Condition Lookup
Speciality:
Pediatrics
Number of Conditions: 82
Chickenpox
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Viral Exanthems
Symptoms:
itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters; fever; fatigue; loss of appetite; headache
Root Cause:
Infection with Varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical diagnosis based on rash appearance; PCR testing or serologic testing in atypical cases.
Treatment:
Symptomatic relief (e.g., antihistamines, acetaminophen); antiviral therapy (e.g., acyclovir) in high-risk cases.
Medications:
Acyclovir (antiviral medication) may be prescribed for severe cases or immunocompromised patients. Antihistamines or calamine lotion may be used to manage itching.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Before widespread vaccination, almost universal in children; now much less common in vaccinated populations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, exposure to infected individuals, immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically resolves without complications in healthy children; serious complications can occur in high-risk groups.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, encephalitis, or reactivation as shingles later in life.
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Prematurity-Related Conditions
Symptoms:
rapid breathing (tachypnea); grunting; flaring nostrils; blue tint to the skin (cyanosis); poor feeding; low oxygen levels; difficulty breathing
Root Cause:
Insufficient production of surfactant, a substance that keeps the alveoli in the lungs open, causing lung collapse and impaired oxygen exchange.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation in a preterm infant, chest X-ray showing "ground-glass" appearance, blood gas analysis showing low oxygen levels, and prenatal history of prematurity.
Treatment:
Administration of exogenous surfactant, oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Supportive care, including fluid management and temperature regulation.
Medications:
Exogenous surfactants such as beractant or poractant alfa (classified as surfactant replacement therapy). Steroids like dexamethasone or betamethasone may be administered to the mother before delivery to enhance fetal lung maturity.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 60% of infants born at less than 28 weeks gestation, decreasing to less than 5% in infants born after 34 weeks gestation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, male sex, cesarean delivery without labor, maternal diabetes, and multiple births (e.g., twins).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely treatment, most infants recover without long-term complications. Severe cases may lead to chronic lung disease (e.g., bronchopulmonary dysplasia).
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic lung disease (bronchopulmonary dysplasia), air leaks (pneumothorax), infections, and delayed neurodevelopment.
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Prematurity-Related Conditions
Symptoms:
persistent need for oxygen; difficulty breathing; poor growth; recurrent respiratory infections; wheezing; retractions (use of chest muscles to breathe)
Root Cause:
Lung injury caused by mechanical ventilation, oxygen therapy, and inflammation in preterm infants with immature lungs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on the need for supplemental oxygen at 28 days postnatal age and/or at 36 weeks postmenstrual age, along with clinical and radiographic findings.
Treatment:
Oxygen therapy, noninvasive or mechanical ventilation, diuretics to manage fluid buildup, nutritional support, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ) to ease breathing, diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) to reduce fluid in the lungs, corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ) to reduce inflammation, and antibiotics for preventing or treating infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10–30% of infants born at less than 28 weeks gestation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, mechanical ventilation, oxygen therapy, maternal infections, and intrauterine growth restriction.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most children improve with age, but some may have long-term respiratory issues such as asthma or reduced lung function.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, recurrent infections, developmental delays, and poor growth.
Neonatal Jaundice
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Common Neonatal Conditions
Symptoms:
yellowing of the skin and eyes (icterus); poor feeding; lethargy; dark urine; pale-colored stools in severe cases
Root Cause:
Elevated bilirubin levels due to the immaturity of the liver’s ability to process and excrete bilirubin or excessive breakdown of red blood cells.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual examination, serum bilirubin levels, and transcutaneous bilirubinometry.
Treatment:
Phototherapy (light therapy) to break down bilirubin, exchange transfusion in severe cases, and addressing underlying causes (e.g., infections, hemolysis).
Medications:
Phenobarbital (induces enzyme activity to aid bilirubin clearance, rarely used in mild cases) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) for immune-related causes such as hemolytic disease.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 60% of full-term newborns and 80% of preterm newborns within the first week of life.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, maternal diabetes, breastfeeding difficulties, blood type incompatibilities (e.g., ABO or Rh incompatibility), and bruising during delivery.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent if treated promptly; severe cases can result in kernicterus (bilirubin-induced brain damage) if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kernicterus, hearing loss, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Gastrointestinal Conditions in Preterm Infants
Symptoms:
abdominal distension; vomiting (sometimes bilious); bloody stools; poor feeding; lethargy; temperature instability
Root Cause:
Inflammation and necrosis of the intestinal tissue due to immaturity of the gastrointestinal system, bacterial colonization, and impaired blood flow.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms, abdominal X-rays showing pneumatosis intestinalis (air within the intestinal wall), and laboratory tests (e.g., elevated inflammatory markers).
Treatment:
Bowel rest (NPO), nasogastric decompression, antibiotics, and surgery in severe cases (e.g., bowel resection).
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., ampicillin , gentamicin , or metronidazole ) to treat or prevent sepsis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 5–10% of very low birth weight infants (<1,500 grams).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, formula feeding, low birth weight, perinatal asphyxia, and prolonged use of umbilical catheters.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies; mild cases resolve with treatment, while severe cases requiring surgery may result in long-term complications like short bowel syndrome.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, intestinal perforation, strictures, and short bowel syndrome.
Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Neurological Conditions in Preterm Infants
Symptoms:
apnea; bradycardia; lethargy; poor muscle tone; seizures; bulging fontanelle; pale skin; weak cry
Root Cause:
Bleeding into the brain's ventricular system, often due to fragile blood vessels in the developing brain of preterm infants.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Cranial ultrasound or MRI to detect bleeding in the ventricles of the brain.
Treatment:
Supportive care, monitoring intracranial pressure, and surgical interventions (e.g., ventriculoperitoneal shunt) for hydrocephalus if needed.
Medications:
No direct medications for IVH; supportive therapies include diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) for hydrocephalus and anticonvulsants (e.g., phenobarbital ) for seizures.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in 20–50% of infants born before 32 weeks gestation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, very low birth weight, birth trauma, respiratory distress, and maternal infection.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Mild cases may resolve without long-term issues; severe cases can lead to hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, or developmental delays.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, and developmental delays.
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Vision-Related Conditions in Preterm Infants
Symptoms:
abnormal eye movements; difficulty focusing; vision loss in severe cases
Root Cause:
Abnormal growth of retinal blood vessels in preterm infants due to incomplete vascular development at birth.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Regular eye exams using indirect ophthalmoscopy by a specialist in preterm infants.
Treatment:
Laser therapy or cryotherapy to prevent progression; intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents in severe cases.
Medications:
Anti-VEGF agents (e.g., bevacizumab ) to inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 40–50% of infants born at less than 31 weeks gestation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, low birth weight, oxygen therapy, sepsis, and intraventricular hemorrhage.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early detection and treatment result in good outcomes; severe untreated cases can lead to blindness.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Retinal detachment, glaucoma, strabismus, and vision loss.
Congenital heart defects (e.g., Tetralogy of Fallot, ventricular septal defect)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Congenital Disorders
Symptoms:
cyanosis (bluish skin); difficulty breathing; poor feeding; failure to thrive; heart murmur; fatigue during feeding or exertion
Root Cause:
Structural abnormalities in the heart present at birth, affecting normal blood flow.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Prenatal ultrasound, echocardiography, chest X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG), and sometimes cardiac MRI or catheterization.
Treatment:
Surgical repair (e.g., patching septal defects, reconstructing valves), catheter-based interventions, or medication management for symptoms.
Medications:
Medications like propranolol (beta-blocker) for controlling heart rate, furosemide (loop diuretic) for reducing fluid overload, and digoxin (cardiac glycoside) to improve heart function are commonly used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 100 live births worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of congenital heart defects, maternal diabetes, infections during pregnancy (e.g., rubella), and exposure to certain medications or substances.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; many cases are treatable with surgery and/or medication, with good long-term outcomes if treated early.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, arrhythmias, pulmonary hypertension, delayed growth, and developmental delays.
Cleft lip and palate
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Congenital Disorders
Symptoms:
visible gap in the lip or roof of the mouth; difficulty feeding; speech difficulties; recurrent ear infections
Root Cause:
Failure of the facial structures to fuse properly during fetal development.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Prenatal ultrasound, physical examination at birth.
Treatment:
Surgical repair of the lip and/or palate, speech therapy, dental or orthodontic care.
Medications:
Pain management after surgery often includes acetaminophen or ibuprofen (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Antibiotics may be prescribed if an infection arises.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 700 live births globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, maternal smoking, diabetes, or use of certain medications (e.g., anticonvulsants) during pregnancy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely surgical intervention and multidisciplinary care.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Feeding difficulties, speech impairment, hearing loss, dental issues, and social challenges.
Gastroschisis and omphalocele
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Congenital Disorders
Symptoms:
visible abdominal organs protruding outside the body; difficulty feeding; poor growth; susceptibility to infection
Root Cause:
Defect in the abdominal wall leading to externalization of the intestines or other abdominal organs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Prenatal ultrasound, physical examination at birth.
Treatment:
Surgical repair to return the organs to the abdominal cavity and close the defect, nutritional support, and infection prevention.
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., ampicillin , gentamicin ) to prevent or treat infections post-surgery, and analgesics (e.g., morphine ) for pain control.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Gastroschisis
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Younger maternal age, maternal smoking, drug use, or certain medications during pregnancy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely surgical intervention; long-term outcomes depend on associated conditions and complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal damage, feeding difficulties, infection, and growth delays.
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Congenital Disorders
Symptoms:
severe breathing difficulties; cyanosis; scaphoid (sunken) abdomen; decreased breath sounds on one side of the chest
Root Cause:
Failure of the diaphragm to close completely during development, allowing abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Prenatal ultrasound, chest X-ray, and echocardiography post-birth to assess lung and heart function.
Treatment:
Surgical repair of the diaphragm, respiratory support (ventilation, ECMO), and nutritional support.
Medications:
Surfactants to improve lung function in newborns, nitric oxide to manage pulmonary hypertension, and diuretics like furosemide for fluid balance.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 1 in 3,000 live births.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic factors, family history, and maternal smoking.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on the severity of lung underdevelopment and associated complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, chronic lung disease, feeding difficulties, and developmental delays.
Congenital hypothyroidism
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Endocrine Disorders
Sub-category: Thyroid Disorders
Symptoms:
jaundice; poor feeding; lethargy; hoarse cry; constipation; prolonged neonatal jaundice; large anterior fontanelle; macroglossia; puffy face; dry skin; hypotonia
Root Cause:
Underactive or absent thyroid gland at birth, leading to insufficient thyroid hormone production required for normal growth and brain development.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through newborn screening with elevated TSH and low T4 levels.
Treatment:
Treated with lifelong levothyroxine replacement to ensure normal growth and development.
Medications:
Levothyroxine is prescribed, which is a synthetic thyroid hormone (T4 replacement) used to normalize thyroid hormone levels.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 1 in 2,000 to 4,000 live births globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female sex, family history of thyroid disorders, iodine deficiency during pregnancy, genetic mutations affecting thyroid development.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early detection and treatment; normal growth and development can be achieved if treatment begins within the first few weeks of life. Untreated cases can lead to intellectual disability and stunted growth.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intellectual disability, growth retardation, developmental delays, and permanent neurological impairment if untreated.
