Clinical and Experimental Pediatrics

Review Article

Gastroenterology

Balancing therapeutic benefits and hidden risks of proton pump inhibitors in pediatric practice: a narrative review and update (204,202 times)

Maria Rogalidou, Alexandra Papadopoulou

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2026;69(3):186-196. Published online February 25, 2026

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) effectively treat acid-related disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disease, eosinophilic esophagitis, peptic ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Long-term use, particularly in children, may lead to microbiome alterations, nutrient deficiencies, infections, renal injury, osteoporosis, fractures, and other gastrointestinal changes. PPI therapy should be guided by clear clinical indications, prescribed at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration, and regularly reassessed to minimize risks in young children.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2025.02761

Neonatology (Perinatology)

Optimal postnatal corticosteroid regimens to prevent bronchopulmonary dysplasia with minimal adverse effects (91,724 times)

Ga Won Jeon

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2026;69(4):293-300. Published online March 27, 2026

Postnatal corticosteroids facilitate ventilator weaning and reduce the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Despite being commonly used in high-risk infants, administration guidelines have not been established. Early dexamethasone may cause neurodevelopmental harm, and the optimal dosing remains uncertain. Inhaled corticosteroids show inconclusive benefits, whereas intratracheal administration with surfactant appears promising. Thus, corticosteroids should be used cautiously in high-risk, ventilator-dependent infants with severe BPD, and further high-quality trials are needed.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2026.00108

Original Article

Neonatology (Perinatology)

Effect of high-frequency oscillatory ventilation with intermittent sigh breaths on carbon dioxide levels in neonates (89,517 times)

Kulthida Baingam, Anucha Thatrimontrichai, Manapat Praditaukrit, Gunlawadee Maneenil, Supaporn Dissaneevate

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(2):178-184. Published online November 13, 2024

Web of Science 1 Crossref 1

Question: Can sigh breaths (Sighs) application during high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) decrease partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂) levels?
Finding: The mean PaCO₂ level after Sighs during HFOV was significantly decreased compared to that after HFOV alone (mean difference, -3.6 mmHg).
Meaning: HFOV plus Sighs functionality can reduce PaCO₂ levels. However, further studies are required to conclusively determine the effects of Sighs.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2024.01011

Review Article

Developmental and Behavioral Medicine

Clinical practice guidelines for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: recent updates (59,572 times)

Tae Hoon Eom, Young-Hoon Kim

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(1):26-34. Published online June 14, 2023

Web of Science 16 Crossref 17

· Primary pediatricians should play a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
· The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition, has lowered the diagnostic threshold for older teens and adults and a comorbid diagnosis with autism is now allowed.
· The American Academy of Pediatrics had added recommendation-related comorbid conditions in its guideline and the Society of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics recently developed a complex ADHD guideline.
· The European ADHD Guideline Group recently developed a guideline for managing ADHD during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2021.01466

Endocrinology

Growth plate closure and therapeutic interventions (45,828 times)

Ja Hyang Cho, Hae Woon Jung, Kye Shik Shim

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(11):553-559. Published online October 28, 2024

Web of Science 4 Crossref 3

Height gains result from longitudinal bone growth. Upon adequate growth, growth plate closure limits longitudinal bone growth. To date, gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs, aromatase inhibitors, C-type natriuretic peptide analogs, and fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 inhibitors have been studied or used as therapeutic interventions to delay growth plate closure and increase human height. The development of more effective therapeutic modalities for short stature, precocious puberty, and skeletal dysplasia is anticipated.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.00346

Neonatology (Perinatology)

Demographic transition in South Korea: implications of falling birth rates (37,298 times)

Chae Young Kim, Sung-Hoon Chung

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(10):498-509. Published online June 27, 2024

Web of Science 11 Crossref 10

· Since 1960, South Korea's TFR decreased from 6.33 to 0.78 in 2022, below the 2.1 replacement level since 1983, with women's average age at first marriage rising to 31.3 in 2022.
· Policies needed: financial incentives, longer parental leave, better childcare.
· The U.S. (15.3% immigrants) and Germany (18.8%) use immigration to maintain demographic stability, a strategy South Korea is considering.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.01599

