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Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Cardiac dimensions and function in children with obesity
Anant Khositseth1, Umaporn Suthutvoravut, Nalinee Chongviriyaphan
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand. alaks@diamond.mahidol.ac.th
Indian Heart Journal
|January 6, 2009
Summary
Obesity in children typically shows normal left ventricular (LV) dimensions and systolic function. However, the left ventricular myocardial performance index (LMPI) was abnormal in 33% of obese children, indicating potential early LV global dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Health
- Obesity Medicine
Background:
- Childhood obesity can lead to changes in heart structure and function.
- Cardiac dysfunction in youth may impact adult quality of life.
- Early detection of cardiac changes in obese children is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate left ventricular (LV) dimensions in obese children.
- To assess LV systolic function in this population.
- To determine the left ventricular myocardial performance index (LMPI) and its correlation with obesity severity.
Main Methods:
- Echocardiography was performed on 33 obese children (mean age 9.8 years).
- Measurements included LV dimensions, LV shortening fraction (LVFS), LV ejection fraction (LVEF), and LMPI.
- Children were categorized by obesity severity based on %IBW (ideal body weight).
Main Results:
- Most LV dimensions and systolic function parameters (LVFS, LVEF) were within normal limits.
- Two children (6%) showed mild LV dilatation.
- Abnormal LMPI (>0.4) was observed in 33% of participants, irrespective of obesity severity.
Conclusions:
- Obese children generally maintain normal LV dimensions and systolic function.
- The LMPI is a sensitive indicator of subclinical LV global dysfunction in pediatric obesity.
- Abnormal LMPI in 33% of cases suggests a need for early screening for cardiac dysfunction in obese children.
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