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Consecutive Children (consecutive + child)
Selected AbstractsThe relationship between acute stress disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder in injured children,JOURNAL OF TRAUMATIC STRESS, Issue 6 2007Richard A. Bryant This study indexed the relationship between acute stress disorder (ASD) and subsequent posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in injured children. Consecutive children between 7,13 years admitted to a hospital after traumatic injury (n = 76) were assessed for ASD. Children were followed up 6-months posttrauma (n = 62), and administered the PTSD Reaction Index. Acute stress disorder was diagnosed in 10% of patients, and 13% satisfied criteria for PTSD. At 6-months posttrauma, PTSD was diagnosed in 25% of patients who were diagnosed with ASD. Acute stress reactions that did not include dissociation provided better prediction of PTSD than full ASD criteria. These findings suggest that the current ASD diagnosis is not optimal in identifying younger children who are high risk for PTSD development. [source] The safety of sublingual immunotherapy with one or multiple pollen allergens in childrenALLERGY, Issue 12 2008F. Agostinis Background:, Since the majority of allergic patients are polysensitized, it is often necessary to prescribe immunotherapy with multiple allergens. It is crucial to know if the administration of multiple allergens with sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) increases the risk of side-effects in children. Methods:, Consecutive children with respiratory allergy because of pollens, receiving SLIT for multiple or single allergens were followed-up in a postmarketing survey. Inclusion criteria were those for prescribing SLIT according to guidelines. Parents recorded in a diary card the side-effects (eye symptoms, rhinitis/ear itching, asthma, oral itching/swelling, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, urticaria, angioedema and anaphylaxis). The side-effects were graded as mild, moderate and severe. Results:, Four hundred and thirty-three children (285 male, age range 3,18 years) receiving SLIT were surveyed. Of them, 179 received a single extract, and 254 multiple allergens. The total number of doses given was 40 169 (17 143 with single allergen). Overall, 178 episodes were reported. Of them, 76 occurred with the single allergen (42.46% patients, 4.43/1000 doses) and 102 (40.3% patients, 4.42/1000 doses) with multiple allergens (P = NS). 165 episodes (92.5%) were mild and self-resolving and were equally distributed in the two groups. In 13 cases, the events were judged of moderate severity and medical advice was required. Three patients discontinued SLIT, despite the local side-effects being mild. No emergency treatment was required at all. Conclusion:, The use of multiple allergens for SLIT does not increase the rate of side-effects in children. [source] Evolution of hypoxemia in patients with severe cirrhosisJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 10 2002Isabelle Colle Abstract Background and Aim: Hypoxemia is common in patients with cirrhosis but the natural history of this syndrome is unknown. The aim of this study was to follow a series of patients with cirrhosis and to compare patients with and without hypoxemia to determine their risk of complications and survival rate. Methods: Fifty-eight consecutive Child,Pugh C patients with cirrhosis were included and followed up for 1,18 months. Blood gas measurements and plasma endothelin levels were measured in all patients. Blood gas measurements were repeated in 34 patients. Results: Hypoxemia was present in 35 patients (60%) (alveolar-arterial oxygen (AaO2) gradient > 20 mmHg) but none had pulmonary symptoms. There was no significant difference in liver tests and plasma endothelin levels between hypoxemic and non-hypoxemic patients. The occurrence of variceal bleeding and survival rate was not significantly different between the two groups. The AaO2 gradient worsened in nine patients and normalized in six of the hypoxemic patients. The AaO2 gradient increased to more than 20 mmHg in seven non-hypoxemic patients. There was no relationship between AaO2 gradient changes and Child,Pugh score grade changes. Conclusion: Asymptomatic hypoxemia is common in patients with severe cirrhosis but it is not a predictive factor of short-term complications or mortality. These results should be considered when deciding on liver transplantation. [source] Developmental coordination disorder in children with attention-deficit,hyperactivity disorder and physical therapy interventionDEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE & CHILD NEUROLOGY, Issue 12 2007Nathan Watemberg MD Although physical therapy (PT) is effective in improving motor function in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD), insufficient data are available on the impact of this intervention in children with combined attention-deficit,hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and DCD. This prospective study aimed to establish the prevalence of DCD among a cohort of patients with ADHD, characterize the motor impairment, identify additional comorbidities, and determine the role of PT intervention on these patients. DCD was detected in 55.2% of 96 consecutive children with ADHD (81 males, 15 females), mostly among patients with the inattentive type (64.3% compared with 11% of those with the hyperactive/impulsive type, p<0.05). Mean age was 8 years 4 months (SD 2y). Individuals with both ADHD and DCD more often had specific learning disabilities (p=0.05) and expressive language deficits (p=0.03) than children with ADHD only. Twenty-eight patients with ADHD and DCD randomly received either intensive group PT (group A, mean age 9y 3mo, SD 2y 3mo) or no intervention (group B, mean age 9y 3mo, SD 2y 2mo). PT significantly improved motor performance (assessed by the Movement Assessment Battery for Children; p=0.001). In conclusion, DCD is common in children with ADHD, particularly of the inattentive type. Patients with both ADHD and DCD are more likely to exhibit specific learning disabilities and phonological (pronunciation) deficits. Intensive PT intervention has a marked impact on the