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Childhood heart failure in Ibadan.
1Department of Paediatrics, University College Hospital, Ibadan.
West African Journal of Medicine
|May 29, 2003
Summary
Congestive cardiac failure in children is common in Nigerian emergency pediatric practice. Preventable causes like infections and severe anemia are the leading culprits.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Cardiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Congestive cardiac failure (CCF) is a significant pediatric health concern.
- Understanding the etiological factors of CCF in children is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the causes and patterns of congestive cardiac failure in pediatric admissions.
- To identify the most frequent underlying conditions leading to heart failure in children.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 100 consecutive pediatric admissions for congestive cardiac failure.
- Data collected over a 10-month period at University College Hospital, Ibadan.
Main Results:
- Congestive cardiac failure accounted for 5.8% of pediatric admissions.
- The primary causes identified were acute lower respiratory tract infections (36%), intrinsic heart disease (31%), and severe anemia (28%).
- Renal disorders (3%) and septicemia (2%) were less common causes.
Conclusions:
- Congestive cardiac failure is a frequent issue in Nigerian pediatric emergency care.
- A majority of pediatric heart failure cases stem from preventable conditions, highlighting the need for targeted public health interventions.