Echocardiographic norms in Uzbek children: Focus on newborns, infants, preschoolers, and early school-aged children

Background

Echocardiography plays a pivotal role in assessing pediatric heart conditions, necessitating tailored reference parameters considering age, body size, gender, and ethnicity. Existing standards often lack representation for diverse populations like Uzbek children, requiring region-specific echocardiographic references.

Objectives

This study aimed to establish echocardiographic Z-score nomograms specifically designed for healthy Uzbek children, filling a crucial gap in reference values for cardiovascular measurements in this demographic.

Methods

A cohort of 246 healthy Uzbek children aged 4 days to 11 years (with body surface area from 0.2 to 1.0 m²) underwent echocardiographic assessments. Various regression models were applied to measured parameters to determine the best fit, ensuring comprehensive coverage of cardiovascular structures. The study adhered to strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure data integrity.

Results

The study presented 23 Z-score nomograms based on body surface area, offering an improved approach for interpreting echocardiographic measurements in Uzbek children. Different regression models were employed, showcasing variations in optimal models for specific cardiac structures. These norms highlight potential disparities compared to international standards, emphasizing the need for region-specific reference values.

Conclusion

The established Z-score nomograms serve as a foundational tool for precise assessment and diagnosis of cardiac health in Uzbek children, potentially benefiting broader Central Asian populations. However, further validation and exploration of additional parameters are recommended to enhance their applicability and clinical significance.