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Metabolic Disorders
Symptoms:
musty body odor; seizures; eczema; intellectual disability if untreated; delayed developmental milestones
Root Cause:
Inability to metabolize phenylalanine due to a deficiency in the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Newborn screening with blood test (phenylalanine levels), confirmatory genetic testing.
Treatment:
A lifelong low-phenylalanine diet, special medical formulas, and in some cases, enzyme replacement therapy.
Medications:
Sapropterin (Kuvan), a synthetic form of tetrahydrobiopterin, helps reduce phenylalanine levels in responsive patients.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 15,000 newborns worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autosomal recessive inheritance; higher prevalence in certain ethnic groups.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with dietary management; untreated cases result in severe intellectual disability and neurological problems.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Irreversible brain damage, seizures, developmental delays, and psychological issues if untreated.
Neonatal sepsis
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
fever or hypothermia; poor feeding; lethargy; irritability; breathing difficulties; low blood pressure; jaundice; seizures
Root Cause:
A systemic infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi in newborns, often due to immature immune systems and exposure during or after birth.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, urine culture, complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and imaging if localized infection is suspected.
Treatment:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics initially, tailored based on culture results; supportive care including fluids, oxygen therapy, and management of complications such as shock or organ failure.
Medications:
Empiric treatment often includes a combination of ampicillin (a penicillin antibiotic) and gentamicin (an aminoglycoside antibiotic); vancomycin (a glycopeptide antibiotic) is added if MRSA is suspected. Antifungal medications like fluconazole may be used if fungal sepsis is identified.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 to 5 per 1,000 live births globally; higher prevalence in low-resource settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, prolonged rupture of membranes, maternal infections, low birth weight, invasive procedures, and lack of prenatal care.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, many neonates recover fully; however, mortality rates can range from 5% to 50% depending on the severity and resource availability.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, organ failure, developmental delays, cerebral palsy, and death in severe cases.
Neonatal herpes simplex virus infection
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
skin vesicles; eye involvement (keratoconjunctivitis); seizures; lethargy; poor feeding; respiratory distress; liver dysfunction; shock
Root Cause:
Perinatal transmission of herpes simplex virus (HSV) from the mother, either during vaginal delivery or via ascending infection in utero.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Viral culture or PCR testing of skin lesions, blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or other body fluids; imaging (MRI) for neurological involvement; ophthalmological exam for eye involvement.
Treatment:
Intravenous (IV) antiviral therapy with acyclovir for 14–21 days; supportive care for organ dysfunction.
Medications:
Acyclovir (an antiviral medication) is the primary treatment; it inhibits viral DNA synthesis to prevent replication.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 1 in 3,200 to 1 in 20,000 live births in high-resource settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Primary maternal HSV infection during pregnancy, vaginal delivery with active lesions, prolonged rupture of membranes, and preterm birth.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the type of infection (localized vs. disseminated vs. CNS); localized infections have a better prognosis, while disseminated or CNS involvement has higher morbidity and mortality.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological impairment, developmental delays, recurrent HSV outbreaks, blindness (ocular involvement), and death in severe cases.
Congenital infections (e.g., toxoplasmosis, rubella, CMV, syphilis, Zika)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
growth restriction; microcephaly; jaundice; hepatosplenomegaly; rash; eye abnormalities; hearing loss; neurological deficits
Root Cause:
Transplacental transmission of pathogens during pregnancy, causing fetal infection and subsequent organ damage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Maternal history and prenatal testing, PCR or serologic testing of infant blood, imaging (ultrasound or MRI), and evaluation of symptoms at birth.
Treatment:
Treatment varies by pathogen - Toxoplasmosis (Pyrimethamine, sulfadiazine, and leucovorin). Rubella (Supportive care; no specific antiviral treatment). CMV (Antiviral therapy with ganciclovir or valganciclovir for severe cases). Syphilis (Penicillin G (antibiotic)). Zika (Supportive care; no specific antiviral treatment).
Medications:
Treatments include antibiotics (penicillin for syphilis), antivirals (ganciclovir for CMV), and antiparasitic drugs (pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine for toxoplasmosis).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies by infection; for example, congenital CMV affects approximately 0.5% to 1% of live births globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Maternal infection during pregnancy, lack of prenatal care, low socioeconomic status, and living in endemic areas for specific pathogens.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the pathogen and severity; some infections (e.g., rubella and Zika) may result in significant long-term disabilities, while others may be treatable with minimal residual effects.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological deficits, hearing loss, vision impairment, developmental delays, stillbirth, and miscarriage.
Hypoglycemia
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders
Symptoms:
jitteriness; irritability; lethargy; poor feeding; cyanosis; apnea; seizures
Root Cause:
Low blood glucose levels caused by inadequate glycogen stores, excessive insulin, impaired gluconeogenesis, or increased glucose utilization.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood glucose measurement via heel prick or venous sampling; confirmatory laboratory tests for serum glucose, insulin levels, and ketones.
Treatment:
Immediate administration of glucose (oral or intravenous); long-term management depends on the underlying cause and may include dietary modifications or medications.
Medications:
Dextrose (administered intravenously for immediate correction); glucagon injections for emergency treatment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in newborns, particularly in preterm infants or infants of diabetic mothers.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, maternal diabetes, intrauterine growth restriction, perinatal asphyxia, or sepsis.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; delayed intervention can lead to permanent neurological damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Seizures, developmental delay, cerebral palsy, and other long-term neurodevelopmental impairments if untreated.
Hyperbilirubinemia
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders
Symptoms:
yellow discoloration of skin and eyes (jaundice); poor feeding; lethargy; irritability; high-pitched crying; arch back (opisthotonos) in severe cases
Root Cause:
Excess bilirubin accumulation due to immature liver function, increased bilirubin production (hemolysis), or delayed excretion.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serum bilirubin measurement; transcutaneous bilirubinometer; Coombs test if hemolysis is suspected.
Treatment:
Phototherapy (light therapy to break down bilirubin); exchange transfusion in severe cases; treatment of underlying cause (e.g., treating hemolysis).
Medications:
No direct medications; intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) may be used in hemolytic disease of the newborn.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 60% of term newborns and 80% of preterm infants.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, breastfeeding, blood group incompatibility (e.g., Rh or ABO), bruising, delayed meconium passage, or maternal diabetes.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early detection and treatment; untreated severe hyperbilirubinemia can cause kernicterus and permanent neurological damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kernicterus, hearing loss, developmental delays, and cerebral palsy in severe or untreated cases.
Inborn Errors of Metabolism
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)
Sub-category: Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders
Symptoms:
poor feeding; lethargy; vomiting; failure to thrive; seizures; distinctive odor in urine (e.g., maple syrup in msud); jaundice; hypoglycemia
Root Cause:
Genetic defects affecting enzymes in metabolic pathways, leading to toxic accumulation of intermediates or energy deficiency.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Newborn screening (heel-prick blood tests); confirmatory tests include enzyme assays, genetic testing, and metabolite analysis in blood or urine.
Treatment:
Dietary management (e.g., protein restriction for MSUD or lactose-free formula for galactosemia); emergency interventions for metabolic crises (e.g., intravenous glucose or dialysis).
Medications:
No specific medications for many conditions; dietary supplements such as thiamine (MSUD) or calcium (galactosemia) may be prescribed.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; varies by condition and population (e.g., MSUD prevalence
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autosomal recessive inheritance; increased risk in consanguineous marriages or certain ethnic groups (e.g., Mennonite populations for MSUD).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the condition; early diagnosis and strict adherence to dietary management can lead to good outcomes; delayed treatment can result in severe neurological damage or death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute metabolic crises, intellectual disability, developmental delay, organ damage (e.g., liver failure in galactosemia).
Failure to Thrive
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Growth and Development Disorders
Sub-category: Growth Issues
Symptoms:
poor weight gain; growth faltering; delayed milestones; fatigue; irritability; loss of subcutaneous fat; muscle wasting
Root Cause:
Inadequate caloric intake, absorption issues (e.g., celiac disease), increased metabolic needs (e.g., congenital heart disease), or neglect.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Detailed history, physical examination, growth chart assessment, nutritional evaluation, and sometimes lab tests or imaging studies.
Treatment:
Addressing the underlying cause, optimizing nutrition, and providing psychosocial support. A multidisciplinary team approach is often required.
Medications:
Medications depend on the underlying cause. For example, if malabsorption is due to celiac disease, a gluten-free diet is prescribed. Iron supplements may be recommended for iron-deficiency anemia.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies based on region and socioeconomic factors; affects up to 5% of children in some populations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, low socioeconomic status, chronic illnesses, feeding difficulties, neglect, or abuse.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely identification and intervention; however, untreated cases may result in long-term developmental and physical delays.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Developmental delays, weakened immunity, stunted growth, and behavioral problems.
Short Stature
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Growth and Development Disorders
Sub-category: Growth Issues
Symptoms:
height below the 3rd percentile for age and sex; slower growth velocity; delayed puberty in some cases; associated syndromic features (if genetic)
Root Cause:
Genetic factors (e.g., familial short stature), endocrine disorders (e.g., growth hormone deficiency), chronic illnesses, or constitutional growth delay.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Growth chart analysis, bone age assessment (X-ray), blood tests (e.g., thyroid function, growth hormone levels), and genetic testing in some cases.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the cause; growth hormone therapy for growth hormone deficiency, thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism, or management of underlying chronic conditions.
Medications:
Growth hormone injections (e.g., somatropin ), if indicated for growth hormone deficiency. These are classified as hormone replacement therapies.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 3% of children; true pathological causes are less common.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, chronic illnesses (e.g., kidney disease), malnutrition, genetic syndromes (e.g., Turner syndrome).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable with appropriate diagnosis and treatment; untreated cases may lead to permanent short stature.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Psychological impact, reduced self-esteem, delayed puberty, or underlying complications of the primary cause.
Gigantism
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Growth and Development Disorders
Sub-category: Excessive Growth Disorders
Symptoms:
abnormally rapid growth; excessively tall stature; enlarged hands and feet; facial changes; joint pain; delayed puberty; headaches
Root Cause:
Excessive secretion of growth hormone, usually due to a pituitary adenoma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Growth chart analysis, blood tests for insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and growth hormone, MRI of the brain to detect pituitary tumors.
Treatment:
Surgery to remove the pituitary adenoma, medication to suppress growth hormone (e.g., somatostatin analogs), or radiation therapy if surgery is not curative.
Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide ), dopamine agonists (e.g., cabergoline ), and growth hormone receptor antagonists (e.g., pegvisomant ). These medications are hormone regulators.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; affects fewer than 1 in 10,000,000 children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of pituitary tumors or genetic syndromes like multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated early; untreated cases can result in severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Diabetes, cardiomegaly, joint problems, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Growth and Development Disorders
Sub-category: Hormonal Deficiencies
Symptoms:
slow growth velocity; height below the 3rd percentile; delayed bone age; increased fat deposition; poor muscle tone; delayed puberty
Root Cause:
Insufficient production of growth hormone by the pituitary gland, often due to congenital abnormalities, trauma, tumors, or idiopathic causes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for IGF-1 and growth hormone levels, growth chart analysis, stimulation tests for growth hormone release, and MRI of the pituitary gland.
Treatment:
Daily subcutaneous injections of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH).
