Evaluation of patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit due to neurological problems

INTRODUCTION

Pediatric neurology intensive care is a branch developing out of pediatric intensive care and pediatric neurology. Principal objective of this study was to produce a profile of patients admitted to pediatric intensive care unit due to neurological problems and to identify the major etiologies most commonly leading to mortality.

METHODS

We enrolled 293 patients admitted for neurological reasons from among 2843 patients hospitalized in our hospital’s pediatric intensive care unit over the 3-year period between 2011 and 2013. Patients’ etiologies, comorbidities, and dates of admission to the pediatric intensive care unit and of discharge were analysed.

RESULTS

The most common neurological morbidity was convulsion in 39% (n=114) of cases. Neurological problems were the sole cause of admission in 186 (63.7%) cases, while 106 (36.3%) patients had a comorbid condition in addition to neurological problems. The most common of these comorbidities was infection at 68.8% (n=73). One hundred sixteen (39.7%) were discharged in a healthy condition, while abnormal neurological findings were present in 131 (44.9%). Mortality occurred in 28 (9.6%) patients. Respiratory problems were the most common cause of death. They are an important cause of admissions to the pediatric intensive care unit and of mortality, particularly in the under 3 age group.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Neurological problems constitute a significant group in pediatric intensive care. They are an important cause of admission to the pediatric intensive care unit and of mortality, particularly in the under 3 years of age. Effective treatment of infections can reduce mortality rates.