motor performance of these children. [source] Clinical characteristics of language regression in childrenDEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE & CHILD NEUROLOGY, Issue 8 2003Sy Wilson MD; The spectrum of language regression in childhood is incompletely understood. To describe the features of this disorder more fully, we reviewed the records of 196 consecutive children (143 males and 53 females) with language regression or perceived plateau evaluated between 1988 and 1994 by a child neurologist. Mean age at regression was 21.2 months and the mean interval to referral was 34.8 months. A trigger for the regression was identified in 74 of the children (38%) and was associated with a more rapid regression. Mean age at follow-up was 64 months (SD 55). Seventy per cent of the children became nonverbal, and 75% were cognitively impaired. Language regression was associated with a more global autistic regression in 93% of children. There was a history of seizures in 15% of the children. Some recovery occurred in 61% but only one child recovered fully. Improvement was more likely in the 49% who were entirely developmentally normal before the regression. We conclude that language regression in childhood is a serious disorder with significant long-term morbidity. [source] ENDOSCOPIC IDENTIFICATION OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI GASTRITIS IN CHILDRENDIGESTIVE ENDOSCOPY, Issue 2 2010Nao Hidaka Aim:, The role of endoscopic findings in deciding whether to biopsy the gastric mucosa of children remains unclear. The present study attempted, for the first time, to identify the value of endoscopic features for diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection in children. Methods:, Hp status of consecutive children receiving esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) was established by combinations of histology, 13C-urea breath test, and serum Hp immunoglobulin (Ig)G antibody. After routine EGD using a conventional endoscope, the presence of RAC (regular arrangement of collecting venules) was scored by close observation, which was carried out at two sites of lower corpus lesser curvature and upper corpus greater curvature. RAC-positive was defined as the presence of minute red points in a regular pattern. Antral nodularity was also scored as present/absent. Results:, Eighty-seven consecutive children (38 boys, median age 13 years, range 9,15 years) were evaluated; 25 (29%) were Hp positive. Antral nodularity was seen in 21 (84%) all of whom were Hp positive. The RAC-negative pattern based on examination of the upper and lower corpus yielded a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value for the presence of Hp infection of 100%, 90%, 81%, and 100%. Magnifying endoscopy confirmed that the RAC pattern corresponded to collecting venules in the gastric corpus. Conclusions:, The absence of RAC pattern suggests that gastric mucosa biopsies should be taken despite otherwise normal-appearing gastric mucosa for the diagnosis of Hp infection in children. [source] The influence of concurrent anticonvulsants on the efficacy of the ketogenic dietEPILEPSIA, Issue 8 2009Peter F. Morrison Summary It is unknown if any particular anticonvulsants modify the likelihood of seizure reduction when used in combination with the ketogenic diet (KD). A retrospective study was performed of 217 consecutive children who started the KD from 2000,2007. Patients included did not have any changes to their anticonvulsant dose. Efficacy data at 3 months on the KD were analyzed with respect to the six most frequently used anticonvulsants in this cohort. A total of 115 patients were included. Children receiving phenobarbital in combination with the KD were significantly less likely to have a >50% seizure reduction (p = 0.003). Conversely, those receiving zonisamide in combination with the KD at onset were more likely to have a >50% reduction (p = 0.04). These results provide practical information to clinicians who are treating children receiving both the KD and anticonvulsants. [source] High-resolution MRI Enhances Identification of Lesions Amenable to Surgical Therapy in Children with Intractable EpilepsyEPILEPSIA, Issue 8 2004Monisha Goyal Summary:,Purpose: Many children with refractory epilepsy can achieve better seizure control with surgical therapy. An abnormality on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), along with corroborating localization by other modalities, markedly increases chances of successful surgical outcome. We studied the impact of high-resolution MRI on the surgical outcome of intractable epilepsy. Methods: High-resolution MRI using four-coil phased surface array was obtained as part of the comprehensive presurgical protocol for children with focal onset intractable seizures evaluated by our epilepsy center during the first half of 2002. Results: Thirteen consecutive children, ages 5 to 18 years, entered this prospective study. For four patients with a lesion on a recent MRI examination with a standard head coil, management did not change with high-resolution MRI. Standard MRI in the other nine patients did not identify a lesion. However, high-resolution MRI with the phased-array surface coil found previously undiagnosed focal abnormalities in five of nine patients. These abnormalities included hippocampal dysplasia, hippocampal atrophy, and dual pathology with frontal cortical dysplasia. In four of nine patients, no identifiable lesion was identified on the high-resolution MRI. All patients underwent invasive monitoring. In three of five patients, newly diagnosed lesions correlated with EEG abnormalities, and resection was performed. Conclusions: In our center, high-resolution MRI identified lesions not detected by standard MRI in more than half the children (56%). Technical advances such as four-coil phased surface array MRI can help identify and better delineate lesions, improving the diagnosis of patients who are candidates for surgical treatment of refractory epilepsy. [source] Discrimination of Normal Gastric Mucosa from Helicobacter pylori Gastritis using Standard Endoscopes and a Single Observation Site: Studies in Children and Young AdultsHELICOBACTER, Issue 2 2004Yoshiko Nakayama ABSTRACT Background., In