CSACI Podcast  –  The Allergist

When it comes to nasal polyps, the landscape is shifting fast. On this episode of The Allergist, we are joined by otolaryngologist Dr. Yvonne Chan to talk about how biologics, surgery, and multidisciplinary care are working together to reshape care for this stubborn condition. From recognizing key symptoms to navigating the latest therapeutic options, Dr. Chan shares practical insights to help physicians better support patients with nasal polyps. (April 29, 2025)

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What makes a great medical educator—and how do you actually become one? Dr. Lori Connors, an allergist, seasoned teacher, and newly appointed Associate Dean of Continuing Professional Development and Medical Education at Dalhousie University, joins us this episode to explore the journey to becoming a great medical educator, how competency by design is reshaping training, and how to support the next generation of learners.    (April 15, 2025)

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Is your schedule running you—or are you running your schedule? In this episode of The Allergist, we are joined by pediatric allergist and clinical immunologist  Dr. Scott Cameron to talk about the chaos of clinical practice and how to take back control. With tips that go far beyond time management, Dr. Cameron shares practical strategies for streamlining clinic operations, handling unpredictable days, and investing in smarter workflows—without burning out. (April 1, 2025)

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Immune dysregulation isn’t just about infections—autoimmunity, inflammation, and even malignancy can be clues that something deeper is at play. With over 500 known inborn errors of immunity, allergists are increasingly on the front lines of identifying these conditions. But when should we suspect immune dysregulation, and what does cutting-edge treatment look like today? Dr. Luis Murguía-Favela, pediatric immunologist and founding chair of the Clinical Immunology Network for Canada, joins us to break down the growing world of immune dysregulation and how allergists can spot it. (March 18, 2025)

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Penicillin allergy is one of the most commonly reported drug allergies—but here’s the twist: most people who carry this label aren’t actually allergic. So how did we get here, and what can be done to fix it? To explore this issue, we sit down with Dr. Kimberly Blumenthal, an allergist, immunologist, and clinical researcher internationally recognized for her work on penicillin allergy and the real-world impact of unnecessary labels on patient care. (March 4, 2025)

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Thresholds already shape food allergy care—so why not use them more effectively? Dr. Douglas Mack joins us on this episode of The Allergist to discuss what they are, how real-world factors shift them, and how allergists can use them to counsel patients more precisely. (February 18, 2025)

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Is omalizumab set to change the food allergy landscape? And how should clinicians use it in practice? In this episode of The Allergist, we sit down with Dr. Brian Vickery, professor of pediatrics and chief of the Division of Allergy and Immunology at Emory University, to break down what allergists need to know about this new FDA-approved biologic for food allergies. (February 4, 2025)

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Can asthma remission become a reality? Dr. William Anderson, medical director of the Allergy and Immunology section and the Asthma Biologics Program at Children’s Hospital Colorado, joins us in this episode of The Allergist to explore what remission means, how biologics are shaping care, and what the future holds. (January 21, 2025)

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Could sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) be the peanut allergy solution allergists have been waiting for? In this episode, we welcome Dr. Edwin Kim, Division Chief of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology at the University of North Carolina, to dive into the science, practicality, and potential of SLIT. With a reputation for safety and ease of use, SLIT is gaining traction—but as Dr. Kim emphasizes, the evidence for other foods like milk, egg, and tree nuts remains extremely limited. (January 7, 2025)

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In The Allergist’s top episode of 2024, we are joined by Prof. Jonathan Hourihane for an insightful discussion that promises to reshape your understanding of food allergy management, emphasizing early intervention and patient empowerment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in allergy care, offering essential insights that could transform your clinical approach.  (December 24, 2024)

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When it comes to managing anaphylaxis, epinephrine is the gold standard. But even with its life-saving potential, misconceptions abound, and newer delivery methods like nasal and sublingual formulations are raising questions for allergists and patients alike. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Paul Turner, pediatric allergist, clinical immunologist, and global expert on anaphylaxis, to explore the science, controversies, and clinical realities surrounding epinephrine use. (December 10, 2024)

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Every week, we’re ingesting the equivalent of a credit card’s worth of plastic —through food, water, and even the air we breathe. In this episode of The Allergist, we speak with Dr. Magdalena Zemelka-Wiecek, associate professor of clinical immunology at Wroclaw Medical University, about the pervasive presence of plastics in our environment and their potential role in influencing human health. (November 26, 2024)

