Main Article Content
Childhood dilated cardiomyopathy in Jos, Nigeria
Abstract
Objective: to study the pattern of childhood dilated cardiomyopathy in Jos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
Methodology: Paediatric echocardiography records (January 2000 to June 2002 2 and ½ years) were reviewed and cases of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) identified. Clinical, radiologic, electro- and echocardiographic data of identified cases were reviewed.
Results: childhood DCM (6 cases) was the commonest acquired heart condition diagnosed in children under the age of 5 years. Four patients presented with recurrent episodes of congestive heart failure (CHF) while 2 presented during their first episode. DCM was initially considered in only 1 child. Another child suffered a cerebro-vascular accident (CVA) before the diagnosis was made.
Conclusions: DCM should be considered early in young children with long-standing or recurrent CHF. A high index of suspicion, early diagnosis and appropriate management should reduce morbidity, prevent complications and prolong survival.
Sahel Medical Journal Vol. 8(4) 2005: 100-105
Methodology: Paediatric echocardiography records (January 2000 to June 2002 2 and ½ years) were reviewed and cases of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) identified. Clinical, radiologic, electro- and echocardiographic data of identified cases were reviewed.
Results: childhood DCM (6 cases) was the commonest acquired heart condition diagnosed in children under the age of 5 years. Four patients presented with recurrent episodes of congestive heart failure (CHF) while 2 presented during their first episode. DCM was initially considered in only 1 child. Another child suffered a cerebro-vascular accident (CVA) before the diagnosis was made.
Conclusions: DCM should be considered early in young children with long-standing or recurrent CHF. A high index of suspicion, early diagnosis and appropriate management should reduce morbidity, prevent complications and prolong survival.
Sahel Medical Journal Vol. 8(4) 2005: 100-105