the Helicobacter pylori -negative normal stomach, collecting venules are visible in the gastric corpus as numerous minute points. This finding has been termed ,regular arrangement of collecting venules' (RAC). The aim of the present study was to investigate the reliability of the presence of the RAC pattern for discrimination of normal gastric mucosa from H. pylori gastritis in pediatric patients. Methods., Fifty-two consecutive children, adolescents and young adults (male:female 24 : 28; median age 15 years, range 8,29 years) referred for endoscopy and assessed for H. pylori infection were prospectively studied. The lower lesser curvature of the corpus near the incisura was evaluated for the RAC pattern using a standard endoscope with the tip close to, but not in contact with, the gastric surface. Gastric biopsies were taken after the endoscopic observation. Results., In all the 29 RAC-positive patients, active H. pylori gastritis was absent, whereas H. pylori gastritis was found in 20 of 23 RAC-negative patients (86.9%). Conclusions., Identification of the RAC pattern at the lower lesser curvature of the corpus using close observation with a standard endoscope proved to be an effective and practical marker to discriminate normal histology from H. pylori gastritis among both children and young adults. Absence of the RAC pattern should prompt gastric mucosal biopsies despite otherwise normal-appearing gastric mucosa. [source] The Zero-to-Three diagnostic classification: A contribution to the validation of this classification from a sample of 85 under-threesINFANT MENTAL HEALTH JOURNAL, Issue 4 2003Nicole Guédeney The goal of this article is to contribute to the validity of the Zero-to-Three diagnostic classification (DC: 0,3) by studying the range, the indices of consistency, the interjudge reliability, and the issue of comorbidity on Axis I. Eighty-five consecutive children under three years of age and their families were assessed in six mental health centers with clinical interviews and developmental testing. Diagnoses on the five axes of the classification system were made after clinical consensus. The Task Force data record DC: 0,3 was completed for each subject. The use of the classification on a sample of 85 children showed good consistency between the different axes, moderate interjudge reliability, and a high percentage of associated diagnoses on Axis I. The DC: 0,3 appears to help the clinician catch the complexity of the clinical situation in planning the therapeutic strategy. However, the objectivity of the diagnostic criteria must be improved if this system is to be used in research settings. ©2003 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health. [source] Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging.INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 2 2004A useful radiological tool in diagnosing pediatric IBD Abstract Background Recent advances in gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (G-MRI) have been developed to enhance the resolution of the intestinal mucosa and facilitate the differentiation of ulcerative colitis (UC) from Crohn's disease (CD). The objective of this study is to apply this technology in Pediatrics. Methods A G-MRI was performed on 58 consecutive children with suspected IBD between 1999 and 2002 using intravenous gadolinium, fat suppression, and respiration-suspended sequences to enhance the resolution of the intestinal wall. The sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing either UC or CD was determined by comparing the G-MRI to the established histologic diagnosis. Results G-MRI confirmed the diagnosis of either CD (21) or UC (7) with a sensitivity and specificity of 96% and 92%, respectively. Among the 21 patients with CD, 14 showed proximal small bowel involvement by G-MRI. In total, 17 patients were diagnosed with indeterminate colitis (IC) based on histologic criteria alone, and among these patients, G-MRI had a significantly lower non-classification rate (P < 0.02). In comparison, endoscopy was less sensitive (57%), but more specific (100%) than either histology or G-MRI in diagnosing IBD. G-MRI also showed a strong concordance with computed tomography in diagnosing CD (P = 0.001). Conclusion G-MRI is a both a sensitive and specific radiologic tool in diagnosing pediatric IBD. In patients with CD, G-MRI may be useful in identifying proximal small bowel involvement. Longitudinal follow-up studies are needed in those patients diagnosed with IC to determine the predictive value of G-MRI testing. [source] Histological evidences suggest recommending orchiopexy within the first year of life for children with unilateral inguinal cryptorchid testisINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 7 2007Kwan Hyun Park Objective: To determine the optimal timing for orchiopexy, we evaluated the histological parameters of the cryptorchid testis. Methods: We prospectively performed testicular biopsy in a total of 65 consecutive children with palpable unilateral inguinal cryptorchid testes. For controls, we used testicular histological slides from 15 age-matched children with testicular tumor. To investigate the fertility potential, we analyzed the parameters including mean tubular diameter (MTD), mean tubular fertility index (MTFI), germ cell count/tubule (GCC), Sertoli cell index (SCI) and interstitial fibrosis index (IFI). Results: The MTFI and GCC in children ,1 years of age were significantly higher than those of other older age groups. The MTFI, GCC and IFI were significantly better in patients ,2 years of age when compared to those of > 2 years. Compared to the controls, the MTFI and GCC in the patients were significantly worse in those aged > 2 years at surgical repair. In the ,2-year age group, the MTFI and GCC of the cryptorchid testis showed a decreasing tendency with age, which were contrasting with the ascending curves in the control and the curves crossed at 1,2 years of age in each parameter. Conclusions: To protect fertility potential, we recommend, orchiopexy should be performed within the first year of life, and no later than 2 years of age in patients with palpable inguinal cryptorchid testes. [source] Repair of Complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect