Pediatric pulmonology refers to a medical field that encompasses various issues related to the respiratory system, lungs, and chest cage in children. These diseases can often affect the respiratory passages, lungs, and chest cage. The range of diseases in this area for children can be broad, impacting every age group. For example, asthma is a common chest disease in children. This condition can lead to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing due to inflammation and constriction of the airways. Respiratory infections are also frequently encountered chest diseases in children, including infections like bronchitis and pneumonia, which can cause respiratory system issues.
Congenital heart anomalies or other congenital conditions can lead to chest diseases in children. Genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis can affect the respiratory system, causing chest problems in children. Allergic reactions and exposure to respiratory irritants can also trigger chest diseases in children. Diagnosis and treatment of pediatric chest diseases are generally conducted by a pediatric chest disease specialist. The specialist evaluates the child's health history, conducts a physical examination, and administers various diagnostic tests as needed. Treatment for pediatric chest diseases varies depending on the type and severity of the disease and often includes medication, respiratory therapy, or other medical interventions.
Pediatric cardiovascular surgery and cardiology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and management of heart and vascular system issues in children from the prenatal period to 18 years of age. This field primarily addresses congenital heart diseases, abnormalities in heart valves, vascular anomalies, and other cardiovascular problems in children.
Congenital heart diseases involve structural abnormalities in the heart and vascular system in children. These conditions are often noticeable from birth, and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Pediatric cardiologists assess these diseases in children through detailed cardiac examinations and imaging tests, determining appropriate treatment plans.
Pediatric cardiovascular surgery covers the surgical treatment of heart and vascular diseases requiring intervention in children. Conditions like congenital heart defects, vascular blockages, and heart valve diseases may necessitate surgical intervention. Surgical treatments may include heart surgeries, open-heart surgeries, or minimally invasive surgical methods.
Bone marrow transplantation in children is a complex medical procedure commonly used as a treatment option for conditions such as blood cancers, genetic diseases, or other serious blood disorders. This transplant aims to replace damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow cells transferred from a donor (usually a family member, sibling, or unrelated donor). The first stage involves collecting healthy bone marrow cells from the donor, mostly through a special needle inserted into the hip bone. This procedure often uses general anesthesia or sedation, and it can take approximately an hour.
The collected bone marrow cells can be obtained through a process called apheresis or direct bone marrow aspiration. Subsequently, the harvested cells are processed appropriately and prepared for transplantation. If the recipient child's bone marrow has been damaged or diseased due to previous intensive chemotherapy or radiation treatments, the goal of this procedure is to eliminate diseased cells and replace them with healthy cells.
The transplant process involves administering healthy bone marrow cells to the recipient child, usually through intravenous infusion. At this point, antibiotics and other supportive medications are often used to support the weakened immune system due to pre-transplant intensive treatments. The follow-up process involves monitoring the child's recovery and the integration of new bone marrow cells into the recipient's system.
Pediatric nephrology is a medical specialization that focuses on examining and treating diseases related to the kidneys and urinary tract in children. Generally managed by doctors specialized in various issues such as congenital kidney anomalies, urinary tract infections, kidney inflammations, kidney stones, and kidney failure. Congenital kidney anomalies are a commonly addressed topic in pediatric nephrology, including polycystic kidney disease, kidney cysts, and urological problems. Specialists work to ensure children grow up healthy by early diagnosis and implementing effective treatment plans for such conditions.
Another common topic in pediatric nephrology is urinary tract infections, prevalent health issues in children affecting both kidneys and urinary pathways. Pediatric nephrologists evaluate and manage children to prevent recurring infections, provide treatment, and preserve kidney health. Kidney inflammations, such as glomerulonephritis, are another significant aspect of pediatric nephrology, characterized by inflammation of kidney tissues that can negatively impact kidney functions. On the other hand, kidney stones are also assessed within pediatric nephrology, arising from factors like dehydration, urinary tract infections, or genetic factors.
Pediatric neurology is a medical specialization that examines and treats disorders related to the nervous system in children. This field covers a broad range of neurological issues in children, including congenital neurological conditions, epilepsy, migraines, neuromuscular disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), movement disorders like cerebral palsy, and autism spectrum disorder. Pediatric neurologists are healthcare professionals with specialized training and experience, tasked with evaluating these complex conditions, providing diagnoses, and minimizing the negative impact on children's lives through specific education and interventions.
