Dear Colleagues,
The onset of the omicron variant in February 2022 coupled with a change to the virtual format of the 2022 SCCM Congress, led us to another year of the annual congress in virtual format. In this year's congress, our focus will be "Immunology and Immunotherapy in Critical Illness". COVID-19 pandemic and associated immunologic complications managed with previously unfamiliar immunotherapeutic agents were just a trigger!
Our knowledge of the pathogenesis of various critical illnesses has evolved significantly throughout the past few decades and immune organ dysfunction is coming to the forefront of a multitude of illnesses. As complicated as this topic seems, it can no longer be placed on the back burner. It is not just about HIV or immunodeficiency disorders, but now it is part of most of the critical illnesses managed in the intensive care unit including patients with trauma and cardiac surgery. Is there something beyond antibiotics, fluids, and inotropes that needs to be considered while managing sepsis patients? Are all sepsis patients alike and do they have sepsis or do other conditions need to become part of the discussion? While prescribing nutrition or while transfusing blood products, do we need to consider its impact on immune organ function? Though steroids have stood the test of time, immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cell therapy have changed the lives of patients with malignancy, autoimmune diseases, transplant etc. However, when these patients are admitted to the ICU, how do we take care of them? Should the medications be held or continued? How do we understand the interaction of such conditions and presenting illness? All these topics will be addressed by our world-renowned faculty in one packed day. The spectrum of speakers from different professions will be giving their perspective, sharing experience and enriching the day with interactive presentations. Don't forget to join us for the Jeopardy to enjoy while testing your knowledge and cheer our trainees!
Please take advantage of the virtual format and join us from the convenience of your home for the "3rd Annual Virtual Critical Care Conference" of the Midwest Chapter to share knowledge, interact, and network with professionals who share the common passion of caring for the critically ill. Hoping to meet your pet pals and get enticed with awesome summer blooms from your garden at the virtual social networking event at the end of the day!
Please see the attached brochure for the information about the registration and the schedule.
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Varsha Gharpure, MD, FAAP, FCCM
President,
SCCM Midwest Chapter
Pediatric Intensivist,
Advocate Children's Hospital, IL
Clinical Associate Professor,
Rosalind Franklin University School of Medicine, IL
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