with Tetralogy of Fallot:JOURNAL OF CARDIAC SURGERY, Issue 2 2004Literature Review, Our Experience Materials and Methods: Between January 1990 and January 2002, 17 consecutive children with CAVSD-TOF underwent complete correction. Nine patients (53%) underwent previous palliation. Mean age at repair was 2.9 ± 1.9 years. Mean gradient across the right ventricular outflow tract was 63 ± 16 mmHg. All children underwent closure of septal defect with a one-patch technique, employing autologous pericardial patch. Maximal tissue was preserved for LAVV reconstruction by making these incisions along the RV aspect of the ventricular septal crest. LAVV annuloplasty was performed in 10 (59%) patients. Six patients (35%) required a transannular patch. Results: Three (17.6%) hospital deaths occurred in this series. Causes of death included progressive heart failure in two patients and multiple organ failure in the other patient. Two patients required mediastinal exploration due to significant bleeding. Dysrhythmias were identified in 4 of 11 patients undergoing a right ventriculotomy versus none of the patients undergoing a transatrial transpulmonary approach (p = ns). The mean intensive care unit stay was 3.2 ± 2.4 days. Two patients required late reoperation due to severe LAVV regurgitation at 8.5 and 21 months, respectively, after the intracardiac complete repair. The mean follow-up time was 36 ± 34 months. All patients survived and are in NYHA functional class I or II. The LAVV regurgitation grade at follow-up was significantly lower than soon after operation, 1.1 ± 0.4 versus 1.7 ± 0.5 (p = 0.002). At follow-up, the mean gradient across the right ventricular outflow tract was 17 ± 6 mmHg, significantly lower than preoperatively (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Complete repair in patients with CAVSD-TOF seems to offer acceptable early and mid-term outcome in terms of mortality, morbidity, and reoperation rate. Palliation prior to complete repair may be reserved in specific cases presenting small pulmonary arteries or severely cyanotic neonates. The RVOT should be managed in the same fashion as for isolated TOF; however, a transatrial transpulmonary approach is our approach of choice. (J Card Surg 2004;19:175-183) [source] Safety of laryngeal mask airway and short-stay practice in office-based adenotonsillectomyACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2009R. GRAVNINGSBRÅTEN Background: It is still disputed whether laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is safe and convenient for adenotonsillectomy, and whether these procedures can be safely undertaken in an office-based short-stay ambulatory setting. We report the result of this practice in 1126 consecutive children <16 years of age. Methods: The patients received general anaesthesia with propofol and remifentanil. For analgesic prophylaxis, they received paracetamol, fentanyl and local anaesthetic administration. NSAIDs were given to patients weighing above 15 kgs. A surgical technique with elevation, scissors and electrocoagulation was used. Post-operatively, the tonsillectomies were observed in the unit for at least 1.5 h and the adenoidectomies for at least 15,20 min. Results: Conversion from LMA to an endotracheal tube was carried out in six patients (0.5%), mostly due to airway leakage during ventilation. One patient had a pulmonary atelectasis and was re-intubated. No re-operation was needed in the clinic after surgery, and all patients, except for the one with atelectasis (0.1%), were discharged home as planned. In 122 patients answering a questionnaire, after discharge, two patients (1.6%) were admitted to hospital and re-operated due to bleeding; a further six patients (4.9%) were admitted for observation. In 25% of the patients, nausea and vomiting occurred after discharge, including 21% vomiting of swallowed blood during home travel. Only 5.6% reported significant post-discharge pain. Conclusion: With a well-trained team, adenotonsillectomy on children can be carried out safely in an office-based setting with LMA and a short post-operative stay. [source] Cows milk consumption in constipation and anal fissure in infants and young childrenJOURNAL OF PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH, Issue 5 2003F And Objective: To examine daily cows milk consumption and duration of breastfeeding in infants and young children with anal fissure and constipation. Methods: Two groups of 30 consecutive children aged between 4 months and 3 years were evaluated retrospectively. Group I comprised children with chronic constipation and anal fissure in whom surgical causes were excluded, and group II comprised normal children. The daily consumption of cows milk, duration of breastfeeding and other clinical features of the children were investigated Results: The mean daily consumption of cows milk was significantly higher in group I (756 mL, range 200,1500 mL) than group II (253 mL, range 0,1000 mL) (P < 0.001). Group I children were breastfed for a significantly shorter period (5.8 months, range 0,18 months) than group II (10.1 months, range 2,24 months) (P < 0.006). The odds ratios for the two factors , children consuming more than 200 mL of cows milk per day (25 children in group I, 11 children in group II) and breastfeeding for less than 4 months (16 children in group I, 5 children in group II) , were calculated to be 8.6 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.23,0.74, P = 0.0005) and 5.7 (95% CI: 0.37,0.66, P = 0.007), respectively. Conclusions: Infants and young children with chronic constipation and anal fissure may consume larger amounts of cows milk than children with a normal bowel habit. Additionally, shorter duration of breastfeeding and early bottle feeding with cows milk may play a role in the development of constipation and anal fissure in infants and young children. [source] Onychomycosis in children: a survey of 46 casesMYCOSES, Issue 6 2005C. Romano Summary This is a retrospective study of the agents, clinical aspects, sources of infection and therapy of onychomycosis in children. In the period 1989,2000, we observed 46 consecutive children, until 16 years of age with onychomycosis (29 boys, 17 girls, mean age 10.8 years). Dermatophytes were