While heart disease is traditionally associated with adults, pediatric patients face a number of cardiac conditions that can impact their health.
"The most common pediatric cardiac condition is a congenital heart defect - a structural problem in the heart that can range from small holes between heart chambers to the absence of entire chambers or valves in the heart," said Robert Mangano, M.D., Director, Pediatric Cardiology, Geisinger Health System.
According to the American Heart Association, approximately 36,000 babies are born each year with congenital heart defects.
"Congenital defects are present at birth and are usually formed soon after conception, sometimes before the mother knows she is pregnant," Dr. Mangano said. "Research is being done to determine how much of a role genetics play in the development of defects, but there is no consensus explanation for why congenital heart defects occur."
Severe cases are characterized by low blood pressure, difficulty breathing or feeding, or poor weight gain, and are generally diagnosed a few months after birth, according to Dr. Mangano. Minor defects don't always cause symptoms, and they can be diagnosed during routine check-ups, he added. Sometimes heart defects can be detected in utero, allowing for treatment to begin soon after birth.
"Children with minor defects routinely survive into adulthood, and live normal and comfortable lives," Dr. Mangano said. "Patients with severe defects, however, may require specialized treatment, which can include medication or surgery."
Specific treatment options can vary widely depending on the severity of the defect. "Therefore, a consultation with a pediatric cardiologist is vital in developing a treatment strategy," Dr. Mangano said. Most patients are able to overcome their defect and live healthy lives, he added.
Other pediatric heart conditions include Kawasaki disease and rheumatic fever. Unlike congenital heart defects, these diseases develop after birth.