The Relationship Between Microtia and Complex Chronic Conditions: A Comprehensive Analysis of 20 000 Patients

BackgroundMicrotia is a congenital anomaly characterized by malformation of the external ear. The complex chronic conditions (CCC) classification system identifies children with long-standing health problems based on various body systems and disease types. This study utilized the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database to investigate the relationship between microtia and CCCs to guide screening protocols and provide insight into patient-centered treatment.MethodsA retrospective review of PHIS was conducted between 2015 and 2023. Patients were identified with an initial encounter with an associated microtia diagnosis from all participating hospitals. Patient demographics, associated organ system flags, and CCCs were collected and analyzed. Descriptive statistics were performed and effect sizes were calculated to assess associations between variables and microtia complexity.ResultsA total of 20,313 patients with microtia were identified. Of these patients, 11 183 were male (55.1%), non-Hispanic White (n = 8089, 41.9%), or Hispanic (n = 6512, 33.8%). Nearly 40% of diagnoses were associated with at least 1 CCC (n = 8234), and a significant proportion (n = 5715) were noted to have 2 or more CCCs. Cardiovascular diagnoses were among the most common organ system affected (16.8%), followed by gastrointestinal conditions (15.4%).ConclusionThis study highlights a significant correlation between microtia and CCCs. With 40% of patients diagnosed with microtia also presenting with at least 1 CCC, this study underscores the importance of comprehensive medical assessment and care strategies while further supporting the increased correlation of cardiac conditions in this population. This necessitates a re-evaluation of first-line screening modalities for patients presenting with microtia.