Other

Myopia: a review of current concepts, association with nonophthalmological conditions, and treatment strategy in children and adolescents (34,763 times)

Yeon Woong Chung

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(8):554-565. Published online April 1, 2025

Web of Science 5 Crossref 5

Myopia is a major ophthalmological disorder with increasing prevalence worldwide, particularly in East Asia. Evidence indicates that its development involves complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Body stature, sleep patterns, and nutritional status significantly influence the progression of myopia during childhood and adolescence. Its treatment and prevention strategies include optical correction, atropine therapy, increased outdoor activity, decreased near work, and regular retinal monitoring.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2025.00115

Infection

Community-acquired pneumonia in children: updated perspectives on its etiology, diagnosis, and treatment (34,511 times)

Ki Wook Yun

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(2):80-89. Published online June 14, 2023

Web of Science 22 Crossref 31

· Most commonly confirmed causes of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children are Mycoplasma pneumoniae (8%–40%) and respiratory syncytial virus (15%–20%).
· Pyogenic bacteria, most commonly Streptococcus pneumoniae (40%–50%) and Streptococcus pyogenes (10%–25%), are detected in 2%–5% of children hospitalized with CAP.
· CAP should be diagnosed conservatively according to clinical and radiological criteria.
· The etiology should be identified via appropriate test result interpretation.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2022.01452

Allergy

Action-plan and as-needed therapy in allergic rhinitis (32,903 times)

Hyeon-Jong Yang

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(6):267-273. Published online May 21, 2024

Web of Science 5 Crossref 3

· The guidelines may not work in the real world.
· An action-plan reflecting patient’s severity and variable of symptoms, values and preferences as well as the benefits and harms of treatment, may be a useful alternative.
· The action plan and as-needed therapy must include the following elements: when, what, how, and why.
· Action plan and as-needed therapy can help patients manage their symptoms more effectively.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.00654

Developmental and Behavioral Medicine

Comprehensive evaluation of the child with global developmental delays or intellectual disability (31,238 times)

Abdullah Nasser Aldosari, T. Saeed Aldosari

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(9):435-446. Published online May 29, 2024

Web of Science 12 Crossref 13

· A detailed history and comprehensive physical examination remain the cornerstones for establishing a diagnosis of global developmental delay/intellectual disability (GDD/ID).
· Comprehensive surveillance and screening programs play a significant role in the early detection of GDD.
· Whole-exome sequencing is highly recommended as first- or second-line testing for individuals with idiopathic GDD/ID.
· Early intervention by a well-versed multidisciplinary team can significantly improve the outcomes and prognosis of GDD/ID.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.01697

Other

Acetaminophen causes neurodevelopmental injury in susceptible babies and children: no valid rationale for controversy (30,443 times)

Lisa Zhao, John P. Jones, Lauren G. Anderson, Zacharoula Konsoula, Cynthia D. Nevison, Kathryn J. Reissner, William Parker

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(3):126-139. Published online June 14, 2023

Web of Science 4 Crossref 4

Despite worldwide acceptance of acetaminophen (paracetamol) in pediatric medicine, careful examination reveals no valid objections to the conclusion that early exposure to acetaminophen causes neurodevelopmental injury in susceptible babies and children. Nevertheless, debate that early exposure to acetaminophen causes neurodevelopmental injury has centered around the prenatal period, evidence of which is relatively limited compared to that in the postnatal period, which is the time of greatest absolute and relative risk.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2022.01319

Original Article

General Pediatrics

Liposomal SunActive versus conventional iron for treatment of iron-deficiency anemia in children aged 2–12 years: a prospective randomized controlled trial (28,194 times)

Wael A. Bahbah, Yasmin A.H.S. Younis, Hanan Salama Elbelouny, Asmaa A. Mahmoud

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(8):608-615. Published online July 18, 2025

Web of Science 3 Crossref 4

Background: Liposomal iron, a novel oral formulation of ferric pyrophosphate that demonstrates improved gastrointestinal absorption and bioavailability with fewer side effects than conventional iron, represents a significant advancement in the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia (IDA).
Purpose: To conduct an in-depth comparative study of liposomal SunActive and conventional iron supplements (iron polymaltose complex) for treating IDA in children aged 2–12 years Methods: This...

