Pediatric Health Conditions Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts related to various pediatric health conditions, their definitions, and characteristics for effective study and review.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

A virus causing respiratory infections, particularly bronchiolitis, known for mucous production and airway obstruction, peaking in infants under 3 months. Signs and Symptoms: Rhinorrhea, pharyngitis, cough, sneezing, wheezing, fever, tachypnea, retractions, decreased appetite, lethargy; severe cases may show respiratory distress or cyanosis. Management: Supportive care including hydration, humidified oxygen, suctioning; nebulized hypertonic saline; severe cases may require hospitalization or mechanical ventilation. Palivizumab is used for prevention in high-risk infants. Patient Education: Emphasize hand hygiene, avoidance of sick contacts, adequate fluid intake, recognition of worsening respiratory distress, and understanding of preventative measures like immunizations.

Asthma

A chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by recurring symptoms like wheezing, breathlessness, and chest pain. Signs and Symptoms: Recurrent coughing (especially at night or with exercise), wheezing, shortness of breath (dyspnea), chest tightness, retractions, nasal flaring. Management: Acute management with short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) for rescue; long-term control with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and sometimes leukotriene modifiers. Development of an asthma action plan is crucial. Patient Education: Identify and avoid triggers, proper inhaler technique, adherence to medication regimen, regular monitoring (e.g., peak flow meter), recognition of emergency signs, and importance of an individualized asthma action plan.

Cystic Fibrosis

A genetic disorder characterized by thick mucus secretions affecting multiple body systems, notably the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Signs and Symptoms: Salty-tasting skin, persistent cough with mucus production, frequent lung infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia), wheezing, shortness of breath, poor growth/weight gain despite good appetite, bulky/fatty stools (steatorrhea), nasal polyps, clubbing of digits, and in infants, meconium ileus. Management: Airway clearance techniques (chest physiotherapy, vests), bronchodilators, mucolytics (dornase alfa), antibiotics for infections, pancreatic enzyme replacement, fat-soluble vitamin supplementation, high-calorie/high-protein diet, and CFTR modulators. Patient Education: Strict adherence to daily treatments including airway clearance and medications, infection control measures, nutritional support, importance of regular medical follow-ups, and genetic counseling.

Status Asthmaticus

A severe asthma exacerbation that can lead to respiratory failure and requires immediate medical attention. Signs and Symptoms: Severe respiratory distress, unresponsiveness to usual bronchodilator therapy, accessory muscle use, cyanosis, decreased level of consciousness, and potentially 'silent chest' indicating severe airway obstruction. Management: Emergent treatment with continuous inhaled short-acting beta-agonists, systemic corticosteroids, IV fluids, oxygen therapy, magnesium sulfate, and potentially ventilatory support. Patient Education: Recognition of severe asthma symptoms, immediate emergency medical attention, strict adherence to asthma action plan, and proper use of rescue inhalers.

Kawasaki Disease

An acute systemic vasculitis of unknown cause, primarily affecting children; characterized by prolonged fever and risk of coronary artery aneurysms. Signs and Symptoms: Prolonged fever (more than 5 days, unresponsive to antipyretics), conjunctival injection (red eyes without exudate), strawberry tongue, red/swollen hands and feet, polymorphous rash, and cervical lymphadenopathy. Management: High-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin to reduce inflammation and prevent coronary artery aneurysms. Patient Education: Importance of adherence to medication, monitoring for fever or rash recurrence, symptoms of cardiac involvement, and long-term follow-up with cardiology for cardiac complications.

Iron Deficiency Anemia

A condition resulting from insufficient dietary iron, leading to decreased hemoglobin production and symptoms like fatigue and pallor. Signs and Symptoms: Fatigue, pallor, irritability, weakness, spoon-shaped nails (koilonychia), restless legs syndrome. In severe cases, pica (craving for non-food items) or glossitis. Management: Iron supplementation (oral ferrous sulfate) for several months, dietary changes to include iron-rich foods, and treatment of underlying causes of blood loss. Patient Education: Importance of consistent iron supplement administration (with vitamin C for absorption), potential side effects of iron (constipation, dark stools), dietary sources of iron (red meat, fortified cereals, beans), and not to consume iron supplements with milk or antacids.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic disorder that causes abnormal hemoglobin (sickle hemoglobin), leading to red blood cells sickling under stress and causing various complications. Signs and Symptoms: Anemia, jaundice, painful vaso-occlusive crises (severe pain in bones, joints, chest, abdomen), acute chest syndrome, splenic sequestration, priapism, increased susceptibility to infection, delayed growth/development. Management: Pain management (analgesics, hydration), hydroxyurea to increase fetal hemoglobin, blood transfusions for severe anemia or acute chest syndrome, penicillin prophylaxis for infection prevention in children, and immunizations. Patient Education: Importance of hydration, pain management strategies, recognizing early signs of crises, infection prevention, regular immunizations, and avoiding triggers like dehydration, cold, and stress.