isolated in 30 cases (Trichophyton rubrum in 22 cases, Trichophyton mentagrophytes in five, Epidermophyton floccosum in two and Trichophyton violaceum in one) and Candida spp. in 16, associated with Trichophyton rubrum in two. Moulds were isolated in three children (Fusarium oxysporum in one, Scopulariopsis brevicaulis in another and Aspergillus fumigatus associated with Trichophyton rubrum in a third). The commonest features were distal and distolateral subungual hyperkeratosis in dermatophyte infections (93%) and onychodystrophy and paronychia in Candida infections (56% and 50% respectively). Forty patients achieved clinical and mycological recovery. It is appropriate to suspect onychomycosis in children, perform microbiological diagnosis and undertake early treatment. An approach of this kind may help to prevent nail dystrophy and the spread of infection. [source] Myopexy (Faden) results in more postoperative vomiting after strabismus surgery in childrenACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 1 2001M. Saiah Background: Strabismus correction in children is associated with a high incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting. The purpose of this prospective, double-blind study was to examine the influence of the surgical method for correction of squint on the incidence of postoperative vomiting. Methods: One hundred and twenty consecutive children aged 2,12 years, scheduled for elective strabismus surgery, were enrolled in this prospective, double-blind study. A standardised total intravenous anaesthesia was given to all children. The development of perioperative oculocardiac reflex was noted and the number of episodes of vomiting during the first 48 h postoperatively was recorded. At the completion of the study, the children who were operated with myopexy according to Faden, were allocated to a Faden group, those without a myopexy to the non-Faden group. All the patients included in this study were operated on by the same surgeon with standardised techniques. Results: The Faden group was younger, lighter and the operation time was longer (P<0.05). The incidence of vomiting was greater in the Faden group; 53% versus 12% (P<0.05). The incidence of oculocardiac reflex was similar in both groups; 40% in the Faden versus 28% in the non-Faden group, respectively. The total dose of propofol and alfentanil was similar between the groups. Requirement of analgesics for postoperative pain was similar in both groups. The only independent risk factor for postoperative vomiting was the Faden operation. Conclusion: The surgical method used for strabismus correction in children has a great influence on the incidence of postoperative vomiting. The Faden operation is associated with a very high incidence of postoperative vomiting; this particular group of patients has to be considered as a high risk group for postoperative vomiting and deserves an antiemetic prophylaxis. [source] An acute pain service improves postoperative pain management for children undergoing selective dorsal rhizotomyPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 12 2009CHANTAL FRIGON MSC MD Summary Background:, A continuous epidural infusion of morphine is the pain treatment modality for children undergoing selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) in our institution. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of having an organized acute pain service (APS) on postoperative pain management of these children. Methods:, We conducted a retrospective cohort study using anesthetic records and the APS database to compare the postoperative pain management of children undergoing SDR before and after the introduction of the APS at the Montreal Children's Hospital in April 2001. Ninety-two consecutive children who had their surgery between January 1997 and July 2006 were included. We collected data regarding postoperative pain, opioid-induced side effects, complications (sedation, desaturations < 92%), and hospital length of stay. Results:, Pain scores were documented more frequently after the implementation of the APS (61% vs 48.5%). Sedation scores were documented only after the implementation of the APS. Postoperative desaturation was significantly more frequent in the pre-APS group compared to the APS group (45.5% vs 6.8%, P < 0.001). Despite the fact that the epidural catheter was in place for the same duration for both groups [median of 3 days (3,3 25,75%ile)], the duration of hospitalization was 1 day shorter in the APS group compared to the pre-APS group [median of 5 (5,5 25,75%ile) vs 6 (5,6 25,75%ile) days, P < 0.001]. Conclusions:, Although we recognize that it is possible that there were changes in care not related specifically to the introduction of a dedicated APS that occurred in our institution that resulted in improvements in general postoperative care and in length of stay, our study did show that having an organized APS allowed to significantly decrease the incidence of postoperative oxygen desaturation and to decrease the hospital length of stay by 1 day. [source] Risk factors for readmission after initial diagnosis in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia,PEDIATRIC BLOOD & CANCER, Issue 3 2008Tamra L. Slone MD Abstract Background Specific hospital discharge criteria following the initial diagnosis of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have not been reported. This retrospective cohort study was designed to identify risk factors for readmission during induction therapy, to assist with development of discharge guidelines. Procedure We reviewed the records of 142 consecutive children with newly diagnosed B-precursor ALL and found 129 eligible patients. Chi square, t -test, and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to compare differences in absolute neutrophil count (ANC), NCI risk status, age, type of corticosteroid administered, and other potential risk factors for readmission during induction therapy. Results ANC at initial hospital discharge was the only significant predictor of readmission for fever during induction therapy (P,=,0.006) by multivariate analysis. Specifically an ANC ,200/mm3 at discharge had the strongest association with readmission for fever (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.422, 7.729). Conclusion An ANC >200/mm3, in a clinically stable patient, is associated with minimal risk of readmission during induction therapy following the initial diagnosis of ALL. