Research Rounds 1

ePoster Research Rounds (CME): 6-minute ePoster presentations within a 60-minute time block

ePoster 1: Gemella morbillorum Infection in a Male Patient with Breast Cancer
Gemella morbillorum is a rare cause of soft tissue infection. In this case, a 52 year old male with a past medical history of breast cancer presented with a right chest wall infection post radiation therapy to the region. The wound culture demonstrated infection with Pseudomonas, Enterococcus and Gemella and the patient was started on empiric antibiotics. The patient ultimately needed a wound washout, followed by a latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction by plastic surgery.
Presenter: Anna R. Mutschler, BS, PA-S2 – PA Student, Quinnipiac University

Additional Authors:
Joshua Freund – PA-C, DMSc, Quinnipiac University

ePoster 2: Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Associated Triple ‘M’ Overlap Syndrome: A Case Study
This is a case study that highlights the rapid progression of Triple "M" Overlap Syndrome (TMOS) in a 75-year-old male with metastatic melanoma following immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. It exemplifies the importance of early recognition and multidisciplinary management of immune-related adverse events to improve patient outcomes.
Presenter: Sofia A. Soto Chavez, PA-C – Physician Assistant, Moffitt Cancer Center
Hardik Thakkar, MSPAS PA-C – APP Supervisor, APP Fellowship Coordinator at Moffitt Cancer Center, Moffitt Cancer Center

Additional Authors:
Samuel Jalali, Doctor of Medicine – Attending Physician, Moffitt Cancer Center
Neha Verma – Medical Director, Department of Internal and Hospital Medicine, Moffitt Cancer Center

ePoster 3: Improving Head and Neck Cancer Outcomes Through PA Led Initiatives
This presentation explores PA-led initiatives addressing multidisciplinary needs in head and neck cancer care at a safety-net institution. Using a quality improvement approach and patient journey mapping, they utilized strategies to optimize pre-anesthesia evaluations, referrals, coordination with oral and maxillofacial surgery for dental extractions prior to start of radiation therapy, and timely treatment, while enhancing equity and care delivery for vulnerable populations.
Presenter: Joshua Hockaday, PA-C – Physician Assistant, John Peter Smith Hospital

Additional Authors:
Ashley Hall, PA-C – Physician Assistant, John Peter Smith Hospital/ Acclaim
Anna Zurek – Non-Categorical Oral Surgery Intern, John Peter Smith Hospital
Antranig Mesrobian – Non-categorical Oral Surgery Intern, John Peter Smith Hospital
Cortney Moore – Registered Dental Assistant Residency Coordinator, John Peter Smith Hospital
Caitlyn McGue – Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Maxillofacial Oncology and Reconstructive Surgery Fellow, John Peter Smith Hospital
David Schwitzer – Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Maxillofacial Oncology and Reconstructive Surgery Fellow, John Peter Smith Hospital

eposter 4: Insurance Coverage and Viral Suppression in HIV Patients
This study evaluates the impact of Ryan White funding (RWF) on achieving viral suppression (VS) among HIV patients at a federally funded clinic in Utah. Results showed no significant difference in VS timelines between RWF and non-RWF patients, though RWF patients required more interpreter services. Despite barriers, 85% of patients achieved VS, with 72% meeting the goal within 120 days. Findings highlight the importance of funding programs like RWF in providing equitable and effective HIV care.
Presenter: Jennifer M. Coombs, Dr – Professsor, University of Utah Physician Assistant Program

Additional Authors:
Leigh Elrod, DPAS, MPAS – Associate Professor, University of Utah Physician Assistant Program
Shahpar Najmabadi – Assistant Professor, University of Utah
Christine Tang, MPAS, PA-C – Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of Utah Physician Assistant Program
Tina Xu, PA-S – PA-S, University of Utah Physician Assistant Program
Evelyn On Kei Tsui, RD, CSO, CNSC – PA-S, University of Utah Physician Assistant Program
Jessica M. Do – PA-S, University of Utah Physician Assistant Program
Odyssey M. Contreras – PA-S, University of Utah Physician Assistant Program

ePoster 5: The Neurological Toll of Starvation: Wernicke’s Encephalopathy in Anorexia
Wernicke’s encephalopathy is an acute neuropsychiatric syndrome caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. The condition is often underdiagnosed, as its hallmark triad of symptoms—ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and confusion. This variability in clinical presentation makes early recognition and prompt treatment essential to prevent progression to irreversible neurological damage or even death.
Presenter: Kristina Petrucci, PA – Pediatric Hosptial Medicine Physician Assistant, Hasbro Children's / Brown University Health

Additional Authors:
Hadley Tate, PA – Pediatric Hosptial Medicine Physician Assistant, Hasbro Children's / Brown University Health