The analysis of reasons for hospitalization in a single pediatric ophthalmologic ward in Warsaw, years 2002-2011

Background. The early diagnosis and treatment of childhood eye diseases is essential for a good psychomotoric development. The control of vision should be a part of paediatric examination, especially during prophylactic examinations which are conducted by primary care physicians. Objectives. The aim of the study was to describe reasons for hospitalizations of children and adolescents aged 0-18 years in a single paediatric ophthalmologic ward in Warsaw (Poland). The analyzed period was 2002-2011. Material and methods. The retrospective analysis of data provided by hospital statistics were analyzed. Reasons of hospitalization according to ICD - 10 classification were taken under consideration, age and sex of patients were also analyzed. Medical statistical calculator available on www.medcalc3000.com was used. Results. A total number of 15 972 patients were hospitalized during analyzed period, 80% of them were younger than 10 years. The most common reasons for hospitalizations were: atresia of lacrimal gland (47%), strabismus (25%) and chalazion (8%). The prevalence of strabismus, myopia, glaucoma, conjunctivitis was similar among boys and girls while ocular trauma were significantly more often reported among boys (p < 0.05). Conlusions. The number of hospitalized children in a paediatric ophthalmologic ward has systematically increased. General practitioners should conduct prophylactic procedures regarding eye diseases among children and teenagers in order to provide their early detection and treatment.