Clinical Profile of Congenital Heart Diseases in Children Above 1 Month of Age in Tertiary Health Care Settings

Background: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital anomaly and a major contributor to pediatric morbidity and mortality, particularly in developing countries. Delayed diagnosis beyond the neonatal period is common due to limited antenatal screening and awareness. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the clinical profile of CHD in children above one month of age and to assess their outcomes, including utilization of government health schemes. Material and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted over one year in a tertiary care center in Indore, India. A total of 100 children aged >1 month to 16 years with clinically diagnosed CHD were included using consecutive sampling. Detailed clinical evaluation, echocardiography, and relevant investigations were performed. Outcomes, complications, and utilization of government health schemes were assessed. Results: The majority of cases presented in infancy (78%) with male predominance (59%). Acyanotic CHD was more common (66%), with ventricular septal defect being the most frequent lesion, while Tetralogy of Fallot predominated among cyanotic CHD. Respiratory symptoms such as fast breathing (82%) and cough (70%) were the most common presentations. Malnutrition was prevalent in 79% of children. Pneumonia (55%) and congestive cardiac failure (26%) were the major complications. Most patients (85%) were registered under RBSK/Ayushman schemes. Mortality was 25%, higher in cyanotic CHD (32.4%) compared to acyanotic CHD (21.2%). Conclusion: CHD beyond the neonatal period remains a major health concern with significant morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis, improved antenatal screening, nutritional support, and strengthening referral systems and pediatric cardiac services are essential to improve outcomes.

Keywords: Congenital heart disease, Acyanotic CHD, Cyanotic CHD, Pediatric cardiology.