Clinical Profiles and Medication Predictors in Early Childhood Psychiatric Referrals: A 10-Year Retrospective Study

Area of Science:

• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• Developmental Psychology
• Pediatric Neurology

Background:

• Limited comprehensive clinical data exist for psychiatric disorders in children aged 0-72 months.
• This study addresses a gap by evaluating a large, long-term sample in Türkiye.
• Early identification and intervention are crucial for developmental outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify common presenting complaints in young children referred to child psychiatry.
• To analyze diagnostic patterns and psychotropic medication initiation predictors.
• To provide insights for improving early childhood psychiatric services.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 3312 children (0-72 months) at Trakya University Medical Faculty Hospital.
• Data extraction included presenting complaints, diagnoses, medication use, and demographics.
• Logistic regression identified predictors of psychotropic medication initiation.

Main Results:

• Most common complaints: delayed speech, irritability, hyperactivity, stuttering.
• Psychiatric diagnoses and medication initiation were more frequent in boys.
• Predictors of medication initiation included inability to speak, hyperactivity, and lack of eye contact.

Conclusions:

• Specific early childhood complaints strongly predict psychiatric diagnosis and medication.
• Structured assessment protocols are valuable for early childhood psychiatric services.
• Systematic screening can facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment, especially in resource-limited settings.