Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/531147
Turner syndrome, family histor y of osteoporosis, etc. are at increased risk for low bone density and osteoporosis," Dr. Kambalapalli explains. "If a child is having recurrent fractures without significant trauma, it could be related to low bone density. That should alert a physician that further investigation is needed." As part of Akron Children's bone health committee, Dr. Kambalapalli is helping to develop guidelines for ordering DXA scans in the pediatric population to increase awareness among pediatricians about these high-risk patients. Turner Syndrome Center Turner syndrome is Dr. Fenton's pas- sion, so much so that she founded and now co-directs the Akron Children's Turner Syndrome Center. "We provide the only place in north- east Ohio for girls and young women [up to age 35] to obtain comprehensive care for Turner's," Dr. Fenton says. Turner syndrome is a chromosomal condition that affects one in 2,500 girls. The diagnosis is made based on the presence of specific physical features, especially short stature. Girls with the disorder can be born a normal size but may start to slip down the growth charts as they reach preschool age and beyond. Other physical symptoms, including puffy hands and feet, a webbed neck, or certain congenital heart defects, may be present. Puberty may also be delayed, and fertility issues may ensue. With early detection, most symptoms are well managed, so patients can expect to lead typical lives. In addition to endocrinologists, the Turner Syndrome Center's staff includes audiologists, cardiologists, gastroen- terologists, geneticists, nephrologists, neurologists, ophthalmologists, dieti- tians and social workers. The Center sponsors a free conference ever y 18 months for patients and their families to provide information on current health- care issues and offers the opportunity to share experiences. Dr. Fenton is a member of the Turner Syndrome Research Network, which was Dr. Kambalapalli is part of Akron Children's bone health committee, which is developing guidelines for ordering DXA scans in the pediatric population. The goal is to increase awareness among pediatricians about high-risk patients. founded in 2014. The goal is to develop a unified plan nationwide to advance clinical care and research related to this disorder. "We are committed to family-centered care, and our division does so much to help kids with endocrine condi- tions," Dr. Fenton says, highlighting another very popular example — Akron Children's Diabetes Camp. "This is the seventh summer for our camp, which is held at Camp Y-Noah for our patients with diabetes age 8–15. Some of our past participants are now in col- lege and have returned as counselors. It's so rewarding to see the positive impact the camp has had on their lives and their willingness to give back to younger kids." For more information about all of the of fer ings at Akron Children's Center f or D iab ete s & En do c r inolo g y v i s it w w w.akronchildre n s.or g. To ref e r a patient, call 330-543-3276. ■ PHOTO © JOE SMITHBERGER, SMITHBERGER PHOTOGRAPHY, NORTH CANTON, OHIO 2 0 1 5 J U LY/AU G U S T ■ M D N E W S . CO M ■ MD NEWS Cleveland/Akron/Canton | 1 7