Pattern of paediatric neurological emergencies in University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State of Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Neurological problems are responsible for a significant number of emergencies in children. Knowledge of its pattern is important for effective preventive strategies, healthcare planning and delivery.
Aim: To determine the pattern of paediatric neurological emergencies seen in University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo.
Method:  Health information records of children with paediatric neurological problems who presented in the Children's Emergency Unit (CHEU) of University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) over a two year period between January 2007 and December 2008 were retrieved. Data obtained were age, gender, diagnosis made, duration of hospitalisation and outcome.
Results: Of the one thousand eight hundred and thirty three (1833) patients seen during the study period, one hundred and ninety six (196) had neurological problems giving a prevalence rate of 10.7%. Majority (78.6%) of the patients were under the age of five years. Males were more affected with a male to female ratio of 1:0.75. The three commonest neurological emergencies encountered were febrile convulsion (42.3%), bacterial meningitis (21.9%) and cerebral malaria (17.9%). Duration of hospitalization ranged from one to thirty days with a mean of 4.5days. Mortality rate of 6.1% was recorded with cerebral malaria and bacterial meningitis responsible for 83.3% of the deaths.
Conclusion: Febrile convulsion is the commonest neurological emergency recorded in this study. Since malaria is the commonest cause of febrile convulsion in Nigerian children, its prevention and control could be achieved by provision and proper utilisation of insecticide treated nets as well as early diagnosis and treatment.