Pediatric Cardiac Function Staging and Management Recommendations

Figures

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  FIGURE 1. Principles, aims, and recommendations of pediatric cardiac function staging management. This flowchart outlines the core principles, aims, and key recommendations for managing each stage of pediatric cardiac function (A, B, and C). Stage A (normal cardiac function) focuses on primary prevention through cardiac health promotion, risk factor control, and selective screening. The goal is to maintain Stage A. Stage B (cardiac dysfunction) focuses on secondary prevention (“early detection, diagnosis, and treatment”) through etiological workup, targeted intervention, and close monitoring. The goal is to reverse to Stage A or stabilize in Stage B, preventing progression to C. Stage C (heart failure) focuses on tertiary prevention/clinical management through guideline‐directed therapy, multidisciplinary care, and advanced interventions. The goal is to control symptoms, improve prognosis, and potentially reverse to Stage B or A. Basic cardiac examination includes BNP/NT‐proBNP, 12‐lead electrocardiogram, and echocardiography. Clinical screening includes medical history, physical examination, and basic cardiac examination. Further cardiac examination includes speckle tracking…

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  FIGURE 2. Implementation pathway for cardiac function staging management. This diagram illustrates the dynamic implementation pathway of pediatric cardiac function staging management. It starts with Stage A (all children), where primary prevention strategies are applied. Arrows indicate potential transitions: Effective risk factor control maintains Stage A, and uncontrolled risk factors or new insults can lead to progression to Stage B (cardiac dysfunction). In Stage B, successful early intervention can reverse function back to Stage A. Without effective intervention, progression to Stage C (HF) may occur. In Stage C, comprehensive treatment can lead to three outcomes: Reversal to Stage B (remission), reversal to Stage A (cure), or persistence in Stage C requiring long‐term management. The two‐way arrows between Stage A and Stage C highlight the potential for rapid progression or recovery unique to pediatrics. The core strategies for each stage (prevention, early Intervention, and clinical treatment) are shown in corresponding boxes. HF, heart failure.