Continuing Medical Education on Inborn Errors of Metabolism

Did you know that a tiny glitch in our body’s chemistry can have a lifelong impact? This was the central theme of the Continuing Medical Education (CME) event, “Inborn Errors of Metabolism: Basic Biochemistry to Bedside Learning,” hosted by the Department of Biochemistry at Sri Madhusudan Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (SMSIMSR) on January 10, 2025.

Held at the Ataee Shaw lecture hall within the Sri Sathya Sai Rajeshwari memorial block, Muddenahalli, the CME drew an impressive crowd of 254 attendees, including 134 delegates comprising SMSIMSR faculty and medical professionals, alongside 50 I MBBS students, 49 II MBBS students, and 21 Allied Health Sciences (AHS) students.

The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, led by Dr. Raghupathi AR, Director-Medical Education, along with Medical Superintendent Dr. Padmasri; Dr. Veena Bhaskar, Professor & HOD of Biochemistry; Dr. Venkateshappa, Professor of Biochemistry; and the CME speakers: Dr. AshaKiran, Dr. Suresh DR, and Dr. Namitha. The proceedings were skillfully managed by Dr. Rashni, Assistant Professor in Biochemistry, and Mr. Devendra, a PhD student in Lifesciences.

Dr. Veena Bhaskar welcomed the attendees and speakers, presenting each speaker with a copy of “Inner Peace” by Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai. In his inaugural address, Dr. Raghupathi AR congratulated the Department of Biochemistry for initiating the year’s CME series, especially poignant as it coincides with the 100th birth anniversary celebrations of Bhagawan Sri Satya Sai Baba. He emphasised on the importance of such events, providing concentrated learning opportunities that would otherwise require extensive independent study.

The sessions were packed with insightful presentations:

  • Dr. Suresh DR, Chief of Laboratories, Central Lab, Bangalore, laid the groundwork with a talk on “General Concepts of Inborn Errors of Metabolism.”
  • Dr. Ashakiran, Professor-HOD & Principal, Haveri Institute of Medical Sciences, Haveri, explored the cutting-edge field of “Clinical Metabolomics.”
  • Following a brief tea break, Dr. Nandakumar, Professor, Department of Neurochemistry, NIMHANS, Bangalore, delved into the “Role of the Diagnostic Laboratory in the Diagnosis & Management of IEM.”
  • Dr. Namita, Pediatric Intensivist at Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore, provided a crucial clinical perspective in her talk on “IEM: Clinical Approach & Treatment.”
  • Dr. Rohit Cariappa, CEO, Neogen Labs, presented a compelling overview of the “IEM: Global, Indian & Local Scenario – Facts & Figures.”

During the second part of the session, the focus shifted to the critical role of nutrition. The SMSIMSR nutrition team, led by Mrs. Vidya R, along with Mrs. Vidya B and Mrs. Varsha, highlighted the “Importance of Diet & its Effect on Prognosis of Patients with IEM.”

The CME event culminated in a dynamic panel discussion on “Newborn Screening for IEM: Cost-Benefit Analysis – Global & Indian Scenario.” Moderated by Dr. Veena Bhaskar, the panel featured Dr. Suresh, Dr. Rohit, and Dr. Namita, providing a platform for in-depth analysis and debate.

Dr. Venkateshappa delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the attendees and the supporting teams. Feedback was collected via a Google Form link and QR code, ensuring participant input for future events.

This CME event served as a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, bringing together experts, medical professionals, and students to advance the understanding and management of Inborn Errors of Metabolism. It underscored the importance of continued learning in this rapidly evolving healthcare field, ultimately improving patient care.