Paediatrics

What is Paediatrics?

Paediatrics is the branch of medical specialty that focuses on the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. It involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders specific to the paediatric population.

Paediatric medicine encompasses various areas, including growth and development, nutrition, immunisations, and the management of acute and chronic illnesses in children. Paediatricians, or paediatric specialists, are specially trained doctors who address the unique healthcare needs of children and provide comprehensive medical care throughout all stages of childhood development. 

If your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to consult a paediatrician for proper medical evaluation and care:

• Recurrent blood-filled blisters in the mouth

• Blood clotting in the limbs (typically the legs), leading to swelling, redness, and warmth

• Unexplained fatigue or shortness of breath

• Frequent or increased infections

• Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck

• Bone pain

• Paleness

• Petechiae (a skin rash with pinpoint red spots caused by low platelet count)

• Swollen lymph nodes 

Common Paediatric Conditions

A significant aspect of paediatric care involves diagnosing and managing common childhood infections such as colds, influenza, and strep throat, as well as respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia.

Below is a list of common paediatric conditions frequently treated and managed by paediatricians.

Allergies and immunological disorders

• Allergic rhinitis

• Food allergies

• Hives

Infectious diseases

• Colds

• Flu

• Strep throat

• Gastroenteritis

Respiratory conditions

• Asthma

• Bronchiolitis

• Pneumonia

• Croup

Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) conditions

• Ear infections

• Tonsillitis

• Sinusitis

• Hearing loss

• Speech disorders

Gastrointestinal disorders

• Abdominal pain

• Diarrhoea

• Constipation

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis)

Dermatological conditions

• Eczema

• Acne

• Rashes

• Skin infections

• Birthmark evaluation

Ophthalmological conditions

• Vision problems

• Eye infections

• Congenital eye abnormalities

Endocrine disorders

• Diabetes

• Growth disorders

• Thyroid disorders

• Puberty-related concerns

• Adrenal gland disorders

Neurological conditions

• Epilepsy

• Migraines

• Developmental delays

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

• Cerebral palsy

• Autism spectrum disorders

Genetic and metabolic disorders

• Down syndrome

• Cystic fibrosis

• Inborn errors of metabolism

• Genetic syndromes

Cardiac conditions

• Congenital heart defects

• Heart murmurs

• Arrhythmias

• Hypertension

Musculoskeletal conditions

• Fractures

• Sprains

• Sports injuries

• Scoliosis 

• Developmental dysplasia of the hip

Haematological disorders

• Anaemia

• Bleeding disorders

• Sickle cell disease

• Leukaemia

Renal and urinary tract disorders

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Kidney stones

• Bedwetting

• Congenital kidney abnormalities 

Paediatric Procedures

Paediatric healthcare relies on a combination of preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures to support a child’s overall well-being. Preventive care is anchored by routine vaccinations and immunisations, which are essential for protecting children against serious infectious diseases.

To diagnose underlying conditions, paediatricians use a range of tests including standard blood and urine tests, along with advanced imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI. Organ-specific assessments are also commonly performed, such as electrocardiograms (ECG/EKG) to monitor heart activity and pulmonary function tests to evaluate lung health.

When medical treatment is needed, interventions are carefully tailored to the child’s age, condition, and developmental needs.

Below are key paediatric procedures offered at Prince Court Medical Centre (PCMC):

• Vaccinations and immunisations: Administering recommended vaccines to protect children against infectious diseases

• Blood tests: Collecting and analysing blood samples to evaluate various aspects of a child’s health, such as blood cell counts, glucose levels, and screening for genetic disorders

• Urine tests: Examining urine samples to assess kidney function, detect infections, or screen for underlying conditions

• Nebulisation: Delivering medication directly to the lungs in the form of a mist or aerosol; commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis

• Pulmonary function tests: Measuring lung performance through breathing tests to diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions

• Tympanostomy: Inserting small tubes into the eardrums to treat recurrent ear infections or chronic fluid build-up

• Wound care and suturing: Cleaning, dressing, and suturing wounds to promote healing and prevent infection

• Cast application and fracture management: Applying casts to immobilise and support healing of broken or fractured bones

• Imaging studies: Conducting diagnostic scans such as X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs to visualise internal structures and detect abnormalities

• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): Recording the heart’s electrical activity to evaluate heart function and identify abnormalities

One of the Best Child Clinic for Paediatrician in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Expertise and Specialisation

With renowned paediatricians who have established a strong reputation in the field, Prince Court Medical Centre is known for having experts who are well-accepted by kids. Paediatric patients require extra attention and patience. Our paediatricians have a natural ability to connect with children, making them feel at ease during medical visits. They use child-friendly language, engage them in interactive discussions about their health, and even incorporate games or toys into the examination process. This approach helps create a positive and comfortable experience for young patients.

Our paediatricians possess in-depth knowledge and understanding of the unique health conditions and challenges that children may face. This expertise enables them to effectively diagnose and manage a wide range of paediatric conditions. They are constantly staying abreast of the latest health issues, including seasonal influenza, hand-foot-mouth disease, and other diseases that commonly affect children. This ensures that they provide practical advice for both treatment and prevention. In addition, Prince Court Medical Centre is also a trusted destination for immunisation in Malaysia. Our paediatricians recognise the importance of immunisation in safeguarding children's health and preventing the spread of diseases. They stay up-to-date with the immunisation guidelines and recommendations set by the Ministry of Health Malaysia to ensure that children receive the appropriate vaccinations at the right time. By choosing Prince Court paediatricians, you can have peace of mind knowing that your child's immunisation needs will be met with expertise and adherence to the immunisation protocols in Malaysia. We are committed to keeping your child protected and promoting their overall well-being through immunisation.

Comprehensive Range of Paediatric Services

At Prince Court Medical Centre, we offer a comprehensive range of paediatric services to address the diverse healthcare needs of children. Our services encompass general paediatrics, pulmonary diseases, asthma and allergy management, diagnosis and management of inborn errors of metabolism, genetic counselling, critical and non-critical neonatology, paediatric ENT surgery, paediatric neurology, paediatric cardiology, and paediatric surgery. This extensive range of specialised services reflects our commitment to providing comprehensive care for children across various medical disciplines. With our paediatricians' expertise and dedication to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in paediatric medicine, you can trust that your child will receive high-quality care tailored to their specific needs at Prince Court Medical Centre.

Advanced Technology

Prince Court is also equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Its child specialist clinics are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and technology, allowing for accurate and efficient evaluations. For instance, we have digital X-ray machines specifically designed for paediatric patients, minimising radiation exposure and ensuring accurate imaging results. These facilities enable Prince Court paediatricians to provide comprehensive and precise care for children.

Multidisciplinary Approach

In addition to their expertise and advanced facilities, our paediatric specialists follow a multidisciplinary approach. They collaborate closely with other specialists and healthcare professionals within the hospital, forming a comprehensive healthcare team dedicated to your child's well-being. This approach ensures that all aspects of your child's health are considered, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation and management of complex paediatric conditions. For example, if a child with diabetes requires specialised care, the paediatrician will work closely with an endocrinologist, nutritionist, and other healthcare professionals to develop a holistic treatment plan.

Child-Friendly Environment

Additionally, Prince Court clinics are designed to be warm, cosy, and inviting, creating a supportive and nurturing environment that reduces the fear and anxiety children may experience during medical visits. The waiting area is furnished with colourful and child-friendly décor, and the examination rooms are equipped with toys, books, and soothing music. Additionally, the nursing staff at Prince Court paediatric clinics undergo specialised training in paediatric care, ensuring a gentle and caring approach to every interaction.