Related Experiment Videos
Infective endocarditis in children: profile in a developing country
A Dhawan1, A Grover, R K Marwaha
1Department of Paediatrics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Annals of Tropical Paediatrics
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Infective endocarditis in Indian children presents differently than in Western countries, often occurring in those with underlying heart conditions or preceding infections. This study highlights a high mortality rate in pediatric patients, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
Background:
- Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious infection affecting heart valves and inner lining.
- Understanding the specific profile of IE in pediatric populations in developing countries is crucial for effective management.
- Previous studies have primarily focused on IE in adults or in developed nations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical profile and outcomes of infective endocarditis in Indian children under 16 years of age.
- To compare the characteristics of pediatric IE in India with those reported in Europe and the USA.
- To identify risk factors and mortality predictors in this specific demographic.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted on 37 pediatric patients diagnosed with infective endocarditis between January 1984 and December 1990.
- Data collected included patient demographics, underlying cardiac conditions, preceding illnesses, microbiological findings, and treatment outcomes.
- Statistical analysis was performed to determine the prevalence of different etiological agents and associated conditions.
Main Results:
- The study included 37 patients (26 boys, 11 girls) aged 2-16 years.
- A significant proportion had underlying heart disease: 48.6% congenital, 35.1% rheumatic.
- Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus viridans were the most common pathogens identified; blood cultures were positive in only 43.2% of cases.
- The mortality rate was high at 43.2%, attributed to hemodynamic compromise, sepsis, and limited surgical options.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric infective endocarditis in India exhibits a distinct profile compared to Western countries, with a notable prevalence of underlying heart disease.
- The high mortality rate underscores the challenges in managing IE in developing nations, necessitating improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
- Early recognition and prompt intervention are critical for improving outcomes in children with infective endocarditis.