Hemophilia

A hereditary bleeding disorder resulting from deficiencies of specific clotting factors, characterized by prolonged bleeding episodes. Signs and Symptoms: Prolonged bleeding after injury or surgery, spontaneous bleeding into joints (hemarthrosis), muscles, or soft tissues, epistaxis (nosebleeds), hematuria, and easy bruising. Management: Replacement therapy with the deficient clotting factor (Factor VIII for Hemophilia A, Factor IX for Hemophilia B), desmopressin (DDAVP) for mild Hemophilia A, and antifibrinolytics. Patient Education: Importance of prophylactic factor replacement, recognizing and treating bleeding episodes early, avoiding high-risk activities/sports, dental care, avoiding aspirin/NSAIDs, and wearing medical alert identification.

Epistaxis

Nosebleed; can be caused by trauma or underlying conditions, and management includes applying pressure and maintaining a calm demeanor. Signs and Symptoms: Blood flowing from one or both nostrils, often due to dry air, vigorous nose blowing, trauma, or underlying clotting disorders. Management: Have the person sit upright, lean slightly forward, apply firm pressure to the soft part of the nose for 10-15 minutes, encourage breathing through the mouth, and apply a cool compress to the bridge of the nose. For persistent or severe bleeding, seek medical attention. Patient Education: Avoid picking the nose, humidify the air, hydrate, avoid excessive nose blowing, and seek medical attention if bleeding is recurrent, heavy, or associated with other symptoms.

Hirschsprung Disease

A congenital condition characterized by an absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon, leading to bowel obstruction. Signs and Symptoms: In newborns, failure to pass meconium within 24-48 hours, abdominal distention, bilious vomiting, reluctance to feed. In older infants/children, chronic constipation, ribbon-like stools, failure to thrive. Management: Surgical removal of the aganglionic bowel segment (pull-through procedure) to restore normal bowel function. Temporary colostomy may be performed. Patient Education: Pre- and post-operative care, colostomy care if applicable, recognizing signs of enterocolitis (fever, explosive diarrhea, abdominal distention), proper nutrition, and vigilant monitoring for complications like constipation or diarrhea post-surgery.

Diabetes Mellitus

A disorder characterized by insufficient insulin production or action, leading to high blood sugar levels; includes Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Signs and Symptoms (Type 1): Polydipsia (increased thirst), polyuria (increased urination), polyphagia (increased hunger), unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurry vision. Signs and Symptoms (Type 2): Often subtle or asymptomatic; may include fatigue, frequent infections, slow-healing sores, blurred vision, increased thirst/urination. Management: Type 1 requires lifelong insulin therapy. Type 2 involves lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise) and potentially oral medications or insulin. Both types require blood glucose monitoring. Patient Education: Importance of consistent blood glucose monitoring, adherence to medication/insulin regimen, healthy eating habits, regular exercise, recognition and treatment of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, foot care, sick day management, and regular medical check-ups.

Celiac Disease

An autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, resulting in damage to the small intestine and malabsorption of nutrients. Signs and Symptoms: Diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating, weight loss, fatigue, irritability, anemia, poor growth, skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis), and dental enamel defects. Management: Strict, lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet. Patient Education: Understanding gluten-containing foods (wheat, barley, rye), reading food labels carefully, preventing cross-contamination, nutritional counseling, and importance of adherence to prevent long-term complications and promote intestinal healing.

Nephrotic Syndrome

A clinical state characterized by proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and hyperlipidemia, causing massive protein loss in urine. Signs and Symptoms: Peripheral edema (especially periorbital and scrotal/labial), ascites, weight gain, fatigue, anorexia, frothy urine. Management: Corticosteroids (prednisone) are the primary treatment for inducing remission. Diuretics for edema, albumin infusions, dietary modifications (low sodium, adequate protein), and monitoring for complications like infection or thrombosis. Patient Education: Adherence to medication, monitoring for relapse, recognizing signs of infection, dietary restrictions, fluid balance monitoring, and regular follow-up appointments.

Chronic Kidney Disease

A progressive condition where more than 50% of renal function is lost over time, leading to systemic complications. Signs and Symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, nausea, loss of appetite, pruritus, edema, hypertension, changes in urination, pallor, growth retardation in children. Management: Management of underlying causes (e.g., hypertension, diabetes), dietary modifications (protein restriction, low sodium, low potassium, low phosphorus), fluid management, iron supplementation for anemia, medications to control blood pressure, and in end-stage renal disease, dialysis or kidney transplant. Patient Education: Importance of medication adherence, dietary restrictions, fluid intake monitoring, regular blood pressure checks, recognizing signs of worsening kidney function, and understanding options for renal replacement therapy.