Medications:
Recombinant human growth hormone (e.g., somatropin ) is the primary treatment. It is classified as hormone replacement therapy.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1 in 4,000 to 1 in 10,000 children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Birth trauma, genetic conditions (e.g., Turner syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome), head injuries, or pituitary tumors.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early diagnosis and treatment; untreated cases may lead to permanent short stature and delayed puberty.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Delayed puberty, reduced bone density, metabolic abnormalities, and social or psychological issues related to short stature.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Growth and Development Disorders
Sub-category: Developmental Disorders
Symptoms:
difficulty with social interaction; delayed language development; repetitive behaviors; restricted interests; sensory sensitivities
Root Cause:
Neurological and developmental differences affecting communication, behavior, and social interaction. The exact cause is not known, but it involves genetic and environmental factors.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation by developmental specialists, developmental screenings, and the use of diagnostic tools such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
Treatment:
Behavioral therapy (e.g., Applied Behavior Analysis), speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and educational interventions tailored to the child's needs.
Medications:
Medications may include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for anxiety, antipsychotics like risperidone and aripiprazole for irritability, and stimulants for associated ADHD symptoms.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States, with variations worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of ASD, genetic mutations, advanced parental age, low birth weight, and exposure to certain environmental factors during pregnancy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Outcomes vary widely; with early intervention and tailored therapies, many individuals develop improved communication and social skills.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Difficulties with independent living, increased risk of anxiety, depression, epilepsy, and intellectual disability.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Growth and Development Disorders
Sub-category: Behavioral Disorders
Symptoms:
inattention; impulsivity; hyperactivity; difficulty concentrating; trouble organizing tasks; forgetfulness
Root Cause:
Neurodevelopmental disorder caused by differences in brain structure and function, often involving dysregulation of dopamine pathways.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria, behavioral rating scales, and reports from parents, teachers, and caregivers.
Treatment:
Behavioral therapy, parent training programs, classroom interventions, and medications when needed.
Medications:
Stimulant medications (e.g., methylphenidate , amphetamines) and non-stimulants (e.g., atomoxetine , guanfacine , clonidine ). Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed and are classified as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated to affect 5-10% of children globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of ADHD, low birth weight, prenatal exposure to tobacco, alcohol, or drugs, and adverse early life experiences.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms often improve with age, but many individuals continue to experience challenges into adulthood. With treatment, most children can function well in school and daily life.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Poor academic performance, low self-esteem, increased risk of substance abuse, and difficulties in relationships.
Global developmental delay (GDD)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Growth and Development Disorders
Sub-category: Developmental Delays
Symptoms:
delayed milestones in motor skills, speech, language, cognitive development, and social skills
Root Cause:
Various underlying causes, including genetic syndromes, prenatal exposures, brain injuries, and metabolic disorders.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Comprehensive developmental assessment, neurological examination, genetic testing, metabolic testing, and imaging studies (e.g., MRI or CT scan).
Treatment:
Early intervention services, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and special education services.
Medications:
No specific medications for GDD itself, but underlying causes (e.g., seizures) may require anticonvulsants like levetiracetam or lamotrigine .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1-3% of children under age 5, varying by region and population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, genetic conditions, prenatal infections, lack of oxygen during birth, and environmental deprivation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies based on the cause and access to early interventions; some children catch up with their peers, while others may have long-term developmental disabilities.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and reduced ability to perform daily tasks independently.
Learning disabilities
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Growth and Development Disorders
Sub-category: Cognitive Disorders
Symptoms:
difficulty with reading (dyslexia); difficulty with writing (dysgraphia); difficulty with math (dyscalculia); problems with memory or focus
Root Cause:
Differences in brain structure and function affecting information processing, often with a genetic or environmental basis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Psychoeducational assessments, cognitive testing, and observations of academic performance by specialists.
Treatment:
Individualized education plans (IEPs), educational therapy, tutoring, and accommodations such as extended test times or assistive technology.
Medications:
Medications are not typically prescribed for learning disabilities themselves but may address comorbid conditions like ADHD using stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate ) or non-stimulants (e.g., atomoxetine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 5-15% of school-aged children, depending on the definition and diagnostic criteria.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, premature birth, prenatal exposure to substances, and environmental deprivation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper support, most children can achieve academic success and lead fulfilling lives.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Poor academic performance, low self-esteem, and difficulties with employment or independent living in adulthood.
Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Respiratory Disorders
Sub-category: Chronic Conditions
Symptoms:
chronic wet cough; recurrent sinus infections; frequent middle ear infections; difficulty breathing; infertility in males; recurrent pneumonia; situs inversus in some patients
Root Cause:
Dysfunctional cilia result from genetic mutations, impairing mucociliary clearance and causing buildup of mucus in the respiratory tract and other organs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Nasal nitric oxide testing, electron microscopy of ciliary structure, genetic testing, and high-speed videomicroscopy analysis of ciliary movement.
Treatment:
Airway clearance techniques, antibiotics for infections, hearing aids for conductive hearing loss, and supportive care for respiratory symptoms.
Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin ) to prevent or treat infections, bronchodilators like albuterol for airway relaxation, and anti-inflammatory agents such as inhaled corticosteroids.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 20,000 individuals worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autosomal recessive inheritance; family history of the condition.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies based on severity; early diagnosis and management improve quality of life and reduce complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic respiratory infections, bronchiectasis, hearing loss, infertility, and reduced lung function over time.
Chronic Lung Disease of Prematurity
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Respiratory Disorders
Sub-category: Chronic Conditions
Symptoms:
rapid breathing; difficulty breathing; need for supplemental oxygen; poor weight gain; recurrent respiratory infections; wheezing
Root Cause:
Underdeveloped lungs, inflammation, and oxygen therapy/mechanical ventilation cause scarring and impaired lung development in preterm infants.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history (preterm birth and oxygen/ventilation dependency), chest X-rays, echocardiogram to rule out heart issues, and blood gas analysis.
Treatment:
Oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation (if needed), nutritional support, and medications to reduce lung inflammation and improve breathing.
Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ), diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) to manage fluid buildup, corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ) to reduce inflammation, and surfactant replacement in early management.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10,000–15,000 infants annually in the U.S., primarily those born before 30 weeks of gestation or with low birth weight.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, mechanical ventilation, oxygen therapy, maternal infections, and intrauterine growth restriction.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Many infants improve with age, but some may have long-term respiratory issues, including asthma or reduced lung function.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, asthma, and developmental delays related to chronic oxygen dependence.
Rheumatic Heart Disease
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Cardiovascular Disorders
Sub-category: Acquired Cardiovascular Disorders
Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; chest pain; heart palpitations; swollen joints; fever; unexplained weight loss; skin nodules or rash
Root Cause:
Chronic valvular damage caused by recurrent episodes of acute rheumatic fever, an autoimmune response to group A streptococcal infections (e.g., strep throat).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiography to detect valvular damage, clinical criteria (Jones criteria), history of streptococcal infection, elevated inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), and antistreptolysin O (ASO) titers.
Treatment:
Long-term antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent recurrence (e.g., benzathine penicillin G), management of heart failure with medications, and surgical valve repair or replacement in severe cases.
Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., benzathine penicillin G) - To eradicate streptococcal infection and prevent recurrent rheumatic fever. Diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) - To manage fluid retention in heart failure. Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ) - For arrhythmias or heart failure. Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin ) - For atrial fibrillation or prosthetic valves to prevent thromboembolism.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in low- and middle-income countries, affecting 15-20 million people worldwide. It primarily affects children aged 5-15 years.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Untreated or recurrent streptococcal infections, poor socioeconomic conditions, overcrowding, limited access to medical care.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment and preventive care, progression can be controlled, but severe cases may require lifelong management. Without treatment, it can lead to heart failure and premature death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, atrial fibrillation, infective endocarditis, stroke, and permanent disability due to valvular damage.
Hypertension in Children
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Cardiovascular Disorders
Sub-category: Acquired Cardiovascular Disorders
Symptoms:
headaches; fatigue; dizziness; nosebleeds; shortness of breath; blurred vision; chest pain; asymptomatic (common in mild cases)
Root Cause:
Elevated blood pressure due to either primary (essential) hypertension or secondary causes such as kidney disease, obesity, endocrine disorders, or congenital cardiovascular abnormalities.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serial blood pressure measurements compared to age, sex, and height percentiles; ambulatory blood pressure monitoring; laboratory tests (e.g., kidney function tests, electrolytes); imaging studies (e.g., renal ultrasound, echocardiography).
Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise, weight management) and medications for severe or secondary cases. Treating the underlying cause if identified (e.g., managing kidney disease).
Medications:
ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril ) - To lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine ) - To reduce blood vessel constriction. Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide ) - To decrease fluid retention and lower blood pressure. Beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol ) - To reduce heart rate and blood pressure.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Increasing in prevalence due to rising rates of obesity; affects 2-5% of children and adolescents.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, family history of hypertension, sedentary lifestyle, high-sodium diet, chronic kidney disease, endocrine disorders.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early detection and treatment, but untreated hypertension can lead to long-term complications like cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and stroke.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Left ventricular hypertrophy, chronic kidney disease, atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack.
Meconium Ileus
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Gastrointestinal Disorders
Sub-category: Neonatal and Infantile Disorders
Symptoms:
failure to pass meconium within the first 24-48 hours after birth; abdominal distension; vomiting (may be bilious); feeding intolerance
Root Cause:
Thickened, inspissated meconium obstructs the ileum, often associated with cystic fibrosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation, abdominal X-rays showing distended bowel loops and a "soap bubble" appearance, contrast enema, and genetic testing for cystic fibrosis.
Treatment:
Initial treatment involves enemas (e.g., hyperosmolar contrast enema); surgical intervention may be needed if enemas fail. Long-term management includes addressing cystic fibrosis.
Medications:
No specific medications for meconium ileus; treatments focus on cystic fibrosis if present, using pancreatic enzyme replacements, mucolytics (e.g., dornase alfa), and antibiotics for infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Seen in approximately 10-20% of infants with cystic fibrosis; rare in the general population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Cystic fibrosis, family history of cystic fibrosis, and genetic predisposition.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely intervention; outcomes depend on the underlying condition (e.g., cystic fibrosis).
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal perforation, peritonitis, volvulus, and long-term bowel dysfunction.
Acute Gastroenteritis
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Gastrointestinal Disorders
Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Disorders
Symptoms:
diarrhea; nausea; vomiting; abdominal cramps; fever; dehydration
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical examination, stool tests (to identify causative pathogen), and sometimes blood tests if dehydration or severe infection is suspected.
Treatment:
Rehydration therapy (oral or IV), dietary adjustments, and in some cases, antimicrobial therapy for bacterial or parasitic infections.
Medications:
Antiemetics (e.g., ondansetron ), antidiarrheals (e.g., loperamide ), antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin for bacterial infections like Campylobacter or Shigella), and antiparasitics (e.g., metronidazole for Giardia).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions globally, especially in children under five, with higher prevalence in low-resource settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor sanitation, contaminated food or water, daycare settings, international travel.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with supportive care; most cases resolve in a few days without complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, malnutrition, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in some bacterial infections.
Hepatitis (A, B, C, Autoimmune)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Gastrointestinal Disorders
Sub-category: Infectious and Autoimmune Disorders
Symptoms:
jaundice; fatigue; abdominal pain; dark urine; light-colored stool; nausea; vomiting
Root Cause:
Liver inflammation caused by viral infections (Hepatitis A, B, C) or immune-mediated attack on liver cells (Autoimmune Hepatitis).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (liver enzymes, viral serology, autoimmune markers), liver ultrasound, and sometimes liver biopsy.