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;51:375,379. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Liver histology after current intensified therapy for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: microvesicular fatty change and siderosis are the main findingsPEDIATRIC BLOOD & CANCER, Issue 3 2003Päivi Halonen MD Abstract Background During modern intensified therapy for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) serum liver enzymes reach fairly high levels. Since no recent data on liver histopathology after therapy are available, we conducted a study of the subject. Procedure Liver biopsy specimens were evaluated and serum liver function tests and lipid profiles measured from 27 consecutive children, aged 3.5,17.6 years, treated according to the regimens for standard (SR) and intermediate risk (IR) ALL. Results None of the patients had entirely normal liver histology. Fatty infiltration was detected in 25 out of 27 (93%) and siderosis in 19 out of 27 patients (70%). Fourteen (52%) had both. Three (11%) also had mild portal and/or periportal fibrosis in addition to fatty change and siderosis. Fatty change was mainly microvesicular. Siderosis was in most cases grade II/IV to III/IV (in 16/19 or 84%). No hepatitis or cirrhosis was found. Serum total and LDL-cholesterol levels were higher in the patients with fibrosis than in the patients with fatty change (P,=,0.036, P,=,0.042) or with siderosis,±,fatty change (P,=,0.036, P,=,0.042). In serial ALT measurements a value of 300 U/L or more was oftener reached in the fibrosis than in the fatty change or siderosis groups (in 33 vs. in 12 or in 4% of the measurements, respectively, P,=,0.014, in Kruskall,Wallis test). Conclusions Microvesicular fatty change and siderosis are the main liver findings after current therapy for childhood ALL. Fibrosis occurs rarely. High values in serial serum ALT measurements repeatedly or a disturbed serum lipid profile may facilitate decisions about the need for a liver biopsy. Med Pediatr Oncol 2003;40:148,154. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Contact Sensitization in 1094 Children Undergoing Patch Testing over a 7-Year PeriodPEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2005Stefania Seidenari M.D. However, because exposure to sensitizing agents varies rapidly, it is of utmost importance to perform a periodic evaluation of patch test results. Our purpose was to compare our data on contact sensitization in children during the past 7 years to our previous 1988,1994 findings, in order to identify emerging allergens and update our pediatric series. From 1995 to 2001, 1094 consecutive children were examined. Of these, 997 patients were patch tested with our pediatric series, which includes 30 allergens, whereas 97 underwent patch testing with 46 allergens. A total of 570 children proved allergic (52.1%). The highest sensitization rate was observed in children under 3 years of age. No differences between atopic dermatitis patients and nonatopic ones were observed in the sensitization rate. Neomycin, nickel, wool alcohols, thimerosal, and ammoniated mercury gave most of the positive responses. With respect to 1988,1995 data, allergy to substances such as neomycin, nickel, wool alcohols, thimerosal, ammoniated mercury, propolis, potassium dichromate, and thiuram mix proved more frequent. In conclusion, as sensitization rates to different allergens show great variations over time, periodic evaluations of patch test results in children is necessary in order to update the test trays. [source] Pressure volume curves of paediatric laryngeal mask airwaysANAESTHESIA, Issue 5 2009C. J. Wallace Summary Hyperinflation of the laryngeal mask airway cuff may exert high pressure on pharyngeal and laryngeal structures. In vitro data show that high intra cuff pressures may occur when inflated to only 30% of the manufacturer's recommended maximum inflation volume. We prospectively assessed the pressure volume curves of paediatric sized laryngeal mask airways (size 1,3) in 240 consecutive children (0,15 years). Following laryngeal mask airway insertion the cuff was inflated with 1-ml increments of air up to the maximum recommended by the manufacturer. After each ml cuff pressure was measured. At the end all cuff pressures were adjusted to 55 cmH2O. The maximum recommended volume resulted in high intracuff pressures in all laryngeal mask airway brands and sizes studied. Approximately half the maximum volume produced a cuff pressure , 60 cmH2O. This occurred in all brands and all sizes studied. We recommend that cuff manometers should be used to guide inflation in paediatric laryngeal mask airways. [source] COMPLICATIONS OF INTERNAL FIXATION IN PAEDIATRIC FRACTURESANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 10 2007Audi B. Widjaja Background: Most displaced fractures in children can be managed by closed treatment. Internal fixation of fractures is sometimes required to achieve satisfactory reduction with certain fractures. The aim of this study was to document the rate of complications associated with internal fixation of fractures in the paediatric age group. Methods: A retrospective study was carried out on 268 consecutive children who had internal fixation of fractures from January 2000 to July 2004. The complications were categorized as major or minor. Results: The average age was 9.2 years (range, 1.4,16.9). There were 327 fractures. Fifty-nine children had fractures of two bones. Humeral fractures accounted for 45.7% of fractures, forearm fractures 31.3%, tibial and fibular fractures 14.1% and femoral fractures 4.9%. There were 27 children (10%) with major complications and 49 children (18%) with minor complications. There were 18 children (6.7%) with both major and minor complications. A total of 66 (24.6%) children had complications. There were 23 children (8.5%) requiring further surgery. Conclusions: In this study, 24.6% of children had complications associated with internal fixation. The risk of complications should be considered when