Epidemiological Profile and Diagnostic Aspects of Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Pathologies at the Renaissance University Hospital Center in N’Djamena, Chad

Authors: Aboubakar Assidick Taoussi * , Babou F , Attimer KA and Yusra AA

DOI: 10.23880/ooaj-16000303

Volume 10, Issue 1

Abstract

Background: Pediatric ENT pathologies form an important part that encompasses a wide range of medical conditions, primarily infections, which pose as a significant public health challenge. In developing countries like Chad, the absence of precise epidemiological data hampers the development of effective prevention and treatment strategies. The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiological profile and diagnostic aspects of pediatric ENT pathologies among patients at the Renaissance University Hospital Center in N’Djamena, Chad. Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional study which was conducted from January 2021 to December 2022. It included all children aged 0 to 17 years, who were consulted in the ENT department of the Renaissance University Hospital Center, whose parents had given their consent. Various ENT examinations, including audiometry, radiology and laboratory tests were performed according to patients’ symptoms. Results: This study had a prevalence of 25.1% of ENT pathologies among children, with a slight male predominance and a sex ratio of 1.3. The most affected children were aged 0 to 6 years, presenting symptoms such as hearing loss, otalgia, cough, and rhinorrhea. Common conditions included nasopharyngitis, tonsillitis, and various forms of otitis. Infections and inflammations accounted for 78.2% of cases. The ear was affected in 46.8% of cases, followed by the pharynx in 33.8% of cases. The peaks in the pathologies were observed in March, September and October. Children with atopic diseases were more susceptible to these conditions. Conclusion: The study highlights a high prevalence of ENT pathologies among children, with infectious and inflammatory conditions being the most common. Their occurrence is influenced by immunological, climatic, and social factors. The findings underscore the importance of prevention and appropriate management, considering local specificities.

Keywords: ENT pathologies; Children; N’Djamena; Chad

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