Treatment:
Hepatitis A
Medications:
Antivirals (e.g., tenofovir , entecavir for Hepatitis B; sofosbuvir , ribavirin for Hepatitis C), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone for Autoimmune Hepatitis), and immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hepatitis A and B
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor hygiene (Hepatitis A), unvaccinated status (Hepatitis B), needle sharing (Hepatitis C), genetic predisposition (Autoimmune Hepatitis).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Hepatitis A
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver failure.
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neurological Disorders
Sub-category: Neonatal Neurology
Symptoms:
difficulty breathing; low apgar scores; abnormal muscle tone (floppiness or stiffness); seizures; lethargy; feeding difficulties
Root Cause:
Reduced oxygen or blood flow to the brain around the time of birth, leading to brain injury.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical signs (e.g., low Apgar scores), brain imaging (MRI, cranial ultrasound), EEG to detect seizures, and blood gas analysis (acidosis).
Treatment:
Therapeutic hypothermia (cooling therapy), supportive care (ventilation, fluids), seizure control, and monitoring for long-term complications.
Medications:
Phenobarbital (anticonvulsant to treat seizures), midazolam (sedative/anticonvulsant), dopamine or dobutamine (vasopressors to support blood pressure), and medications to control metabolic disturbances (e.g., sodium bicarbonate for acidosis).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-3 per 1,000 live births in high-resource settings, with higher prevalence in low-resource settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged labor, umbilical cord complications (prolapse or compression), placental abruption, severe maternal hypotension, or infection.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on severity; mild cases may recover fully, while moderate-to-severe cases risk long-term complications such as cerebral palsy, developmental delays, or epilepsy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cerebral palsy, developmental delays, epilepsy, vision and hearing impairments, and learning disabilities.
Neonatal seizures
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neurological Disorders
Sub-category: Neonatal Neurology
Symptoms:
abnormal movements (jerking, rhythmic twitching); staring spells; apnea (pauses in breathing); lip smacking; sudden muscle stiffness or floppiness; unexplained changes in heart rate or blood pressure
Root Cause:
Electrical dysfunction in the brain due to underlying causes such as hypoxia, infection, metabolic imbalances, or structural brain abnormalities.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
EEG to detect abnormal brain activity, neuroimaging (MRI or cranial ultrasound), and metabolic and infectious workup (e.g., blood, cerebrospinal fluid tests).
Treatment:
Treat the underlying cause (e.g., infection, metabolic imbalance) and use anticonvulsant medications for seizure control.
Medications:
Phenobarbital (first-line anticonvulsant), levetiracetam (anticonvulsant), fosphenytoin or phenytoin (anticonvulsants), and midazolam (used for refractory seizures).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 1-3 per 1,000 live births, more common in preterm infants.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, hypoxia-ischemia, infections (e.g., meningitis, sepsis), intracranial hemorrhage, metabolic disturbances (e.g., hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the underlying cause and severity; some infants recover fully, while others may develop epilepsy, cerebral palsy, or cognitive impairments.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Long-term epilepsy, developmental delays, cerebral palsy, and learning disabilities.
Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neurological Disorders
Sub-category: Neonatal Neurology
Symptoms:
difficulty with movement or coordination; muscle stiffness (spasticity); delayed milestones; vision or hearing impairments; seizures (in severe cases)
Root Cause:
White matter brain injury due to insufficient blood flow or oxygen, typically in premature infants.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Cranial ultrasound (routine screening in preterm infants), MRI for detailed imaging of white matter damage.
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment for PVL; management focuses on supportive care, physical and occupational therapy, and treating associated conditions such as spasticity or seizures.
Medications:
Baclofen (muscle relaxant for spasticity), diazepam (muscle relaxant), anticonvulsants such as levetiracetam or phenobarbital (for seizures).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 4-26% of very preterm infants (born before 32 weeks gestation).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, low birth weight, infection or inflammation during pregnancy, hypoxia-ischemia, and maternal conditions such as preeclampsia or chorioamnionitis.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on severity; mild cases may have minimal effects, while severe cases can lead to cerebral palsy, developmental delays, or intellectual disabilities.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cerebral palsy, epilepsy, developmental delays, and cognitive or behavioral challenges.
Epilepsy
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neurological Disorders
Sub-category: Pediatric Neurology
Symptoms:
seizures (focal or generalized); temporary confusion; staring spells; uncontrollable jerking movements; loss of consciousness or awareness; emotional or cognitive disturbances before or after a seizure
Root Cause:
Abnormal electrical activity in the brain caused by genetic factors, brain injury, infections, or structural abnormalities.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, medical history, neurological examination, electroencephalogram (EEG), and brain imaging (MRI or CT scan).
Treatment:
Treatment focuses on controlling seizures with anti-seizure medications, dietary therapies (e.g., ketogenic diet), vagus nerve stimulation, or, in some cases, surgery to remove seizure-triggering areas.
Medications:
Anti-seizure medications include carbamazepine (a sodium channel blocker), valproic acid (a broad-spectrum anticonvulsant), and levetiracetam (a calcium channel modulator).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1% of children globally, with most cases diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of epilepsy, prenatal or perinatal brain injury, neurodevelopmental disorders, infections, and brain tumors.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, 70-80% of children achieve seizure control. Some may outgrow the condition, while others may require lifelong management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include status epilepticus (prolonged seizures), injuries from seizures, and social or developmental delays due to recurrent seizures.
Cerebral Palsy
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neurological Disorders
Sub-category: Pediatric Neurology
Symptoms:
motor impairment; spasticity; difficulty walking; poor coordination; speech or swallowing difficulties; seizures; cognitive impairments in some cases
Root Cause:
Non-progressive brain injury or malformation occurring during fetal development, birth, or early infancy, often due to oxygen deprivation, infection, or trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical observation, motor function assessment, brain imaging (MRI, CT), and developmental evaluations.
Treatment:
Treatment includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, assistive devices, orthopedic surgery, and medications to reduce spasticity.
Medications:
Common medications include baclofen (muscle relaxant), botulinum toxin (muscle spasticity control), and diazepam (anti-spasticity and anxiolytic agent).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1-4 per 1,000 live births worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, low birth weight, maternal infections, difficult labor, and neonatal jaundice.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Non-progressive but varies widely; early intervention and therapy can significantly improve quality of life and functional abilities.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Joint contractures, scoliosis, difficulty with daily activities, communication challenges, and epilepsy.
Muscular Dystrophy
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Neurological Disorders
Sub-category: Pediatric Neurology
Symptoms:
progressive muscle weakness; difficulty walking; frequent falls; trouble climbing stairs; enlarged calf muscles; respiratory or cardiac issues in advanced stages
Root Cause:
Genetic mutations leading to abnormal or missing dystrophin protein, essential for muscle function and integrity.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves genetic testing, muscle biopsy, creatine kinase (CK) blood levels, and electromyography (EMG).
Treatment:
Treatment includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, respiratory support, corticosteroids, and experimental gene therapies.
Medications:
Corticosteroids like prednisone or deflazacort are used to slow muscle degeneration. Emerging therapies like eteplirsen target specific genetic mutations.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) affects 1 in 5,000 male births; other forms vary in prevalence.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of muscular dystrophy and carrier status for genetic mutations.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive; severity depends on the type of muscular dystrophy. Early treatment can delay complications and improve quality of life.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, cardiomyopathy, scoliosis, and loss of mobility.
Hyperthyroidism (e.g., Graves’ disease)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Endocrine Disorders
Sub-category: Thyroid Disorders
Symptoms:
weight loss despite normal or increased appetite; rapid heartbeat (tachycardia); heat intolerance; tremors; irritability; exophthalmos (protrusion of the eyes); goiter; sweating; diarrhea; sleep disturbances; fatigue
Root Cause:
Overproduction of thyroid hormones due to autoimmune stimulation of the thyroid gland by thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSIs).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed by low TSH, elevated T4/T3 levels, and thyroid receptor antibodies.
Treatment:
Treated with antithyroid medications (e.g., methimazole), radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery, with beta-blockers to control symptoms.
Medications:
Antithyroid medications - Methimazole (first-line treatment) and propylthiouracil (used in certain cases, such as during the first trimester of pregnancy). Beta-blockers - Propranolol or atenolol to control symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and tremors.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in children; more common in adolescent females. Estimated prevalence is about 1 in 10,000 children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female sex, family history of autoimmune thyroid disease, other autoimmune conditions, exposure to iodine excess or deficiency.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; remission is possible with antithyroid medication, but relapses can occur. Severe or untreated cases may lead to thyroid storm, a life-threatening complication.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Thyroid storm, heart problems (e.g., arrhythmias, cardiomyopathy), osteoporosis, vision problems, or permanent eye damage in severe exophthalmos.
Adrenal insufficiency (e.g., Addison’s disease)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Endocrine Disorders
Sub-category: Other Endocrine Issues
Symptoms:
fatigue; weight loss; low blood pressure; hyperpigmentation of the skin; abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; salt cravings; hypoglycemia
Root Cause:
Insufficient production of cortisol and/or aldosterone by the adrenal glands, often due to autoimmune destruction, infection, or adrenal gland damage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests measuring cortisol and ACTH levels, ACTH stimulation test, electrolyte panels, and imaging studies (e.g., CT or MRI of the adrenal glands).
Treatment:
Hormone replacement therapy, including glucocorticoids (e.g., hydrocortisone) and mineralocorticoids (e.g., fludrocortisone), along with lifestyle adjustments and emergency injectable hydrocortisone for adrenal crises.
Medications:
Hydrocortisone or prednisone (glucocorticoids) replace cortisol; fludrocortisone (a mineralocorticoid) replaces aldosterone. Glucocorticoids are corticosteroids, while fludrocortisone is a mineralocorticoid.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, affecting approximately 1 in 10,000 to 20,000 people globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune conditions (e.g., autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome), family history, infections (e.g., tuberculosis), adrenal gland damage due to trauma or surgery.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, patients can lead normal lives; however, untreated adrenal insufficiency can be life-threatening.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Adrenal crisis (acute life-threatening condition), electrolyte imbalances, hypoglycemia, and increased susceptibility to stress-related illnesses.
Precocious puberty
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Endocrine Disorders
Sub-category: Puberty Disorders
Symptoms:
early breast development in girls; early testicular and penile enlargement in boys; rapid growth; early appearance of pubic or underarm hair; acne; body odor
Root Cause:
Early activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis or peripheral causes such as hormone-secreting tumors or exogenous hormone exposure.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, bone age X-ray, hormone level tests (LH, FSH, estradiol, testosterone), GnRH stimulation test, and imaging studies (e.g., MRI or ultrasound) to identify underlying causes.
Treatment:
Treat the underlying cause; GnRH analogs (e.g., leuprolide) are commonly used to delay further puberty progression.
Medications:
Leuprolide or triptorelin (GnRH analogs) suppress the premature activation of the HPG axis. These are classified as gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 1 in 5,000–10,000 children; more common in girls than boys.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender, obesity, family history of precocious puberty, brain abnormalities (e.g., tumors, trauma, infections), or exposure to sex hormones.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatment can halt or reverse early pubertal changes, allowing for normal growth and development; untreated, it may lead to short stature and psychosocial challenges.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Short adult height due to early closure of growth plates, psychological distress, and social challenges due to premature physical development.