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2025.00262

Review Article

Allergy

Global burden of asthma among children and adolescents with projections to 2050: a comprehensive review and forecasted modeling study (24,498 times)

Tae Hyeon Kim, Hyunjee Kim, Jiyeon Oh, Soeun Kim, Michael Miligkos, Dong Keon Yon, Nikolaos G Papadopoulos

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(5):329-343. Published online April 22, 2025

Web of Science 13 Crossref 17

Pediatric asthma can persist to adulthood and must be effectively managed. This review examined the prevalence of asthma among individuals younger than 20 years and revealed a decline from 1990 to 2021, higher rates in males, and a peak in children aged 5–9 years. Despite a projected continued decrease in prevalence by 2050, asthma will remain a significant health concern for children and adolescents.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2025.00423

Comparison and review of international guidelines for treating asthma in children (24,378 times)

Eui Jeong Roh

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(9):447-455. Published online August 20, 2024

Web of Science 5 Crossref 5

Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children. Although asthma in children may spontaneously improve, it continues into adulthood in many cases. Therefore, appropriate disease management and medication are essential. Consistent and objective guidelines are needed to manage pediatric asthma and related adverse reactions.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2022.01466

Original Article

General Pediatrics

Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding dengue vaccine: a baseline study of community members and health providers in Indonesia (23,557 times)

Abdul Wahab, Ida Safitri Laksanawati, Retna Siwi Padmawati, Asal Wahyuni Erlin Mulyadi, Wahyu Triadmajani, Jarir At Thobari

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(3):228-237. Published online November 13, 2024

Web of Science 3 Crossref 3

Question: Do community members and health providers show different level of knowledge, attitude, and practice towards dengue vaccine?
Finding: These 2 groups only differed in practice component, while the knowledge and attitude constituents were relatively low for both.
Meaning: There is an urgent need to deliver educational interventions to raise awareness of community members and health providers regarding dengue vaccination.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2024.00962

Nutrition

Effect of probiotics plus zinc supplementation on clinical outcomes of infants and children with acute infectious diarrhea: a randomized controlled trial (22,372 times)

Deldar Morad Abdulah, Saad Jbraeil Sulaiman, Zaid Waad Ahmed

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(4):203-212. Published online February 19, 2024

Web of Science 6 Crossref 8

Question: Does zinc supplementation along with probiotics affect disease severity or clinical outcomes of children with acute diarrhea?
Findings: This study indicated that zinc supplementation and probiotics had no effect on clinical improvement or disease severity among pediatric patients with acute diarrhea.
Meaning: Children who received probiotics plus zinc recovered faster than those who received probiotics only.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.01340

Review Article

Infection

Recommendation for use of a long-acting monoclonal antibody to prevent respiratory syncytial virus infection in infants and young children (21,815 times)

Soo-Han Choi, Dong Hyun Kim, Jong Gyun Ahn, Ki Wook Yun, Byung-Wook Eun, Jin Lee, Jina Lee, Taek-Jin Lee, Hyunju Lee, Dae Sun Jo, Eun Young Cho, Hye-Kyung Cho, Young June Choe, Ui Yoon Choi, Yun-Kyung Kim; The Committee on Infectious Diseases of the Korean Pediatric Society

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(10):742-750. Published online September 3, 2025

To prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-associated lower respiratory tract infections, a single dose of nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody, is recommended for all neonates born during the RSV season (October to March) and all infants younger than 6 months old at the start of the RSV season. Nirsevimab should be administered shortly after birth to neonates and just before or early in the season to infants entering their first RSV season.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2025.01067

