Spectrum of Paediatric Cardiac Diseases Recorded in a Private Echocardiography Centre in Makurdi, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63270/njp.v52i4.2000033Keywords:
Cardiac disease, Congenital heart disease, Rheumatic heart disease, Dilated cardiomyopathyAbstract
Background: Cardiac diseases contribute significantly to childhood morbidity and mortality with varying patterns across the globe.
Objective: To determine the spectrum and pattern of cardiac diseases among children in Makurdi, Nigeria.
Methods: A retrospective study of 206 children who had echocardiography over 57 months (October 2020-July 2025) was conducted.
Results: Almost three-quarters (71.8%) had abnormal findings, with 85.8% being congenital heart diseases (CHD). Atrial Septal Defect, Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Ventricular Septal Defect were the leading defects. Acquired heart diseases constituted 12.8% with rheumatic heart disease and dilated cardiomyopathy being the most prevalent.
Conclusion: Congenital heart disease remains predominant in this setting, and there is an urgent need for improved paediatric cardiac services.
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