Clinical Profile of Childhood Type 1 Diabetes in Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

We describe the clinical prevalence and profile of diabetic children seen in our centre over a 1-year period. All subjects admitted for type 1 diabetes within the review period were recruited. Data retrieved include age, sex, family history, clinical features, and anthropometry. Eight subjects were admitted with a hospital prevalence of 10.1/1000 per year. Mean and modal age were 12 years and 15 years respectively. Five were newly diagnosed (prevalence of new diagnosis 6.3/1000 per year). Five (67%) had a family history of diabetes. Major complaints were polyuria, polyphagia, and polydipsia. Two had altered sensorium on admission. Five (67%) had a body mass index (BMI) >-2 standard deviation Z scores. Six (75%) were in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) on admission. All DKA subjects had sepsis. Complications noted during admission were cerebral oedema (1) and acute kidney injury (1). Seven were discharged, while one subject died. This paper highlights an emerging problem in our environment. Efforts need to be intensified in education of health workers and the populace at large for quick presentation and prompt diagnosis.