Measles, which until recently had been a rare disease in the United States, is re-emerging in our communities due to a combination of increased global mobility and decreased vaccinations across the country. As providers, we need to reacquaint ourselves with this disease so that we may diagnose it as well as educate our patients on how to prevent it. With public resistance to vaccinations on the rise, it is also important to be prepared to answer questions about the measles vaccine, its efficacy, and its side effects. By being educated ourselves, we will be able to educate our communities and help keep illnesses like measles at bay. [Pediatr Ann. 2018;47(9):e340-e344.].

Puberty is an important process that providers of health care to children and adolescents should be comfortable discussing. The normal process of puberty is complex and involves many different hormonal pathways. A clear understanding of these pathways will help providers counsel patients on what to expect as they anticipate and progress through puberty as well as be alerted when puberty is not progressing normally. Both early and late puberty can have physical and psychological implications for the pediatric population. Being familiar with the common causes and initial testing of abnormal puberty will allow the primary care provider to monitor appropriately and initiate further investigation if warranted. This article reviews both the typical pubertal pathway as well as delayed and premature puberty and their common causes. [ Pediatr Ann . 2019;48(4):e141–e145.]

Anemia is a pervasive problem in pediatrics and evaluating for it is considered part of standard care for all pediatric patients. If left untreated, it can cause significant problems for children and many of the detriments can be long lasting. Although iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of pediatric anemia, it is important to keep the broad differential in mind for those in whom the history suggests an alternate diagnosis or who do not respond to standard treatment with iron supplementation. This article gives a basic overview of anemia in children with a focus on iron deficiency. [Pediatr Ann. 2018;47(2):e42-e47.].

Adolescent substance use is an ever-changing topic that can be difficult to stay on top of its many components. Recent data show encouraging declines in the use of some substances such as cigarettes, alcohol, and opioids, although they are still prevalent in the adolescent population. Newer issues such as vaping and the legalization of marijuana bring up new challenges in discussing substance use with young patients. Perceptions of risk and evolving campaigns aimed at young people make these two topics particularly important to address with adolescents. This article reviews the statistics regarding the most commonly used substances in the United States, and some important ways that we can reach out to the adolescent population that is so vulnerable to the harms of substance use. [ Pediatr Ann . 2019;48(11):e418–e422.]

Dental health in early childhood is a predictor for oral health as we age, and oral health is an important factor affecting overall health. For this reason, providing good guidance and early intervention is imperative to help set our patients up for success. To do this, providers must be familiar with dental anatomy and development, as well as recommendations for caries prevention, pacifier use, juice consumption, fluoride, and the establishment of a dental home. Aside from general oral health care, providers must also be able to provide guidance regarding dental trauma prevention and management. As health care providers are often the first point of contact after injury, they must be able to provide acute care and appropriate referral as necessary. [ Pediatr Ann. 2019;48(1):e3–e8.]