Track 28: Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology

Sub Topics of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology:
CongenitalAnomalies, PediatricTumors, PerinatalInfections, NeonatalPathology, PediatricHematopathology, DevelopmentalDisorders, PediatricNeuropathology, PediatricPulmonaryPathology, FetalPathology, PerinatalAsphyxia, NeonatalHemolysis, InflammatoryBowelDiseaseInChildren, PediatricEndocrinePathology, GeneticDisordersInPediatrics, PediatricCardiacPathology, PediatricRenalPathology, PediatricInfectiousDiseases, GrowthDisorders, PediatricPathologyResearch, SIDS (SuddenInfantDeathSyndrome), MaternalHealthEffectsOnFetus, PediatricLiverPathology, PediatricGastrointestinalPathology, NeonatalJaundice, PediatricSkinDiseases

Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology is a specialized field of pathology that focuses on the study of diseases and conditions affecting infants, children, and the perinatal period (the time shortly before and after birth). This branch of pathology involves understanding congenital anomalies, developmental disorders, and diseases that may arise during infancy and childhood.

Key Areas of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology:

Congenital Anomalies:

Structural Defects: Malformations such as congenital heart defects, spina bifida, and cleft lip/palate.

Chromosomal Abnormalities: Disorders like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Turner syndrome.

Pediatric Tumors:

Wilms Tumor: A common kidney cancer in children.

Neuroblastoma: A cancer that develops from immature nerve cells, usually in the adrenal glands.

Retinoblastoma: A malignant tumor of the retina, typically affecting young children.

Perinatal Infections:

Infections during Pregnancy: Such as congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV), toxoplasmosis, and rubella.

Neonatal Sepsis: Bacterial infection occurring in newborns, often from maternal transmission.

Neonatal Pathology:

Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS): A condition affecting premature infants due to insufficient surfactant in the lungs.

Neonatal Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high bilirubin levels.

Developmental Disorders:

Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Growth Disorders: Issues like failure to thrive and obesity.

Pediatric Hematopathology:

Anemias: Conditions affecting red blood cell production and survival.

Leukemias and Lymphomas: Blood cancers that can occur in children.

Pediatric Neuropathology:

Cerebral Malformations: Abnormal brain development, such as holoprosencephaly.

Childhood Epilepsy: Various types of epilepsy and their pathological basis.

Gastrointestinal Disorders:

Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC): A serious intestinal disease in premature infants.

Congenital Gastrointestinal Malformations: Such as esophageal atresia and gastroschisis.

Endocrine Disorders:

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): A genetic disorder affecting adrenal hormone production.

Thyroid Disorders: Including congenital hypothyroidism.

Maternal Health Effects:

Maternal Infections: Impact on fetal health, including effects of maternal diabetes and hypertension.

Placental Pathology: Examination of the placenta for conditions such as placental abruption and placenta previa.

Techniques in Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology:

Histopathology: Microscopic examination of tissue samples to diagnose diseases.

Immunohistochemistry: Use of antibodies to identify specific proteins in tissues.

Genetic Testing: Analysis for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders.

Importance:

Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology is essential for understanding the unique disease processes in children and infants. It aids in the early diagnosis and management of congenital and acquired conditions, ensuring appropriate medical care and intervention to improve health outcomes for the pediatric population.