Distribution and Characteristics of the Heart Disease in Pediatric Age Group in Southern Iran

Background: The spectrum of heart diseases among pediatric age group may be different between communities and, in this connection there is no documented report from Iran. Patients and Methods: We studied cardiac problems among Iranian pediatric age group referred to the pediatric cardiology and cardiac surgery out-patient clinic, in a tertiary center for possibility of heart disease. Results: Of 2341 patients, aged from 1 day to 16 years referred, during 2001 and 2003, to the above center, 1817 (77.6%) patients had cardiac diseases. The most common reason for referrals was abnormal heart sounds on routine physical examination (49%). Congenital heart diseases (CHD) were the most frequent cardiac problems (76.1%), followed by mitral valve prolaps (8.3%) and rheumatic cardiac involvement including sub-clinical findings (7.9%). Other significant disturbances were associated chromosomal abnormalities, genetic disorders, and electrical and conduction problems. Conclusion: Although rheumatic carditis has very low incidence compared with congenital heart diseases (nearly 1/10), it is still a significant problem in this region and a planning for its better prevention is essential.