Delayed puberty
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Endocrine Disorders
Sub-category: Puberty Disorders
Symptoms:
lack of breast development in girls by age 13; lack of testicular enlargement in boys by age 14; short stature; delayed or absent pubic hair; absence of menstruation in girls by age 16
Root Cause:
Delay in the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, often due to constitutional growth delay, chronic illness, or hormonal deficiencies (e.g., hypogonadism).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Detailed history, physical exam, bone age X-ray, blood tests (LH, FSH, testosterone, estradiol), and imaging studies (e.g., MRI of the brain or pelvic ultrasound).
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the cause; may include hormone replacement therapy (e.g., testosterone or estrogen) or addressing underlying health conditions.
Medications:
Testosterone injections or patches for boys, and low-dose estrogen therapy (e.g., estradiol patches or oral contraceptives) for girls. Testosterone and estradiol are classified as sex hormones.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 2% of adolescents; more common in boys.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of delayed puberty, chronic illness (e.g., cystic fibrosis, celiac disease), malnutrition, or hormonal disorders (e.g., Kallmann syndrome).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Constitutional growth delay typically resolves without treatment; other causes may require intervention but have a good prognosis if treated appropriately.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Psychosocial challenges, low bone density, and potential infertility if untreated hormonal deficiencies persist.
Iron-deficiency anemia
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Disorders
Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders
Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; pale skin; shortness of breath; cold hands and feet; brittle nails; cravings for non-nutritive substances (pica); dizziness; headaches
Root Cause:
Caused by insufficient iron levels in the body, leading to reduced hemoglobin production and decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC) showing low hemoglobin and hematocrit; low serum ferritin and iron levels; increased total iron-binding capacity (TIBC); peripheral blood smear showing microcytic, hypochromic red blood cells.
Treatment:
Iron supplementation (oral or intravenous), dietary changes to include iron-rich foods (e.g., red meat, leafy greens, fortified cereals), and treating the underlying cause of iron loss (e.g., bleeding, malabsorption).
Medications:
Oral iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, or ferrous fumarate, are the first-line treatment. Intravenous iron formulations, such as ferric carboxymaltose or iron sucrose, may be used in cases of severe deficiency or malabsorption.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 20–25% of children worldwide; more common in developing countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, inadequate dietary iron intake, rapid growth during childhood, chronic blood loss (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding), malabsorption disorders (e.g., celiac disease).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate treatment; symptoms typically resolve within weeks, and hemoglobin levels normalize in a few months. Untreated cases can result in developmental delays, cognitive impairment, and heart complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Developmental delays, cognitive and behavioral issues, weakened immune system, and heart problems like tachycardia and heart failure in severe, prolonged cases.
Sickle Cell Disease
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Disorders
Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders
Symptoms:
episodes of pain (vaso-occlusive crisis); fatigue; swelling in hands and feet; frequent infections; delayed growth and puberty; yellowish skin or eyes (jaundice); shortness of breath
Root Cause:
Caused by a genetic mutation leading to abnormal hemoglobin (HbS), which results in red blood cells that are rigid and shaped like a crescent (sickle), leading to blockages in blood flow and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Newborn screening with hemoglobin electrophoresis; confirmatory testing includes Hb electrophoresis or DNA analysis; CBC may show anemia; peripheral blood smear reveals sickle-shaped cells.
Treatment:
Pain management, blood transfusions, hydroxyurea (to increase fetal hemoglobin), and bone marrow transplant in severe cases. Preventative care includes vaccination, prophylactic antibiotics (e.g., penicillin), and folic acid supplementation.
Medications:
Hydroxyurea (antimetabolite) reduces the frequency of sickle cell crises and increases fetal hemoglobin. Pain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, opioids) are used during crises. Prophylactic penicillin is given to prevent infections in children.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 365 African-American births in the U.S.; globally, more common in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and India.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Having two copies of the sickle cell gene (autosomal recessive inheritance); family history of the condition.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and lifelong condition; life expectancy has improved with advances in treatment, but complications can reduce quality of life.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, acute chest syndrome, infections, organ damage, leg ulcers, gallstones, and severe anemia.
Thalassemia
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Disorders
Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders
Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; pale or yellowish skin; slow growth; bone deformities (especially in the face); dark urine; shortness of breath
Root Cause:
Caused by genetic mutations leading to reduced or absent production of hemoglobin chains (alpha or beta), resulting in ineffective red blood cell production and anemia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
CBC showing microcytic, hypochromic anemia; hemoglobin electrophoresis to detect abnormal hemoglobin; DNA analysis for genetic confirmation.
Treatment:
Blood transfusions (for moderate to severe cases), iron chelation therapy to prevent iron overload, folic acid supplements, and bone marrow transplantation in select cases.
Medications:
Deferoxamine , deferasirox , or deferiprone (iron chelators) are used to prevent iron overload due to frequent transfusions. Folic acid supplements support red blood cell production.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
High prevalence in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African populations; approximately 5% of the global population carries thalassemia genes.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Inheritance of one or two defective hemoglobin genes; more severe forms (e.g., beta-thalassemia major) occur with two defective copies.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable depending on the severity; individuals with mild forms (trait or minor) lead normal lives, while severe forms require lifelong treatment. Bone marrow transplantation can be curative.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Iron overload (from transfusions), organ damage (heart, liver, endocrine system), infections, and bone deformities.
Hemophilia
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Disorders
Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders
Symptoms:
prolonged bleeding; spontaneous bleeding into joints (hemarthrosis); easy bruising; excessive bleeding after injury or surgery; blood in urine or stool
Root Cause:
Genetic deficiency of clotting factors (commonly Factor VIII in Hemophilia A or Factor IX in Hemophilia B) leading to impaired blood clotting.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) test; specific assays for clotting factor levels confirm the diagnosis. Genetic testing identifies mutations.
Treatment:
Replacement therapy with recombinant or plasma-derived clotting factor concentrates; desmopressin (for mild Hemophilia A); antifibrinolytics like tranexamic acid; physical therapy for joint health.
Medications:
Recombinant Factor VIII or IX products for prophylaxis and treatment of bleeding episodes; desmopressin (a synthetic vasopressin analog) for mild Hemophilia A.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hemophilia A occurs in 1 in 5,000 male births; Hemophilia B is less common, occurring in 1 in 25,000 male births.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of the condition (X-linked recessive inheritance).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Lifelong condition; modern treatments significantly improve quality of life, though severe cases can lead to joint damage and other complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Joint damage (hemophilic arthropathy), intracranial hemorrhage, infections from blood products (rare with modern treatments), and inhibitor development against clotting factors.
Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Disorders
Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders
Symptoms:
easy or excessive bruising; petechiae (tiny red spots on the skin); prolonged bleeding; spontaneous nosebleeds; bleeding gums; blood in urine or stool; heavy menstrual bleeding in adolescents
Root Cause:
Autoimmune destruction of platelets, resulting in thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) and increased bleeding risk. The exact cause is unknown but often follows a viral infection.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
CBC showing low platelet count; exclusion of other causes (e.g., bone marrow biopsy if needed); peripheral smear excludes platelet clumping or abnormalities.
Treatment:
Observation for mild cases; corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) for initial treatment; intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) or anti-D immunoglobulin for rapid platelet increase; splenectomy or rituximab for refractory cases.
Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ), IVIG, anti-D immunoglobulin, and thrombopoietin receptor agonists (e.g., eltrombopag , romiplostim ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 10,000 children per year; more common in children aged 2–7 years.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent viral infections, autoimmune conditions, and vaccinations (rarely).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent in most pediatric cases; ITP often resolves spontaneously within 6 months in children. Chronic ITP occurs in less than 20% of cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe bleeding (rare), chronic ITP, and side effects of treatment (e.g., immunosuppression).
Leukemia (e.g., Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia [ALL], Acute Myeloid Leukemia [AML])
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Disorders
Sub-category: Oncologic Conditions
Symptoms:
fatigue; pallor; easy bruising or bleeding; frequent infections; bone or joint pain; fever; swollen lymph nodes; unexplained weight loss
Root Cause:
Abnormal proliferation of immature white blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to suppression of normal blood cell production.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (complete blood count, peripheral smear), bone marrow biopsy, cytogenetic analysis, flow cytometry, lumbar puncture (to assess central nervous system involvement).
Treatment:
Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy (in specific cases), stem cell transplant (for high-risk or relapsed cases).
Medications:
Commonly prescribed medications include chemotherapy agents such as vincristine (microtubule inhibitor), methotrexate (antimetabolite), cytarabine (antimetabolite), and daunorubicin (anthracycline). Targeted therapies, like tyrosine kinase inhibitors (e.g., imatinib for Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL), may also be used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood cancer, accounting for about 25-30% of pediatric cancers. AML is less common but still significant in children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of leukemia, genetic disorders (e.g., Down syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome), prior exposure to radiation or chemotherapy, and certain environmental exposures.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies by subtype; 5-year survival rates for ALL exceed 85% in children with appropriate treatment, whereas survival for AML is lower but improving with advancements in therapy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include anemia, infections, bleeding disorders, relapse, and late effects of chemotherapy (e.g., cardiotoxicity, neurocognitive decline, secondary malignancies).
Wilms' Tumor (Nephroblastoma)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Disorders
Sub-category: Oncologic Conditions
Symptoms:
abdominal mass or swelling; abdominal pain; blood in the urine (hematuria); fever; nausea; loss of appetite; high blood pressure
Root Cause:
Malignant tumor originating from embryonal kidney cells, typically affecting one kidney but occasionally bilateral.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI), biopsy or surgical removal of the tumor for histopathological examination, and blood/urine tests.
Treatment:
Surgery (nephrectomy), chemotherapy, and in some cases, radiation therapy.
Medications:
Chemotherapy agents include actinomycin D (antitumor antibiotic), vincristine (microtubule inhibitor), and doxorubicin (anthracycline).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 1 in 10,000 children, most commonly diagnosed in children aged 3 to 4 years.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic syndromes (e.g., WAGR syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, Denys-Drash syndrome), family history of Wilms' tumor, and certain congenital abnormalities.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable in most cases; 5-year survival rates exceed 90% with prompt and appropriate treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include metastasis (commonly to the lungs), kidney dysfunction, recurrence, and long-term effects of chemotherapy or radiation.
Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Disorders
Sub-category: Oncologic Conditions
Symptoms:
painless swelling of lymph nodes; fever; night sweats; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; itchy skin; abdominal pain or swelling (in non-hodgkin lymphoma); cough or difficulty breathing (in cases affecting the chest)
Root Cause:
Malignant transformation of lymphocytes; Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by Reed-Sternberg cells, whereas non-Hodgkin lymphoma involves a broader range of lymphocyte subtypes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lymph node biopsy, imaging (CT, PET scans), bone marrow biopsy, and blood tests.
Treatment:
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy (e.g., rituximab for CD20-positive lymphomas), and stem cell transplantation for refractory cases.
Medications:
Chemotherapy regimens include agents such as doxorubicin (anthracycline), bleomycin (antitumor antibiotic), vinblastine (microtubule inhibitor), and dacarbazine (alkylating agent) for Hodgkin lymphoma, and combinations like cyclophosphamide , prednisone , vincristine , and doxorubicin (CHOP) for non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hodgkin lymphoma accounts for about 6% of childhood cancers, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma represents 5-7%. Both are more common in adolescents than younger children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, immunosuppression, Epstein-Barr virus infection (in Hodgkin lymphoma), and certain genetic conditions (e.g., Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, ataxia-telangiectasia).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma, with 5-year survival rates exceeding 90%. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma prognosis depends on subtype and stage, with survival rates ranging from 70-90%.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include secondary malignancies, organ toxicity (from chemotherapy or radiation), infections, and relapse.
