The unconscious child
Coma A child who is deeply unconscious is said to be in coma. Encephalopathy refers to the precomatose state with an altered conscious level. An unconscious child requires urgent and…
Weight faltering and failure to thrive
Concern about growth is usually raised when: Weight is below the 2nd centile Height is below the 2nd centile Or when height or weight cross down two centiles. Growth and…
Rashes—types of skin lesions
It is not uncommon for children to present with an unusual rash or for parents to be concerned about skin lesions or birthmarks on a child’s skin. In some cases…
Leukaemia and childhood cancer
Malignant disease affects about 1 in 600 people during childhood (1 per 10 000 children per year). The commonest malignancies are acute leukaemia and central nervous system (CNS) tumours. Overall,…
Acute abdominal pain
Acute abdominal pain is very common. It is important to quickly assess whether surgical intervention is required, as some important surgical conditions present as an acute abdomen. Acute Appendicitis This…
Anaemia and pallor
Iron Deficiency Anaemia In early childhood the combination of a high demand for iron to keep up with rapid growth and a poor intake of iron-rich foods makes iron deficiency…