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For many, pets are like family, which makes pet allergies a particularly sensitive issue. On this episode of The Allergist, we invite Dr. Shahzad Mustafa, Chief of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology at Rochester Regional Health, to explore practical, evidence-based approaches for managing pet allergies in patients who can’t imagine life without Fido or Fluffy. (November 12, 2024)

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We team up with Dr. Timothy Olynych, a clinical immunologist and allergist and PhD in mast cells, to unravel the mystery of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). This elusive condition requires some serious detective work, with clues scattered across a complex array of symptoms that don’t always add up. On this episode of The Allergist, we crack the case on how to spot MCAS in its various disguises and offer a roadmap for managing this puzzling disorder. (October 29, 2024)

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On this episode of The Allergist, we team up with Dr. Priya Bansal, a triple board-certified allergist, to tackle the challenges of managing food allergies and the anxiety that often comes with them. Dr. Bansal walks us through real-world cases that allergists frequently encounter, offering practical strategies to support patients and families. (October 15, 2024)

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Managing drug allergies can be a delicate balancing act, especially when life-saving medications are involved. In this episode of The Allergist, we unpack its complexities -from distinguishing them from other adverse drug reactions to navigating the tricky terrain of desensitization- with Dr. Christine Song, an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Toronto and drug allergy lead at St. Michael’s Hospital. (October 1, 2024)

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Allergy seasons ebb and flow, but there’s one drug that maintains its place in household medicine cabinets: Benadryl. In this episode, we tackle the lingering myths and outdated uses of first-generation antihistamines with Dr. Stuart Carr, Chief Medical Officer at Snö Asthma and Allergy in Abu Dhabi and past president of the CSACI. From their history to their ongoing role in primary care, we uncover the risks of these older drugs, and the clear benefits of second-generation antihistamines. (September 17, 2024)

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As the leaves begin to fall, and the wasps begin to invade every patio lunch, we sit down with Dr. David Golden -a leading expert on venom allergies and retired associate professor from Johns Hopkins- to explore the swarm of complexities surrounding venom immunotherapy, from the nuances of diagnosis to emerging treatments on the horizon. (September 3, 2024)

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Join us for a comprehensive discussion on Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES) with Dr. Anna Nowak-Wegrzyn, a leading expert in pediatric allergy and immunology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. In this episode of The Allergist, Dr. Nowak-Wegrzyn sheds light on this unique and often perplexing condition, offering critical insights for healthcare providers. (August 20, 2024)

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In this episode of The Allergist we are joined by Dr. Samira Jeimy, an assistant professor in the Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy at Western University, for a deep dive into secondary immunodeficiencies. Dr. Jeimy shares her extensive knowledge on acquired immunodeficiency, providing valuable insights for healthcare providers. (August 6, 2024)

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Join us in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Stephen Betschel, an associate professor in the Department of Medicine’s Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, and a staff clinical immunologist and allergist in the Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology at St. Michael’s Hospital and Division of Respirology at University Health Network. Dr. Betschel, a global authority on hereditary angioedema (HAE), shares his extensive knowledge on this rare and potentially life-threatening condition. (July 23, 2024)

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Dr. Anne Ellis returns as a guest on The Allergist to explore the intricacies of Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS), also known as Oral Allergy Syndrome. A leading expert in allergic diseases, Dr. Ellis guides listeners through the complex landscape of PFAS, offering insights into diagnosis, management  and patient care. (July 9, 2024)

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Join us as we welcome Dr. Tiffany Wong, an associate clinical professor at the University of British Columbia and the medical lead of the BC Children’s Hospital allergy clinic. In this episode of The Allergist, she covers the intricacies of diagnosing and managing preschool asthma, dispels common myths and emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and effective management in young children. (June 25, 2024)

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We sit down with Dr. Maureen Petersen, a pediatric allergist and immunologist from North Carolina Chapel Hill, to explore the challenges of managing chronic illness from the perspective of both the physician and the parent. Dr. Petersen brings a unique personal connection to this topic, having navigated her daughter’s chronic illnesses while pursuing a medical career. (June 11, 2024)

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In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Philippe Bégin, a renowned expert in allergy and immunology from the University of Montreal. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the evolving field of adult food allergies, practical advice and expert perspectives that are essential for anyone dealing with this condition. (May 28, 2024)

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Join us for an enlightening discussion with Dr. Michael Cyr on how shared decision-making can enhance patient care and improve outcomes in allergy and immunology. This episode is essential for healthcare professionals seeking to refine a balanced approach to patient-centered care and evidence-based practice. (May 14, 2024)

