To explore post-acute infection syndromes (PAIS, also known as infection-associated chronic illnesses, IACC) comprehensively, we've partnered with Osmosis from Elsevier to launch a special ten-part series titled PAIS: Root Causes, Drivers, and Actionable Solutions. This series aims to delve deep into the underlying causes, symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and potential treatments for these complex conditions.
The inaugural episode of this series features our Director of Science Communication, Dr. Raven Baxter, who is joined by a panel of experts:
Dr. Amy Proal, CEO of the PolyBio Research Foundation
Dr. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale University
Dr. Edward Breitschwerdt, Professor of Medicine and Infectious Diseases at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine
In our inaugural episode, we discussed the fundamental biological mechanisms driving the onset of infection-associated chronic conditions. We explored how viral infections, immune responses, and other factors contribute to the development of these conditions.
Additionally, we discussed a lack of standardized diagnostic protocols for infection-associated chronic conditions. This gap in diagnostic protocols leads to delayed treatment and prolonged suffering for patients. Our guests were all aligned with the notion that we need for more robust diagnostic tools to identify these chronic conditions early.
We also touched on the devastating impact of IACC on patients. Many suffer from various symptoms that significantly impair their quality of life, including chronic pain, fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and psychological distress, and much more.
With that being said, we discussed what is needed to move the needle forward. We concluded with a discussion on potential treatments and interventions to manage IACC, stressing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to care, combining medical, psychological, and rehabilitative support to address the diverse needs of IACC patients.
You can watch the full episode below, or visit
Osmosis for the audio version and the episode transcript. By fostering collaborations between researchers, clinicians, and patients, the Cohen Center for Recovery from Complex Chronic Illness is paving the way for innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes and enhance the quality of life for those affected by IACC.
