FREQUENCY AND PATTERN OF CONGENITAL HEART DEFECT IN INFANT OF DIABETIC MOTHERS AT GULAB DEVI HOSPITAL TEACHING HOSPITAL LAHORE

Abstract

Introduction: Infants born to diabetic mothers (IDMs) are at increased risk for structural and functional cardiac anomalies, including a range of congenital heart defects (CHDs). Early detection of CHDs in this high-risk group is crucial for timely management and improving outcomes. This study aimed to determine the frequency and pattern of CHDs among IDMs admitted to Gulab Devi Hospital, Lahore.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Pediatric Unit of Gulab Devi Hospital, Lahore, from March 2025 to June 2025. A total of 203 neonates aged 1 to 30 days born to diabetic mothers, meeting the inclusion criteria, were enrolled using non-probability consecutive sampling. Infants underwent detailed clinical examination, chest X-ray, ECG, and echocardiography performed by a pediatric cardiologist. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Chi-square test was used to assess associations, with p ≤0.05 considered significant.

Results: Among 203 infants, 102 (50.2%) male, 101 (49.8%) female, mean age 16.26±9.10 days, mean gestational age 38.35±1.09 weeks. Congenital heart defects (CHD) in 19 (9.4%): most common were patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in 7 (36.8%), patent foramen ovale (PFO) in 4 (21.1%). Other defects: atrial septal defect (ASD) 1 (5.3%), ventricular septal defect (VSD) 3 (15.8%), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) 2 (10.5%), transposition of great arteries (TGA) 1 (5.3%), tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) 1 (5.3%).

Conclusion: CHD was present in 9.4% of infants born to diabetic mothers, with PDA and PFO being the most frequent. Routine echocardiographic screening of IDMs is recommended for early detection and timely intervention.