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Venture into the evolving landscape of food allergy management as we welcome Professor Jonathan Hourihane, a leading figure in pediatric allergy and immunotherapy from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. In this episode, we explore the latest strategies in dietary advancement therapies and the critical role of early food introduction. (April 30, 2024)

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Asthma remains a formidable foe, particularly when it escalates to its severe form. In this episode of “The Allergist” we are joined by Dr. Jason Lee, a leading expert in allergy and immunology, to explore the complexities of severe asthma, the revolutionary impact of biologic therapies and the evolution of asthma treatment. (April 16, 2024)

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Join us in this episode where Dr. Moshe Ben-Shoshan tackles the intriguing world of chronic urticaria; cutting through common misconceptions, and walking us through the latest in diagnostic strategies and management options for hives. From the targeted effectiveness of second-generation antihistamines to the advanced treatment possibilities offered by biologics like omalizumab, and even the role of immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine.

(April 2, 2024)

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In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Adam Byrne, an expert allergist and clinical immunologist, to unravel the complex relationship between climate change and allergic diseases. Dr. Byrne sheds light on how rising global temperatures, increased pollution, and changing ecosystems are not just environmental issues but are directly impacting the prevalence and severity of allergic conditions. (March 19, 2024)

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Dr. David Stukus, a leading pediatric allergist and clinical immunologist from Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, joins us this episode to dive into the critical issues surrounding food allergy diagnostics and the latest  advancements in treatment options, including developments in the field of oral immunotherapy (OIT) and the recent FDA approval of Omalizumab for food allergies. (March 5, 2024)

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On this episode of “The Allergist”, we explore what leadership in medicine actually means with Dr. Zainab Abdurrahman, an accomplished allergist and clinical immunologist. Dr. Abdurrahman, who wears many hats including that of an assistant clinical professor of pediatrics at McMaster University and the incoming president-elect of the Ontario Medical Association, shares her insights on what it means to be a leader in the medical field. (February 20, 2024)

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On this episode of “The Allergist”, we’re  climbing  the  food  ladder with  Dr. Douglas Mack, a pediatric allergy, asthma, and immunology specialist. Dr. Mack brings his expertise to the table, discussing the nuances of milk and egg allergies in children. Are all allergies created equal? Spoiler alert: they’re not. (February 6, 2024)

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Join us in a fast paced conversation with Dr. Victoria Cook, a trailblazer in Quality Improvement, as we discuss how QI is not just reshaping patient care but also revitalizing the healthcare workforce by mitigating burnout. (January 23, 2024)

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Join us on this eye-opening episode, where we explore the latest breakthroughs in allergy and immunology with Dr. Matthew Greenhawt as he walks us through the pivotal articles of 2023 that are redefining the field. (January 9, 2024)

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Venture  into  the  realm  of  allergic  rhinitis  as  we welcome   Dr. Anne Ellis, co-author of the latest Canadian guidelines for this common condition, to unravel the complexities of this disease and explore the latest treatment protocols. (December 19, 2023)

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Join us in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Edmond Chan, a leading voice in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Dive into the ever-evolving landscape of this intriguing condition and explore the latest in medical management. (December 5, 2023)

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Expert allergy and immunology specialist Dr. Ana-Maria Copaescu joins us on this episode of The Allergist to unravel the intricacies of penicillin allergy, a commonly misunderstood health concern. (November 21, 2023)

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Join us as we delve into the intricate world of immunodeficiency with pediatric immunologist and allergist, Dr. Rae Brager. In a conversation that illuminates the often-overlooked complexities of the immune system, a light is shed on the multifaceted nature of immunodeficiencies, from battling infections to immune dysregulation. (November 7, 2023)

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Dive deep into the realm of skin health as we sit down with Dr. Vipul Jain to untangle the intricacies of atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, on this instalment of “The Allergist.” Shed light on the myths, distinguish the reality, and explore the best therapeutic avenues for this prevalent skin condition. (October 24, 2023)

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Venture into the heart of anaphylaxis matters as Dr. Elissa Abrams, a recognized expert on severe allergic reactions, dispels doubts, dismantles misconceptions, and offers an in-depth understanding of anaphylaxis and its evolving treatments. (October 10, 2023)

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At-Home Management of Food-Induced Anaphylaxis Statement

As we navigate through peak asthma week, we sit down with Dr. Andrew O’Keefe, a renowned allergist and clinical immunologist from St. John’s, Newfoundland, to dive deep into the myths and misunderstandings surrounding asthma and the array of medications available. (September 26, 2023)

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