Pediatric neurology often requires a multidisciplinary approach. The treatment process may involve medication, rehabilitation, special education programs, psychosocial support, and, if necessary, surgical interventions depending on the individual case. These specialists play a crucial role in educating and supporting patients and their families, as well as developing long-term management strategies. Pediatric neurology significantly contributes to monitoring neurological development in children, early problem detection, and enhancing children's quality of life through appropriate treatment methods.
Pediatric urology is a medical specialization that examines and treats problems related to the urinary and reproductive systems in children. This field encompasses various conditions such as congenital genitourinary anomalies, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, congenital defects in reproductive organs, and other urological issues in children. Pediatric urologists identify and manage these problems in children using a combination of surgical and medical treatment methods. They are responsible for early diagnosis of urological health issues in children, creating suitable treatment plans, and guiding families.
Treatment methods for pediatric urological issues are specific to the individual's condition and can include surgical interventions such as urinary tract reconstructions, kidney stone removal procedures, and corrections of genital system anomalies. Additionally, antibiotic treatment for urinary tract infections or urological infections, medical management for disorders controllable with medications, and other conservative treatment options may be utilized. Pediatric urologists inform both children and their families about diseases and treatment options in detail, supporting children in developing a healthy urological system and sustaining their well-being.
Pediatric orthopedics is a medical specialization that examines congenital or acquired disorders related to the musculoskeletal system in children. This field covers a wide range of orthopedic conditions in children, including genetic disorders, problems related to bone development, spine issues, congenital hip dysplasia, foot deformities, and traumatic injuries. Pediatric orthopedists specialize in early diagnosis of musculoskeletal issues in children, determining appropriate treatment methods, and ensuring that children grow up healthy.
Treatment methods in pediatric orthopedics vary depending on the individual case and the type of problem. For congenital disorders, treatments may include surgical interventions or conservative treatments like the use of orthoses and prostheses. For bone fractures or traumatic injuries, methods such as cast applications, surgical operations, and physical therapy may be employed. Pediatric orthopedists create treatment plans considering children's growth potential and bone development, guiding families in supporting children's healthy musculoskeletal system development.
Pediatric rheumatology is a medical specialization that examines autoimmune and joint diseases in children, aged 0-18. This field includes autoimmune diseases commonly found in children like juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile lupus erythematosus, and juvenile dermatomyositis, as well as systemic rheumatic conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus. Pediatric rheumatologists are specialists with specific training, tasked with diagnosing, treating, and managing complex diseases, minimizing the impact of symptoms on children's lives.
Comprehensive treatments in pediatric rheumatology usually involve a multidisciplinary approach. Medications may be used to regulate the immune system, control inflammation, and alleviate symptoms. Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be applied to maintain and strengthen joint mobility. Additionally, education and psychosocial support can assist children and families in coping with their diseases. Pediatric rheumatologists coordinate various methods to create individualized treatment plans, promoting normal development and enhancing the quality of life for children.
Pediatric physical therapy and rehabilitation is a medical discipline aimed at improving, strengthening, and restoring the physical functions of children who experience movement limitations due to various health issues. This process is mostly managed by a multidisciplinary team and involves the development of a customized treatment plan tailored to the individual needs of the child. Physical therapy sessions may include exercises, manual therapy, play-based activities, and other therapeutic methods designed based on the child's age, health condition, and specific needs. The focus is on helping the child gain independence in daily activities, build strength, and regain movement abilities, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation often cover various conditions. For example, congenital physical disorders, muscle diseases, sports injuries, post-surgery rehabilitation, and musculoskeletal issues are among the situations addressed. These treatments in children are conducted in close collaboration with families and are adapted to align with the child's developmental process. Additionally, the treatment process is supported by games and interactive methods to increase the child's motivation and make therapy enjoyable. Physical therapy and rehabilitation for children contribute to their empowerment, increased functional independence, and the adoption of a healthy lifestyle.
Bone marrow transplantation in children is usually successful if a suitable donor is found and appropriate care is provided. However, the results may be different in each case and the success rate depends on many factors.
Hydrocele is a condition in which excessive fluid accumulates in the membranes around the testicles and the testicles swell. Hydrocele in children can be congenital or develop later. It can be easily treated with early diagnosis and correct examination.
Hypertension in children is a condition that concerns pediatric nephrology. It occurs with symptoms such as headache, tinnitus, and visual disturbances in children. If hypertension is not treated at the right time, it may adversely affect the kidneys, and kidney failure may develop. It is recommended that children undergo screening once a year.