Strep Throat
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Common Pediatric Infections
Symptoms:
sore throat; painful swallowing; fever; swollen tonsils; white patches or streaks on the tonsils; swollen lymph nodes; headache; nausea or vomiting (in children)
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Rapid antigen detection test (RADT); throat culture for confirmation.
Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy to reduce symptoms and prevent complications, along with supportive care for symptom relief.
Medications:
Penicillin or amoxicillin (beta-lactam antibiotics) are the first-line treatments. In penicillin-allergic individuals, macrolides (e.g., azithromycin ) or cephalosporins may be prescribed.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in school-aged children; peaks during late fall and early spring.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, crowded environments (e.g., schools), young age (5–15 years).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment; symptoms typically resolve within 3–5 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rheumatic fever, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, peritonsillar abscess, or scarlet fever.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Viral Infections
Symptoms:
fever; painful sores in the mouth; rash with blisters on the hands, feet, and buttocks; loss of appetite; irritability in infants; sore throat
Root Cause:
Viral infection commonly caused by coxsackievirus A16 or enterovirus 71.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical diagnosis based on characteristic rash and oral ulcers; PCR testing in atypical cases.
Treatment:
Supportive care, including hydration and pain relief.
Medications:
No specific antiviral treatment; symptomatic management with acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain. Topical anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine ) can be used for mouth sores.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children under 5 years; outbreaks occur worldwide, especially in daycare settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Young age, close contact with infected individuals, poor hygiene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; most children recover fully within 7–10 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare complications include viral meningitis, encephalitis, or dehydration due to difficulty swallowing.
Down syndrome
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Genetic and Rare Disorders
Sub-category: Chromosomal Disorders
Symptoms:
intellectual disability; delayed physical growth; characteristic facial features (e.g., flattened face, almond-shaped eyes); hypotonia (low muscle tone); short stature; congenital heart defects; hearing loss; speech delay
Root Cause:
Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, leading to developmental and intellectual delays.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through prenatal testing (e.g., amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling) or postnatal chromosomal analysis (karyotype testing).
Treatment:
There is no cure for Down syndrome, but treatments include early interventions (e.g., speech, physical, and occupational therapy), educational support, and medical treatment for associated conditions (e.g., heart surgery, hearing aids).
Medications:
Medications are typically used to manage associated conditions. For example, if a child has hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone replacement (e.g., levothyroxine ) may be prescribed. Other medications may include anti-seizure drugs if epilepsy is present.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Down syndrome occurs in approximately 1 in 700 live births worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Maternal age (older mothers have a higher risk), family history, genetic mutations.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Individuals with Down syndrome typically live into their 60s or longer with proper care, but may face intellectual and developmental challenges. Early intervention improves long-term outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of heart defects, respiratory problems, digestive issues, hearing and vision problems, thyroid disorders, leukemia, and Alzheimer’s disease in older adults.
Turner syndrome
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Genetic and Rare Disorders
Sub-category: Chromosomal Disorders
Symptoms:
short stature; ovarian dysfunction leading to infertility; webbed neck; lymphedema (swelling of hands and feet); heart defects; skeletal abnormalities; learning difficulties
Root Cause:
Turner syndrome occurs when one of the X chromosomes is missing or partially missing in females, leading to various developmental and physical issues.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through karyotype analysis, which reveals the presence of a missing or incomplete X chromosome.
Treatment:
Growth hormone therapy (to increase height), estrogen therapy (to induce puberty and maintain secondary sexual characteristics), and medical management for heart defects and kidney problems.
Medications:
Growth hormone (somatropin ) to increase height during childhood, estrogen therapy to induce puberty, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for adults to manage menopausal symptoms and prevent osteoporosis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 2,500 live female births.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
The condition is not inherited and occurs randomly due to chromosomal abnormalities during cell division.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, individuals can lead relatively normal lives, though they may face infertility, short stature, and some learning challenges.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of heart defects (especially aortic dissection), kidney problems, osteoporosis, and hearing loss.
Klinefelter syndrome
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Genetic and Rare Disorders
Sub-category: Chromosomal Disorders
Symptoms:
tall stature; reduced muscle tone; infertility; gynecomastia (enlarged breasts in males); language and learning difficulties; social and emotional challenges; small testes
Root Cause:
Klinefelter syndrome occurs when males have an extra X chromosome (XXY), leading to physical and developmental challenges.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through karyotype analysis or genetic testing, which reveals the presence of an extra X chromosome.
Treatment:
Testosterone replacement therapy to address low testosterone levels and promote development of male secondary sexual characteristics, speech and physical therapy, and fertility treatment options for those seeking to have children.
Medications:
Testosterone replacement therapy (e.g., testosterone enanthate , testosterone cypionate ) to address low levels of testosterone . Other medications may be used to manage associated conditions like osteoporosis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 600 male births.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Most cases occur randomly due to errors in sperm or egg cell division.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment (e.g., testosterone therapy), individuals can lead productive lives. However, infertility and learning difficulties may persist.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of osteoporosis, breast cancer, autoimmune disorders, and metabolic syndrome.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Genetic and Rare Disorders
Sub-category: Rare Genetic Disorders
Symptoms:
progressive muscle weakness; difficulty walking; frequent falls; muscle cramps; waddling gait; enlarged calves; difficulty with motor skills (such as climbing stairs); respiratory issues; heart problems
Root Cause:
Caused by mutations in the DMD gene, leading to a deficiency of dystrophin, a protein essential for muscle function.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through genetic testing (looking for mutations in the DMD gene), muscle biopsy, serum creatine kinase (CK) levels, and electromyography (EMG).
Treatment:
No cure, but treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Physical therapy, corticosteroids (such as prednisone), heart medications (for cardiomyopathy), respiratory support, and surgical interventions to address contractures.
Medications:
Prednisone (a corticosteroid used to slow muscle degeneration), Deflazacort (another corticosteroid), and various heart medications such as ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers for heart complications. These are classified as corticosteroids and cardiology medications.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 3,500 to 5,000 live male births worldwide. It is an X-linked disorder, so it predominantly affects males.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, mutations in the DMD gene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Life expectancy has increased with improved care, but most individuals will experience loss of ambulation by adolescence and face significant respiratory and cardiac issues by their 20s or 30s.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progressive muscle weakness, scoliosis, joint contractures, respiratory failure, cardiac complications (such as cardiomyopathy), and reduced life expectancy.
Williams Syndrome
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Genetic and Rare Disorders
Sub-category: Rare Genetic Disorders
Symptoms:
distinctive facial features (such as a broad forehead, full cheeks, and a wide mouth); cardiovascular problems (especially supravalvular aortic stenosis); developmental delays; learning disabilities; hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels); social personality (extremely outgoing and friendly); anxiety disorders; poor coordination and motor skills
Root Cause:
Caused by a deletion of genetic material on chromosome 7, including the elastin gene, which leads to the cardiovascular issues and other symptoms.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed via genetic testing (FISH analysis) to detect the chromosome 7 deletion.
Treatment:
Management focuses on addressing the cardiovascular issues (e.g., surgery or monitoring for aortic stenosis), developmental and speech therapy, and interventions for anxiety or other behavioral issues.
Medications:
No specific medications for the condition itself, but medications such as beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors may be prescribed for cardiovascular issues. Anti-anxiety medications (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) may also be used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 7,500 to 20,000 live births.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Williams syndrome is typically caused by a spontaneous genetic mutation (deletion on chromosome 7) and is not usually inherited.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Individuals often live into adulthood with appropriate medical management, particularly for cardiovascular health. They tend to have a distinctive, socially engaging personality, but cognitive and developmental delays are common.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular issues (such as aortic stenosis, hypertension), learning disabilities, anxiety, hypercalcemia, and motor difficulties. Cardiovascular complications are the leading cause of early mortality in individuals with Williams syndrome.
Measles
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Vaccination-Preventable Diseases
Symptoms:
high fever; cough; runny nose; red, watery eyes; white spots inside the mouth (koplik spots); red blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads downward
Root Cause:
Caused by the measles virus (a single-stranded RNA virus in the paramyxovirus family); spreads through respiratory droplets and is highly contagious.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of symptoms (fever, rash, Koplik spots) and confirmed through laboratory tests like measles-specific IgM antibodies or reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Treatment:
Supportive care to manage symptoms, including hydration, fever control, and vitamin A supplementation to reduce the severity of complications.
Medications:
No antiviral medications for measles. Supportive treatment includes antipyretics (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen ) for fever, and vitamin A supplementation to prevent severe complications in children.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions globally, particularly in regions with low vaccination coverage. In 2022, over 9 million cases and 128,000 deaths were reported worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, international travel to regions with outbreaks, immunosuppression, and malnutrition (especially vitamin A deficiency).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent with proper supportive care, but complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, or death can occur, especially in children under 5 or individuals with weakened immunity.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
pneumonia; encephalitis; otitis media; diarrhea; subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE)
Rubella (German Measles)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Vaccination-Preventable Diseases
Symptoms:
low-grade fever; rash that starts on the face and spreads downward; swollen lymph nodes (especially behind the ears); joint pain; mild cold-like symptoms
Root Cause:
Caused by the rubella virus (a single-stranded RNA virus in the Togaviridae family); spreads via respiratory droplets and can lead to severe complications during pregnancy (congenital rubella syndrome).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation and confirmed through serology (rubella-specific IgM and IgG antibodies) or RT-PCR testing.
Treatment:
No specific antiviral treatment; care focuses on symptom management.
Medications:
Symptomatic treatment includes antipyretics (e.g., acetaminophen ) and analgesics for fever and joint pain.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in countries with widespread vaccination but remains a concern in regions with low vaccination coverage.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, pregnancy (risk to the fetus), and exposure to infected individuals.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for most individuals, but congenital rubella syndrome can result in severe birth defects or fetal death if the mother is infected during pregnancy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
congenital rubella syndrome (birth defects); arthritis; encephalitis; thrombocytopenia
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Vaccination-Preventable Diseases
Symptoms:
severe coughing fits; whooping sound during inhalation; vomiting after coughing; exhaustion after coughing fits; runny nose; low-grade fever
Root Cause:
Caused by Bordetella pertussis (a gram-negative bacterium); highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical symptoms and confirmed with nasopharyngeal swab (culture or PCR) or serology.
Treatment:
Early antibiotic treatment (macrolides) to reduce severity and prevent transmission; supportive care includes hydration and oxygen if needed.
Medications:
Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin , clarithromycin , erythromycin ) are prescribed to treat the infection and limit spread.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Remains common worldwide, with periodic outbreaks even in vaccinated populations due to waning immunity.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, waning immunity over time, close contact with infected individuals, and young age (infants are most at risk).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment, but severe complications can occur in infants.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
pneumonia; seizures; brain damage (encephalopathy); death in infants; rib fractures from severe coughing
Polio (Poliomyelitis)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Vaccination-Preventable Diseases
Symptoms:
fever; fatigue; headache; stiff neck; limb pain; paralysis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Caused by the poliovirus (a single-stranded RNA virus in the Picornaviridae family); spreads through fecal-oral transmission or respiratory droplets.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Confirmed by detecting the virus in stool or throat samples using PCR, or serology for poliovirus-specific antibodies.
