Pediatric Disease Conditions: System-Based Approach

 

Pediatric Disease Conditions: System-Based Approach

Introduction

Pediatric diseases can be classified based on the affected organ systems. Proper medical and surgical management ensures effective treatment and better outcomes in children.

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1. Respiratory System Disorders

a. Asthma

• Symptoms: Wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing.
• Medical Management:
  • Bronchodilators (Salbutamol, Ipratropium)
  • Corticosteroids (Budesonide, Prednisolone)
  • Leukotriene receptor antagonists (Montelukast)
• Surgical Management: Not typically required unless complications arise.

b. Pneumonia

• Symptoms: Fever, cough, difficulty breathing.
• Medical Management:
  • Antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Azithromycin)
  • Oxygen therapy for hypoxia
  • Antipyretics for fever control
• Surgical Management: Drainage of empyema if present.

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2. Cardiovascular System Disorders

a. Congenital Heart Defects (CHD)

• Symptoms: Cyanosis, poor feeding, murmurs.
• Medical Management:
  • Diuretics (Furosemide)
  • ACE inhibitors (Enalapril)
  • Digoxin for heart failure
• Surgical Management:
  • Surgical correction (Tetralogy of Fallot repair, ASD/VSD closure, valve replacement)

b. Kawasaki Disease

• Symptoms: Fever, rash, conjunctivitis, swollen lymph nodes.
• Medical Management:
  • IV Immunoglobulin (IVIG)
  • Aspirin therapy
• Surgical Management: Coronary artery intervention if aneurysm develops.

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3. Gastrointestinal System Disorders

a. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

• Symptoms: Regurgitation, irritability, feeding difficulties.
• Medical Management:
  • Proton pump inhibitors (Omeprazole, Lansoprazole)
  • Feeding modifications (small, frequent meals)
• Surgical Management: Fundoplication in severe cases.

b. Intussusception

• Symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, bloody stools.
• Medical Management:
  • IV fluids, nasogastric decompression
  • Air/contrast enema for reduction
• Surgical Management: Resection if non-operative methods fail.

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4. Neurological System Disorders

a. Epilepsy

• Symptoms: Recurrent seizures, altered consciousness.
• Medical Management:
  • Antiepileptic drugs (Carbamazepine, Valproate)
  • Lifestyle modifications
• Surgical Management: Epilepsy surgery in refractory cases.

b. Hydrocephalus

• Symptoms: Enlarged head, vomiting, irritability.
• Medical Management: Symptomatic relief with diuretics.
• Surgical Management: Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement.

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5. Endocrine System Disorders

a. Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1)

• Symptoms: Polyuria, polydipsia, weight loss.
• Medical Management:
  • Insulin therapy
  • Blood glucose monitoring
• Surgical Management: Pancreatic transplant in select cases.

b. Congenital Hypothyroidism

• Symptoms: Poor feeding, lethargy, delayed growth.
• Medical Management: Thyroid hormone replacement (Levothyroxine).
• Surgical Management: Not typically required.

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6. Musculoskeletal System Disorders

a. Rickets

• Symptoms: Bone pain, deformities, delayed growth.
• Medical Management:
  • Vitamin D and calcium supplementation
• Surgical Management: Correction of deformities if severe.

b. Clubfoot

• Symptoms: Foot deformity at birth.
• Medical Management:
  • Serial casting (Ponseti method)
• Surgical Management: Tendon release if needed.

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Conclusion

Early diagnosis and appropriate medical and surgical management of pediatric diseases help improve outcomes. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and proper nutrition play a key role in preventing many childhood conditions.