Emerging Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Pediatric Care

Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies such as machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), predictive analytics and other tools are rapidly changing pediatric health care, using large amounts of health data. AI tools aid in triage, real-time monitoring and risk stratification in acute care settings, towards improving overall outcomes and fewer complications. During newborn resuscitation, AI analyses real-time data, can guide decisions and enhance training. Computer vision systems with AI tools can generate reliable neonatal bilirubin estimates without the need for blood sampling. AI technology is also being used in the management of necrotising enterocolitis, respiratory distress syndrome, and screening and early diagnosis of retinopathy of prematurity. ML models assist in detecting brain injuries on MRI for conditions such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, intraventricular hemorrhage; MRI biomarkers can be analyzed using AI to predict neurodevelopmental outcomes. AI-based clinical decision support systems have been deployed to enhance workflows and outcomes by early detection of disease, reducing medication errors and help clinicians improve decision-making. However, there remain ethical and practical challenges in the use of AI including data privacy, the need for high-quality pediatric datasets, rigorous clinical validation and transparency, to ensure that AI strengthens clinical judgement and is trustworthy.