Journal article
Growth Failure in Children with Congenital Heart Disease
Children (Basel), Vol.12(5), 616
05/09/2025
DOI: 10.3390/children12050616
PMCID: PMC12110605
PMID: 40426795
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Growth failure is a common complication in children with congenital heart disease (CHD), yet its underlying mechanisms and consequences remain incompletely understood. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of growth failure in children with CHD and outline a framework of factors contributing to this condition. Methods: To lay the foundation for this narrative review, several databases were searched using broad search terms related to CHD and growth failure. Results: Growth failure is most pronounced during the first year of life, but often improves after achieving hemodynamic stability through surgical or medical interventions. However, children with complex conditions, such as single-ventricle physiology or multiple heart defects, may experience persistent growth impairment due to chronic disease effects. Specific features of CHD—cyanosis, pulmonary hypertension, and low cardiac output—can further hinder growth by disrupting endocrine function and impairing musculoskeletal development. Long-term use of medications and exposure to repeated diagnostic procedures also contribute to growth failure. Beyond physical effects, growth failure profoundly influences neurodevelopment, psychosocial well-being, and survival outcomes. Based on our review, we have developed a knowledge map to better understand the complexities of growth failure in children with CHD. Conclusions: A thorough understanding of the multifaceted contributors to growth failure in CHD is essential for identifying high-risk children and devising strategies to support optimal growth. Integrating this knowledge into clinical practice can improve long-term outcomes for children with CHD.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Growth Failure in Children with Congenital Heart Disease
- Creators
- Jihye Lee - Children's Hospital of Los AngelesTeresa Marshall - University of Iowa, Preventive and Community DentistryHarleah Buck - University of IowaMulder Pamela - University of IowaSandra Daack-Hirsch - University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- Children (Basel), Vol.12(5), 616
- DOI
- 10.3390/children12050616
- PMID
- 40426795
- PMCID
- PMC12110605
- NLM abbreviation
- Children (Basel)
- ISSN
- 2227-9067
- eISSN
- 2227-9067
- Publisher
- MDPI
- Language
- English
- Date published
- 05/09/2025
- Academic Unit
- Preventive and Community Dentistry; Nursing; Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center
- Record Identifier
- 9984823074702771
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