Treatment:
No cure; treatment focuses on supportive care, including physical therapy and assistive devices for paralysis.
Medications:
No antiviral drugs for polio; pain relief can include analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Eradicated in many countries due to vaccination but still present in some regions (e.g., Afghanistan and Pakistan).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, poor sanitation, and travel to areas with active transmission.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for non-paralytic cases, but paralysis can result in lifelong disability or death if respiratory muscles are affected.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
paralysis; post-polio syndrome (late complications); respiratory failure; death
Food allergies
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Immunologic and Rheumatologic Disorders
Sub-category: Allergic Disorders
Symptoms:
hives; swelling of lips, face, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; vomiting; diarrhea; abdominal pain; anaphylaxis (severe, life-threatening allergic reaction)
Root Cause:
The immune system mistakenly identifies certain proteins in food as harmful and releases chemicals like histamine to protect the body, triggering an allergic reaction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves a detailed medical history, skin prick tests, blood tests for allergen-specific IgE antibodies, and food challenge tests under medical supervision.
Treatment:
The main treatment is avoiding the allergenic food. In case of accidental exposure, antihistamines can be used for mild reactions, while epinephrine (adrenaline) is prescribed for severe reactions or anaphylaxis.
Medications:
Common medications include antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine , loratadine , which are antihistamines used to reduce allergic reactions) and epinephrine (e.g., epinephrine auto-injectors like EpiPen or Auvi-Q for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis). Antihistamines are classified as H1 receptor antagonists, and epinephrine is a sympathomimetic drug.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Food allergies affect about 8% of children, with some studies showing a growing trend in allergic reactions, especially to peanuts, eggs, milk, and shellfish.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, other allergic conditions (e.g., eczema or allergic rhinitis), early exposure to allergens, and living in urban areas with less exposure to diverse environmental microbes.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Many children outgrow food allergies as they age, though some food allergies (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish) tend to persist into adulthood.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, which can be fatal if untreated, chronic allergic reactions leading to eczema or other skin conditions, and the psychological impact of living with food restrictions.
Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Immunologic and Rheumatologic Disorders
Sub-category: Allergic Disorders
Symptoms:
itchy, red, inflamed skin; dry, scaly patches of skin; rash that worsens with scratching; rash on the face, arms, legs, or other areas
Root Cause:
A chronic inflammatory skin condition where the immune system overreacts to environmental triggers, resulting in skin inflammation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination and medical history. Skin biopsy (rarely, to rule out other conditions).
Treatment:
Moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated. Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Antihistamines for itching. Avoidance of irritants and allergens.
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone , betamethasone ) – These are anti-inflammatory drugs used to treat flare-ups. They are classified as corticosteroids, a type of immunosuppressive agent. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus , pimecrolimus ) – Immunomodulators used to reduce inflammation, classified as calcineurin inhibitors. Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine , loratadine ) – Used to relieve itching; they are classified as H1-antagonists (antihistamines).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 10-20% of children worldwide. Commonly starts in infancy and can continue into childhood or adulthood.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of atopy (allergic conditions such as asthma, hay fever). Dry skin or living in dry environments. Exposure to allergens or irritants.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Many children experience improvement with age, but eczema may persist or flare periodically throughout life. Chronic cases may lead to thickened skin or secondary bacterial infections.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Skin infections (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus). Sleep disturbances due to itching. Emotional and social issues related to visible skin rashes.
Allergic rhinitis
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Immunologic and Rheumatologic Disorders
Sub-category: Allergic Disorders
Symptoms:
sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion; itchy eyes, nose, and throat; post-nasal drip, coughing; watery, red, or swollen eyes
Root Cause:
The immune system reacts to airborne allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, pet dander) by producing IgE antibodies, triggering inflammation in the nasal passages.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history and physical examination. Skin prick test or blood test (measuring IgE levels) to identify specific allergens.
Treatment:
Avoidance of allergens. Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone). Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine). Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine) for short-term relief.
Medications:
Intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone , mometasone ) – Anti-inflammatory medications, classified as corticosteroids, used to treat nasal inflammation. Oral antihistamines (e.g., loratadine , fexofenadine ) – Used to block histamine and reduce symptoms like sneezing and itching. Classified as H1-antagonists. Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine ) – Used to relieve nasal congestion; classified as sympathomimetic agents.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-30% of children, with prevalence rising in urban environments.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergic rhinitis or other allergic conditions. Exposure to allergens, particularly in early childhood. Living in areas with high pollen or pollution levels.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Can be well-managed with medication and allergen avoidance. Symptoms may improve with age, but seasonal or perennial allergies can persist.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sinusitis (inflammation or infection of the sinuses). Middle ear infections (otitis media). Impaired sleep and quality of life due to nasal congestion.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Immunologic and Rheumatologic Disorders
Sub-category: Autoimmune Disorders
Symptoms:
butterfly-shaped rash on the face; joint pain; fever; fatigue; photosensitivity; hair loss; mouth sores; kidney problems; chest pain
Root Cause:
SLE is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, including skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical signs, laboratory tests (e.g., ANA, anti-dsDNA, anti-Smith), and organ-specific testing (e.g., urinalysis for kidney involvement).
Treatment:
Treatment typically includes corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., hydroxychloroquine, azathioprine), and biologic agents like belimumab.
Medications:
Medications may include hydroxychloroquine (an antimalarial that modulates immune function), corticosteroids (such as prednisone ), and immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., cyclophosphamide , azathioprine ) to control inflammation and prevent flare-ups.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
SLE is rare in children, affecting approximately 0.1-0.3 per 100,000 children annually, and is more common in females, particularly in adolescence.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition (e.g., certain HLA types), environmental factors (e.g., sun exposure), hormonal influences (e.g., more common in females).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With modern treatments, many children can live normal or near-normal lives, though the disease may still cause organ damage, especially kidney involvement.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney failure (lupus nephritis), cardiovascular problems, infections due to immunosuppressive therapy, and increased risk of blood clots.
Vasculitis (e.g., Henoch-Schönlein Purpura)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Immunologic and Rheumatologic Disorders
Sub-category: Autoimmune Disorders
Symptoms:
purple spots on the skin (purpura); abdominal pain; joint pain; kidney involvement (hematuria); vomiting; diarrhea
Root Cause:
Vasculitis in Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks small blood vessels, leading to inflammation and leakage of blood into the skin and other organs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation (rash, joint pain, abdominal symptoms) and laboratory tests (e.g., urine analysis for kidney involvement, elevated ESR/CRP).
Treatment:
Treatment is typically supportive, including NSAIDs for joint pain and corticosteroids for more severe cases or to prevent kidney damage.
Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) for pain and inflammation, corticosteroids (such as prednisone ) for more severe symptoms or kidney involvement.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
HSP is the most common form of vasculitis in children, with an incidence of 10-20 per 100,000 children per year.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Typically follows an upper respiratory infection (e.g., streptococcal infection), genetic predisposition.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most children recover fully without long-term consequences; however, kidney damage can occur in a small percentage, leading to chronic kidney disease.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney involvement (e.g., glomerulonephritis), gastrointestinal bleeding, and long-term joint pain.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Conditions
Sub-category: Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Symptoms:
excessive worry about various aspects of life; difficulty controlling worry; restlessness; fatigue; difficulty concentrating; irritability; muscle tension; sleep disturbances
Root Cause:
Overactivity in brain circuits responsible for fear and worry, influenced by genetic predisposition, environmental stressors, and chemical imbalances.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical interview and observation based on DSM-5 criteria; questionnaires like the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7).
Treatment:
Psychotherapy (especially cognitive-behavioral therapy), relaxation techniques, medications, and lifestyle adjustments such as regular physical activity.
Medications:
SSRIs like fluoxetine or escitalopram and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like duloxetine . Benzodiazepines may be used short-term for acute anxiety episodes but are not recommended for long-term use in children.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 0.9%-1.9% of children and adolescents worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of anxiety or depression, exposure to stressful events, temperament (e.g., behavioral inhibition), and overprotective parenting.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively, though GAD often requires ongoing monitoring and intervention due to its chronic nature.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Academic or social difficulties, depression, sleep disorders, and physical health problems like chronic headaches or stomachaches.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Conditions
Sub-category: Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Symptoms:
obsessions (intrusive, unwanted thoughts); compulsions (repetitive behaviors to reduce distress); excessive handwashing; checking locks or appliances; counting or organizing items; fear of contamination; distress when routines are disrupted
Root Cause:
Dysfunction in brain circuits involving the orbitofrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and striatum; linked to serotonin dysregulation and sometimes autoimmune responses (e.g., PANDAS in pediatric cases).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria, detailed history of obsessions and compulsions, and ruling out other conditions.
Treatment:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with exposure and response prevention (ERP), medications, and family-based therapy.
Medications:
SSRIs such as fluoxetine , fluvoxamine , or sertraline are commonly prescribed to reduce the frequency and intensity of obsessions and compulsions.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1%-3% of children and adolescents worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of OCD, history of infections like streptococcal infections (linked to PANDAS), and certain temperament traits such as perfectionism.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
OCD can be chronic but is manageable with early and sustained treatment; some individuals experience significant symptom reduction, while others may have recurring episodes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Interference with daily life, social isolation, academic or work challenges, depression, and anxiety disorders.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Conditions
Sub-category: Other Behavioral Issues
Symptoms:
frequent temper tantrums; argumentative behavior; deliberate defiance of rules; irritability; vindictiveness; blaming others for own mistakes; persistent anger and resentment
Root Cause:
Dysfunction in the regulation of emotions and behaviors due to genetic, environmental, and social factors, including inconsistent discipline and poor parent-child interactions.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria, including at least six months of persistent oppositional and defiant behaviors that interfere with social, academic, or family life. Diagnosis includes ruling out other mental health conditions.
Treatment:
Behavioral therapy focusing on parent training and child behavior management, family therapy to improve communication, and social skills training for children.
Medications:
While no specific medications are FDA-approved for ODD, stimulant medications (e.g., methylphenidate ) or non-stimulant ADHD medications (e.g., atomoxetine ) may be prescribed if ODD co-occurs with ADHD. Antidepressants (SSRIs, such as fluoxetine ) or atypical antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone ) can help manage severe emotional dysregulation.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 3-16% of children and adolescents, with a higher prevalence in boys before adolescence and equal prevalence in both genders during adolescence.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of mental health disorders, inconsistent or harsh parenting, exposure to violence or trauma, low socioeconomic status, and parental substance use.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early intervention and treatment can significantly improve outcomes; untreated ODD may lead to conduct disorder or other mental health issues.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Academic difficulties, strained family and peer relationships, increased risk of substance abuse, and progression to conduct disorder or antisocial personality disorder in adulthood.
Conduct Disorder
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Conditions
Sub-category: Disruptive Behavior Disorders
Symptoms:
aggressive behavior (e.g., bullying, physical fights); destruction of property; deceitfulness or theft; serious violations of rules (e.g., truancy, running away); lack of empathy or remorse
Root Cause:
Dysfunction in the emotional and social processing areas of the brain due to genetic, environmental, and social factors, including family dysfunction, trauma, and peer influences.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria, including a persistent pattern of behavior violating societal norms or the rights of others for at least 12 months, with at least three symptoms from the diagnostic criteria.