Seizure Disorders

A range of conditions characterized by excessive neuronal discharges in the brain; epilepsy is a common type. Signs and Symptoms: Vary widely depending on the type of seizure. May include altered consciousness, involuntary muscle movements (convulsions), staring spells, sensory disturbances, or behavioral changes. Management: Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the primary treatment. Vagal nerve stimulation, ketogenic diet, or surgery may be options for refractory cases. Patient Education: Importance of medication adherence, avoiding triggers (sleep deprivation, stress), seizure first aid (protecting from injury, not restraining), wearing medical alert identification, and understanding the child's seizure action plan.

Cerebral Palsy (CP)

A group of permanent movement disorders resulting from non-progressive brain injury; characterized by motor impairments and associated disabilities. Signs and Symptoms: Persistent primitive reflexes, delayed motor milestones, abnormal muscle tone (spasticity, hypotonia, ataxia, dyskinesia), difficulties with coordination and balance, feeding difficulties, speech impairments, and often associated conditions like intellectual disability, vision/hearing problems, or seizures. Management: Multidisciplinary approach including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, assistive devices (orthotics, walkers), medications to manage spasticity (e.g., baclofen, botulinum toxin), and surgical interventions. Patient Education: Importance of ongoing therapies, proper use of assistive devices, adapting the home environment, promoting independence, skin care, nutritional support, and participating in support groups.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

An inflammatory joint disease in children leading to joint stiffness and discomfort; includes various subtypes based on the number of joints involved. Signs and Symptoms: Joint pain, swelling, stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity), limping, fatigue, fever, rash, and loss of range of motion. Management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like methotrexate, and biologic agents. Physical therapy to maintain joint function, reduce pain, and preserve mobility. Patient Education: Adherence to medication regimen, importance of physical therapy and exercise, joint protection strategies, managing pain, healthy lifestyle, regular eye exams (due to risk of uveitis), and psychological support.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

A chronic autoimmune disease primarily affecting younger women, characterized by systemic inflammation and involvement of multiple organ systems. Signs and Symptoms: Fatigue, fever, joint pain and swelling (arthralgia/arthritis), skin rashes (classic butterfly or malar rash), photosensitivity, hair loss, mouth ulcers, kidney problems, seizures, pleurisy, and Raynaud's phenomenon. Management: NSAIDs for joint pain, antimalarials (hydroxychloroquine) for skin and joint symptoms, corticosteroids for flares, and immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil) for severe organ involvement. Patient Education: Importance of medication adherence, sun protection, identifying and avoiding triggers, managing fatigue, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, recognizing signs of disease flares, and regular medical monitoring.

Amputation

The surgical removal of a limb or part of a limb, often requiring subsequent rehabilitation and prosthetic fitting. Signs and Symptoms: Surgical removal of a limb or part thereof, post-operative pain, phantom limb pain/sensation, body image disturbance. Management: Immediate post-operative care (pain management, wound care), physical therapy for strengthening and mobility, occupational therapy for activities of daily living, prosthetic fitting and training, and psychological support. Patient Education: Wound care, stump care to prevent infection and promote healing, pain management strategies (including phantom limb pain), proper use and care of prosthetics, adherence to rehabilitation program, and addressing emotional and psychological adjustments.

Acute Appendicitis

Inflammation of the appendix leading to possible rupture if untreated, commonly presents with RLQ pain and gastrointestinal symptoms. Signs and Symptoms: Periumbilical pain migrating to the right lower quadrant (RLQ), rebound tenderness (Blumberg's sign), rigidity, guarding, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, low-grade fever, increased WBC count. Management: Surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy) is the definitive treatment. Antibiotics may be given pre- or post-operatively, especially if rupture is suspected. Patient Education: Recognition of key symptoms for timely medical evaluation, pre-operative instructions, post-operative wound care, pain management, activity restrictions, and signs of complications (e.g., infection, abscess).

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Includes conditions like Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease, characterized by chronic inflammation of the GI tract. Signs and Symptoms: Abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea (often bloody in Ulcerative Colitis), weight loss, fatigue, fever, rectal bleeding, anemia, and extra-intestinal manifestations (e.g., joint pain, skin lesions, eye inflammation). Management: Anti-inflammatory medications (aminosalicylates), corticosteroids for flares, immunomodulators (e.g., azathioprine, methotrexate), and biologic agents. Surgical intervention may be necessary for complications or refractory disease. Patient Education: Importance of medication adherence, dietary modifications to manage symptoms (trigger foods), stress management, recognizing flares, preventing complications, nutritional support, and regular follow-ups for disease monitoring and cancer screening.