electing to proceed with surgical treatment. Closed treatment should always be attempted in children unless there is a good indication for internal fixation. [source] Renal damage in vesico-ureteric refluxBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 4 2004P. Caione OBJECTIVE To detect the different extent of renal parenchymal involvement in primary vesico-ureteric reflux (VUR), and to evaluate the relationship between VUR grade, patient age and different patterns of parenchymal damage. PATIENTS AND METHODS This blinded retrospective study included 197 consecutive children (mean age 4.26 years, range 1 month to 13 years) with primary VUR detected by voiding cysto-urethrography (VCUG), 99mTc-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA; 120 MBq/1.73 m2) renal scintigraphy, with scanning for 3 h after intravenous injection. An abnormal DMSA scan was classified into three subtypes: cortical defects as a single scar (SS), multiple cortical scarring (MS) and diffuse reduced uptake with small renal size. Renal absolute uptake (AU), and split-kidney relative uptake were evaluated in refluxing and nonrefluxing renal units, and correlated with parenchymal damage and patient age. Student's t -test and the chi-square test were used for the statistical analysis. RESULTS In all, 282 refluxing and 112 nonrefluxing units were assessed. Renal damage was detected in 188 of 282 units with VUR (67%) and in 18 of 112 (16%) contralateral nonrefluxing kidneys. The mean AU was 18.7% in kidneys with VUR and 29% in nonrefluxing units (P < 0.001). The mean (sd) AU decreased from lower to higher grades of VUR, i.e. grade 0 VUR (group A), 28.97 (9.71); grade 1,3 (group B), 21.28 (8.33); grade 4,5 (group C), 14.78 (8.02). The differences were statistically significant (A vs B, B vs C, both P < 0.001). Renal damage was differently distributed in the three groups: 69 of 109 kidneys (63%) in group C (MS prevalent), 39 of 173 (22.5%) in group B (SS prevalent) and 17 of 112 (15.2%) in group A. There was no significant difference in the distribution of renal damage subtypes in patients aged <,or >,2 years (SS 19.6% vs 17.9%, MS 29.6% vs 30.1%, small size 48.2% vs 46.3%). The VUR was severe (group C) in 65% of patients aged <,2 years and in 46% aged >,2 years (chi-square, P= 0.016). CONCLUSIONS VUR is commonly associated with renal damage. Age (< or >,2 years) did not significantly influence the kidney lesion subtype. Reduced parenchymal function (AU) progressively decreased with the severity of VUR. Focal MS, reduced size and relative uptake were significantly more common in severe VUR, leading to multifocal lesions and hypo-dysplasia. Renal scarring was present in up to 15% of contralateral nonrefluxing kidneys. Severe VUR behaved differently from lesser VUR in the renal scan parenchymal uptake. [source] Valproic acid and phenobarbital blood levels during the first month of treatment with the ketogenic dietACTA NEUROLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2010G. Coppola Coppola G, Verrotti A, D'Aniello A, Arcieri S, Operto FF, Della Corte R, Ammendola E, Pascotto A. Valproic acid and phenobarbital blood levels during the first month of treatment with the ketogenic diet. Acta Neurol Scand: 2010: 122: 303,307. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Objective,,, The aim of this study was to assess how the ketogenic diet influences the blood levels of antiepileptic drugs in the first month of treatment in a pediatric population with drug-resistant epilepsy. Methods,,, The plasma concentrations of antiepileptic drugs were investigated in an open study on 36 consecutive children and adolescents (20 males), aged between 6 months and 16 years (mean age 4.7 years), who were put on the ketogenic diet because of medically refractory epilepsy. The plasma levels of antiepileptic drugs were determined 30 days and immediately before the diet and on days 8, 15, 22 and 29 after the start of the diet. The daily dose of each drug was not changed during the first month of treatment, while the daily dose of benzodiazepines was reduced by up to 30% if excessive sedation or drowsiness occurred. Results,,, While plasma concentrations of phenobarbital did not change in the first month on the ketogenic diet (mean increase of 2.3 mg/l ± 1.0), valproic acid showed a slight but not significant decrease (mean decresase of 6.7 mg/l ± 3.2), 2 weeks after the start of the diet. Conclusions,,, Adjustments in the daily dose of either drug before the start of the diet do not however appear to be justified. [source] Valproate in children with newly diagnosed idiopathic generalized epilepsyACTA NEUROLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 3 2010K. D. Holland Holland KD, Monahan S, Morita D, Vartzelis G, Glauser TA. Valproate in children with newly diagnosed idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Acta Neurol Scand: 2010: 121: 149,153. © 2009 The Authors Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Munksgaard. Objectives,,, Sparse information on dose,response characteristics for initial antiepileptic drug monotherapy in children with idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) is available. The aim of this study is to characterize the therapeutic dose of valproate in children with newly diagnosed IGE. Materials and methods,,, Effect of initial valproate monotherapy and doses associated with seizure freedom were examined in consecutive children with IGE identified from a New Onset Seizure Clinic. Results,,, Of 84 patients identified, 48 (57%) became seizure-free on valproate monotherapy and another 10 patients became seizure-free but discontinued VPA because of adverse effects. The mean dose in seizure-free children was 15.7 mg/kg/day and over 95% of IGE patients will respond below 25 mg/kg/day. Conclusions,,, Half of children became seizure-free on valproate monotherapy and did so at modest doses. [source] Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome: Relation with desmoplastic medulloblastoma in infancyCANCER, Issue 3 2003A population-based study, review of the literature Abstract BACKGROUND Patients with nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) are believed to be predisposed to develop early-onset neoplasms including medulloblastomas (MB). The desmoplastic subtype of MB is associated most commonly with NBCCS. The goals of this study were to demonstrate the relation between desmoplastic MB and NBCCS and to evaluate the concomitant diagnosis of NBCCS and MB. METHODS The medical records of 76 consecutive children who received surgical treatment for MB between 1970 and 2000 were studied. A review of the literature was performed based on the National Library of Medicine database and bibliographies of selected articles were scanned. RESULTS The authors reported three patients with NBCCS who received surgical treatment for an MB during infancy. The literature review identified 33 patients with NBCCS who were treated for MB at a mean age of 28 months. The desmoplastic subtype was the only histopathologic subtype of MB reported in the NBCCS population. Although patients with NBCCS are predisposed to develop multiple basal cell carcinomas and intracranial tumors in the field of irradiation, the prognosis for syndromic MBs was much better compared with the prognosis for sporadic MBs. CONCLUSIONS Patients with NBCCS have an increased risk for other malignancies, especially radiation-induced neoplasms. Early diagnosis of this syndrome is important for the selection of appropriate adjuvant treatment and family genetic counseling. The authors did not advocate the use of radiotherapy as an adjuvant treatment in desmoplastic MB diagnosed in children younger than 5 years of age. They suggested that the desmoplastic subtype of MB in children younger than 2 years of age is a major diagnostic criterion for the diagnosis of NBCCS. Cancer 2003;98:618,24. © 2003 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.11537 [source] Outcome after treatment of congenital bilateral cataractACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 6 2002Anna Lundvall ABSTRACT. Purpose:, To evaluate long-term functional outcome after treatment of dense congenital bilateral cataract. Methods:, The records of 22 consecutive children operated on before the age of 12 months at St. Erik's Eye Hospital over a 5-year period (1991,96) were reviewed retrospectively. Linear Snellen visual acuity (VA) at last check, presence of stereoacuity, nystagmus, strabismus and other complications are accounted for. Subject age at last check ranged from 4 to 9 years. Results:, Visual acuity could be estimated in 19 children: the median VA of the better eye was 0.4 (range: counting fingers , 0.8) and of the fellow eye 0.15 (range: amaurosis , 0.8). In nine otherwise healthy children who were operated on early (by 1 month of age), VA varied from 0.4 to 0.8 in the better eye. Four of these children achieved stereopsis. Pupillary block glaucoma developed in five eyes (in three children). Chronic glaucoma developed in eight eyes (in five children). Glaucoma occurred predominantly in children who underwent cataract extraction during the first week of life. Two of the latter had marked microphthalmos. Conclusion:, Good postoperative VA was achieved in most healthy children with dense bilateral congenital cataract when surgery was performed early (before 6,8 weeks of age). Chronic glaucoma developed predominantly when cataract extraction was performed during the first week of life. [source] Evaluation of faecal calprotectin as a valuable non-invasive marker in distinguishing gut pathogens in young children with acute gastroenteritisACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 9 2010Josef Sýkora Abstract Aim:, The aim of the study is to evaluate faecal calprotectin (f-CP) in children ,3 years of age with acute gastroenteritis (AG) as an early predictor of bacterial inflammation. Methods:, We prospectively analysed f-CP levels and diagnostic workup in 107 consecutive children (66 AG, 41 controls). Results:, Children with bacterial AG (BAG) was found to have higher diarrheal frequency (p < 0.01), fever (p < 0.01), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (p < 0.001), white blood count (p < 0.01) and C-reactive protein (CRP) (p < 0.001) compared with viral AG (VAG). Vomiting was frequent in VAG (p < 0.001). f-CP negatively correlated with age in controls (r = ,0.5998). BAG demonstrated significantly higher f-CP levels [median, 219 ,g/g, interquartile range (IQR): 119,350.2] compared with VAG (49.3 ,g/g, IQR: 8.8,131.1) as well as controls (26.5 ,g/g, IQR: 14.9,55.1) (p < 0.001). VAG and control f-CP levels were similar. f-CP was the best-rated marker of BAG with a diagnostic accuracy of 92%. Receiver,operator characteristic analysis revealed an area under curve of 0.95 for identifying BAG; sensitivity and specificity of f-CP were 93% and 88%, respectively, at an adjusted cut-off point of 103.9 ,g/g faeces. Combined f-CP and CRP yield improved diagnostic accuracy of 94% for BAG. Conclusion:, f-CP facilitates early discrimination between bacterial and viral causes of AG in young children. Combining f-CP with CRP increases the diagnostic power of diagnosing BAG. [source] When to image neurologically normal children with headaches: development of a decision ruleACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 6 2010MAS Ahmed Abstract Aims:, The aim of this study was to develop and refine a decision rule on when to undertake brain imaging (BI) in neurologically normal children with headaches. Methods:, From the literature and a questionnaire study, a list of red flags (RFs) was drawn-up. During the prospective 4-year period, consecutive children with headache were classified according to RFs and the headache diagnosis. Result:, Three of 709 (0.4%) neurologically normal children had significant brain abnormalities. BI was carried out in 389 of 498 (78%) children with RFs. Significant abnormalities were found in three of 389 children (0.8%), all had unclassified headache (UH). BI was not arranged for the 211 children with no RFs. None of these developed RFs or abnormal signs on follow-up for a mean of 13 months. Conclusion:, In addition to BI for those with neurological signs, we think BI should be considered for neurologically normal patients with UH and RFs. This would have saved imaging children needlessly: only 101 of 709 (14%) would have had scans arranged, instead of 389 of 709. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||