Treatment:
Multimodal treatment, including individual psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy), parent management training, and family therapy. School-based interventions may also be utilized.
Medications:
Medications are not specifically approved for conduct disorder but may be used to treat comorbid conditions. Stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate ) or non-stimulants (e.g., guanfacine ) for ADHD symptoms, SSRIs (e.g., sertraline ) for mood regulation, or atypical antipsychotics (e.g., aripiprazole ) for aggression or severe behavioral issues.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 2-10% of children and adolescents, with higher rates in males compared to females.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of mental health disorders, childhood maltreatment or neglect, exposure to violence, parental substance abuse, peer rejection, and socioeconomic challenges.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early intervention improves outcomes; untreated conduct disorder may persist into adulthood, potentially developing into antisocial personality disorder.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Academic failure, substance abuse, juvenile delinquency, incarceration, and persistent mental health issues in adulthood.
Diaper rash
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Skin Conditions
Symptoms:
redness and inflammation in the diaper area; tender skin; itching or discomfort; scaly or bumpy patches; blistering or open sores in severe cases
Root Cause:
Prolonged exposure to wet or soiled diapers, friction, or irritation from diaper materials or wipes. May also involve fungal (Candida) or bacterial infections.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on physical examination of the affected area and a review of the child’s symptoms and diapering habits.
Treatment:
Frequent diaper changes, use of barrier creams (e.g., zinc oxide or petroleum jelly), air-drying the area, and avoiding irritants. Antifungal or antibiotic creams may be prescribed for infections.
Medications:
Barrier creams (e.g., zinc oxide or petroleum jelly); antifungal creams (e.g., clotrimazole , miconazole ) for fungal infections; mild corticosteroid creams (e.g., hydrocortisone ) for inflammation in severe cases. Antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin ) may be prescribed for bacterial infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common, particularly in infants and toddlers wearing diapers; affects up to 25% of infants at some point.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged diaper use, infrequent diaper changes, sensitive skin, diarrhea, antibiotic use (affecting normal skin flora), or recent introduction of new foods.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper care; symptoms usually resolve within a few days of treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial or fungal infections if left untreated.
Molluscum contagiosum
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Skin Conditions
Symptoms:
small, firm, raised bumps on the skin; bumps with a central dimple; itching or redness around the bumps; possible inflammation or infection in scratched lesions
Root Cause:
Caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (a poxvirus) spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, contaminated objects, or water (e.g., swimming pools).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on the characteristic appearance of the lesions during a physical examination; biopsy may be performed in atypical cases.
Treatment:
Often self-limiting, resolving without treatment within 6-12 months. Physical removal (cryotherapy, curettage) or topical treatments (e.g., salicylic acid, tretinoin) may speed up resolution.
Medications:
Topical agents such as salicylic acid, potassium hydroxide, or tretinoin for lesion removal; antiviral creams like imiquimod or cidofovir in rare severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children under 10 years; more prevalent in tropical climates or crowded settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close physical contact, shared towels or toys, atopic dermatitis, or swimming in pools.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally resolves spontaneously without scarring, though treatment may help in persistent cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infection if lesions are scratched or irritated; scarring may occur after removal or healing.
Erythema multiforme
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Skin Conditions
Symptoms:
target-like red lesions with central clearing; rash often on hands, feet, or face; itching or burning; possible fever or fatigue in severe cases
Root Cause:
Hypersensitivity reaction, often triggered by infections (e.g., herpes simplex virus) or medications.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical presentation of target lesions; history of recent infections or medications; biopsy in uncertain cases.
Treatment:
Identifying and addressing the underlying cause (e.g., antiviral therapy for herpes); symptomatic relief with antihistamines or corticosteroids. Severe cases may require hospitalization for supportive care.
Medications:
Antiviral medications (e.g., acyclovir ) if herpes-related; corticosteroids (oral or topical) to reduce inflammation; antihistamines for itching. Severe cases may require immunosuppressive therapy.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; more common in children and young adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent herpes simplex virus infection, other viral infections (e.g., Mycoplasma pneumoniae), or use of medications like sulfa drugs, NSAIDs, or anticonvulsants.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Usually resolves within 2-4 weeks; recurrences are common if the underlying trigger is not addressed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progression to severe forms like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis; secondary skin infections.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Renal and Urologic Disorders
Symptoms:
pain or burning during urination; frequent urination; urgent need to urinate; cloudy or foul-smelling urine; fever; abdominal pain; bedwetting in children; irritability in infants
Root Cause:
Caused by bacterial infections, most commonly Escherichia coli, entering the urinary tract and proliferating.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through a urinalysis (checking for white blood cells, nitrites, or bacteria in urine) and urine culture to identify the causative organism.
Treatment:
Antibiotics are prescribed based on the sensitivity of the causative bacteria. Increased fluid intake and pain relievers may be recommended.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate, cephalexin (cephalosporins), or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (sulfonamide class) are commonly prescribed. In more severe cases, intravenous antibiotics like ceftriaxone (third-generation cephalosporin) may be used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 3–5% of children annually; more common in girls than boys after the neonatal period.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female anatomy, improper wiping, constipation, urinary stasis, previous UTI, and vesicoureteral reflux (VUR).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely treatment; most children recover completely without complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If untreated, can lead to kidney infection (pyelonephritis), sepsis, or long-term kidney damage such as scarring.
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Renal and Urologic Disorders
Symptoms:
recurrent utis; bedwetting; abdominal or flank pain; fever; foul-smelling or cloudy urine
Root Cause:
A condition where urine flows backward from the bladder to the ureters and kidneys due to an abnormality in the valve mechanism.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed using a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) and renal ultrasound to evaluate the urinary system and reflux severity.
Treatment:
Treatment may involve prophylactic antibiotics, bladder training, and in severe cases, surgical correction such as ureteral reimplantation.
Medications:
Long-term, low-dose antibiotics (e.g., trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, nitrofurantoin ) may be prescribed to prevent UTIs.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1–2% of children, more common in girls and those with a family history of VUR.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, recurrent UTIs, or congenital abnormalities in the urinary tract.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most mild cases resolve as the child grows, but severe cases may require surgery to prevent kidney damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent UTIs, kidney infections, and long-term kidney damage such as scarring or hypertension.
Nephrotic syndrome
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Renal and Urologic Disorders
Symptoms:
swelling (edema) in the face, abdomen, or legs; foamy urine; weight gain; fatigue; loss of appetite
Root Cause:
Damage to the glomeruli in the kidneys leads to excessive protein loss in the urine, causing low blood protein levels and fluid retention.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through urinalysis (showing proteinuria), blood tests (low albumin, elevated cholesterol), and kidney biopsy in some cases.
Treatment:
Includes corticosteroids to reduce protein loss, diuretics to control swelling, dietary changes (low sodium), and sometimes immunosuppressive drugs.
Medications:
Prednisone (corticosteroid) is the first-line treatment. Diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) and ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril ) may also be used to manage symptoms.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence of approximately 2–7 per 100,000 children, most common between ages 2–6 years.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male gender, infections, allergies, and genetic predisposition.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases respond well to steroids, though some may experience relapses. Prognosis depends on the underlying cause.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of infections, blood clots, acute kidney injury, and chronic kidney disease in severe or untreated cases.
Wilms’ tumor
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Renal and Urologic Disorders
Symptoms:
abdominal swelling or mass; abdominal pain; fever; blood in the urine (hematuria); nausea or vomiting; loss of appetite; high blood pressure
Root Cause:
A rare kidney cancer arising from embryonic kidney cells, often associated with genetic mutations or syndromes like WAGR syndrome or Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed using imaging (abdominal ultrasound, CT, or MRI), blood tests, urinalysis, and biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment:
Treatment includes surgery to remove the tumor (nephrectomy), followed by chemotherapy and sometimes radiation therapy.
Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as vincristine , dactinomycin , and doxorubicin are commonly used in combination.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 10,000 children, typically diagnosed between ages 3–4 years.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of Wilms’ tumor, genetic syndromes (e.g., Beckwith-Wiedemann), and congenital anomalies like aniridia.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is excellent with early diagnosis and treatment; 5-year survival rates exceed 90%.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential for metastasis (to lungs or liver), chronic kidney disease post-treatment, and complications from chemotherapy or radiation.
Clubfoot
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Orthopedic Disorders
Symptoms:
foot turned inward or downward; tight achilles tendon; calf muscle underdevelopment; difficulty wearing regular shoes or walking normally
Root Cause:
Congenital deformity of the foot where tendons and ligaments are shortened, causing abnormal alignment and positioning.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination at birth; prenatal diagnosis through ultrasound may identify severe cases.
Treatment:
The Ponseti method (manipulation and casting), Achilles tenotomy, and bracing; severe cases may require surgical correction.
Medications:
Post-treatment pain may be managed with acetaminophen (analgesic) or ibuprofen (NSAID).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 1,000 live births worldwide; more common in males.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, maternal smoking during pregnancy, certain genetic syndromes, oligohydramnios.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent prognosis with early treatment; untreated cases can lead to lifelong disability and impaired mobility.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent deformity, residual stiffness, skin irritation or pressure sores from braces or casts.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Orthopedic Disorders
Symptoms:
pain and swelling below the kneecap; tenderness over the tibial tuberosity; worsened pain during activity (e.g., running, jumping); tightness in surrounding muscles, especially quadriceps and hamstrings
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the patellar tendon where it attaches to the tibial tuberosity, often caused by repetitive stress during growth spurts.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history and physical exam; X-rays may show bony changes in the tibial tuberosity.
Treatment:
Rest, icing, physical therapy, stretching exercises, and activity modification; in severe cases, immobilization or surgical intervention.
Medications:
Pain can be managed with acetaminophen (analgesic) or ibuprofen (NSAID).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in adolescents aged 10-15 years, especially those involved in sports; affects about 10-20% of active adolescents.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Rapid growth during puberty, repetitive stress from sports, tight quadriceps or hamstrings, male gender.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Self-limiting condition that resolves with skeletal maturity; symptoms typically improve within 6-18 months.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, persistent swelling, or bony prominence at the tibial tuberosity; rare cases may require surgical intervention.
Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Miscellaneous Conditions
Sub-category: Eye and Vision Disorders
Symptoms:
misalignment of the eyes; double vision; head tilting; difficulty focusing; loss of depth perception
Root Cause:
Strabismus is caused by an imbalance in the muscles controlling eye movement, improper nerve signals, or conditions affecting the brain's ability to coordinate the eyes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Comprehensive eye exam, cover-uncover test, corneal light reflex test, and evaluation of binocular vision. Neurological assessments may also be conducted if underlying neurological issues are suspected.
Treatment:
Includes prescription glasses, prism lenses, vision therapy, eye muscle surgery to correct alignment, and botulinum toxin (Botox) injections in some cases.
Medications:
Botulinum toxin type A (Botox), a neuromuscular blocking agent, can temporarily weaken overactive eye muscles to improve alignment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 2-4% of children and can also occur in adults due to trauma or other medical conditions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of strabismus, premature birth, low birth weight, neurological disorders, uncorrected refractive errors, or eye injuries.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early treatment, eye alignment can be improved, and normal binocular vision may develop. Untreated cases can lead to amblyopia and long-term visual deficits.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Amblyopia, permanent misalignment, double vision, and psychosocial challenges due to appearance-related concerns.