypes...

In this episode, we explore the basics of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) —the most common leukemia in adults. We’ll cover typical clinical findings like lymphadenopathy and recurrent infections, the importance of smudge cells on peripheral smear, and diagnostic tools like flow cytometry. Plus, we’ll review Rai staging and treatment considerations based on disease progression and patient sympto...

In this episode, we break down the essentials of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) —the most common childhood cancer. Learn the hallmark clinical features (like bone pain and CNS involvement), diagnostic workup including peripheral smear and bone marrow biopsy, and the high-yield cytogenetic findings (like t(12;21) and Philadelphia chromosome). We also touch on prognosis, treatment phases, and co...

In this episode, we walk through the most important Transfusion Reactions you need to know for clinical practice and the PANCE. From acute hemolytic reactions to febrile non-hemolytic , allergic , and TRALI (transfusion-related acute lung injury), we highlight key signs, timing, causes, and treatments. Learn how to quickly recognize and manage each type—and what labs and protocols to follow when t...

This episode covers Beta Thalassemia , a genetic disorder resulting from mutations in the beta-globin gene, leading to reduced or absent beta-chain production. We break down the differences between Beta Thalassemia Minor and Beta Thalassemia Major (Cooley anemia) —including clinical presentations, target cells on smear, iron overload risk, and electrophoresis findings. A high-yield discussion to h...

In this episode, we explore Alpha Thalassemia , a genetic disorder caused by deletions of alpha-globin genes that affects hemoglobin synthesis. We review the four clinical forms—silent carrier, trait, Hemoglobin H disease, and hydrops fetalis—with emphasis on their pathophysiology, lab findings (like normal iron with microcytic anemia), and electrophoresis results. Learn how to differentiate alpha...

This episode takes a closer look at Sickle Cell Disease , a genetic hemoglobinopathy caused by a mutation in the beta-globin gene. We break down the pathophysiology of sickling, the triggers of vaso-occlusive crises, and the wide range of clinical complications—including acute chest syndrome, stroke, priapism, and functional asplenia. You'll also learn high-yield details on diagnosis, preventi...

In this episode, we explore Hemochromatosis , a disorder of iron overload caused by increased intestinal absorption. Learn how this condition can lead to iron deposition in organs such as the liver, pancreas, heart, and joints—resulting in cirrhosis, diabetes, cardiomyopathy, and arthritis. We cover key genetic causes (like HFE mutations), clinical manifestations, diagnostic testing (transferrin s...