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Prevalence of selected pediatric conditions in children with Pierre Robin sequence
M A Elliott1, D A Studen-Pavlovich, D N Ranalli
1School of Dental Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, USA.
Insights
Pierre Robin sequence (PRS) is a congenital condition affecting newborns. This study found high rates of respiratory distress, feeding issues, and middle ear infections in PRS patients, impacting their health and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Genetics
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Pierre Robin sequence (PRS) is a congenital abnormality.
- Characterized by micrognathia (small jaw) and glossoptosis (tongue falling back).
- May occur with or without cleft palate and is associated with various pediatric conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of associated pediatric conditions in patients with PRS.
- To identify relationships between PRS and common comorbidities.
- To inform treatment strategies for pediatric dentists.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective computerized review of 55 confirmed PRS patient records.
- Data collection on associated syndromes, respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, and middle ear pathology.
- Chi-square analysis to assess statistical relationships between conditions.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of otitis media (90.9%) and feeding difficulties (54.5%).
- Significant rates of respiratory distress (36.4% mild, 18.2% severe requiring tracheotomy).
- Statistically significant links between respiratory distress and feeding assistance needs (P=0.012), and otitis media and myringotomy tube placement (P<0.001).
Conclusions:
- Patients with Pierre Robin sequence frequently experience significant comorbidities.
- Respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, and otitis media are highly prevalent.
- Awareness of these associations is crucial for pediatric dentists managing PRS patients.
Abstract:
Pierre Robin sequence (PRS) is a congenital abnormality characterized by micrognathia and glossoptosis, with or without cleft palate. Patients with PRS may demonstrate various pediatric conditions such as associated syndromes, respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, or middle ear pathology. The purpose of this study was to determine, by means of a retrospective computerized review of patient records, the presence of these pediatric conditions in a sample of 55 confirmed patients with PRS. Five patients (9.1%) exhibited associated syndromes; 20 (36.4%) had respiratory distress requiring no assistance; and 10 (18.2%) exhibited severe respiratory distress requiring tracheotomy. A total of 30 patients (54.5%) had early feeding difficulties requiring mechanical assistance to maintain adequate nutrition, and 50 (90.9%) had multiple episodes of otitis media. Chi-square analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between the presence of respiratory difficulties and the need for feeding assistance (P = 0.012); and a highly significant relationship between the presence of otitis media and subsequent myringotomy tube placement (P < 0.001). Pediatric dentists who treat children with PRS should be aware of these relationships when obtaining medical history before establishing strategies to implement a treatment plan.