Original Article

Neonatology (Perinatology)

Prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress among parents of neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit: a systematic review and meta-analysis (21,664 times)

Asha P. Shetty, Kurvatteppa Halemani, Alwin Issac, Latha Thimmappa, Sanjay Dhiraaj, Radha K, Prabhaker Mishra, Vijai Datta Upadhyaya

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(2):104-115. Published online November 14, 2023

Web of Science 37 Crossref 42

Question: What emotions do parents experience when their newborns are admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)?
Finding: Mothers experienced more anxiety (51%), depression (31%), and stress (41%) symptoms than fathers (26%, 12%, and 22%, respectively).
Meaning: Parents often experience anxiety, stress, and depression following NICU admission. Healthcare workers are responsible for providing regular parental counseling.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.00486

Review Article

Other

Microplastic and human health with focus on pediatric well-being: a comprehensive review and call for future studies (21,030 times)

Rogers Wainkwa Chia, Ntegang Venant Atem, Jin-Yong Lee, Jihye Cha

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(1):1-15. Published online November 6, 2024

Web of Science 26 Crossref 32

· Milk and formula are common sources of microplastic in infants.
· Water and air are the most common sources of microplastic pollution from infancy to adolescence.
· Microplastic use by children of all ages can cause cell damage and affect their health.
· Microplastics present in children can be quantified using a stereomicroscope and characterized using micro- Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.01739

Editorial

Neurology

Tocilizumab as a key therapeutic option in high-risk pediatric acute necrotizing encephalopathy (20,755 times)

Jon Soo Kim

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2026;69(2):114-116. Published online January 26, 2026

· Acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) is a severe, infection- triggered encephalitis driven primarily by cytokine- mediated immune dysregulation rather than direct viral cytotoxicity.
· Tocilizumab, through targeted inhibition of interleukin-6 signaling, is an important therapeutic option for ANE that may improve survival and neurological outcomes of high-risk pediatric patients.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2026.00073

Original Article

Developmental and Behavioral Medicine

Characteristics of temper tantrums in 1–6-year-old children and impact on caregivers (20,203 times)

Warangkana Prutipaisan, Issarapa Chunsuwan, Tippawan Hansakunachai, Paskorn Sritipsukho

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(2):170-177. Published online November 13, 2024

Web of Science 1 Crossref 2

Question: What are common tantrum behaviors in preschool children, and how frequently are problematic behaviors observed? Do problematic tantrums have a different emotional impact on caregivers compared to typical tantrums?
Finding: Temper tantrums are common in preschool children, and verbal tantrums are the most common type.
Meaning: Problematic tantrums, defined as tantrums exhibiting aggressive physical behavior, long duration (>15 minutes), or frequent occurrence (>3 days/wk), significantly affected caregivers’ emotions.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2024.00766

Review Article

Developmental and Behavioral Medicine

Screen time among preschoolers: exploring individual, familial, and environmental factors (18,293 times)

Sangha Lee, Donghee Kim, Yunmi Shin

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(12):641-650. Published online September 12, 2024

Web of Science 8 Crossref 12

This systematic review examined the correlation between screen time and various factors in preschoolers. Findings suggest that media parenting, including setting appropriate media limits, is crucial in protecting against excessive screen exposure. However, limited research has been done on the impact of family and personal factors, particularly with the increasing use of portable devices among young children.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.01746

Hematology

Iron deficiency in children with a focus on inflammatory conditions (17,084 times)

Na Hee Lee

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(6):283-293. Published online May 21, 2024

Web of Science 4 Crossref 6

· Iron deficiency has important effects on neurodevelopment and the immune system in children.
· Hepcidine plays an important role in iron homeostasis.
· Diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency in chronic inflammatory disease are important for patients' quality of life and disease course.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.00521

Original Article

Pulmonology

Effect of vitamin C supplement in treatment of childhood pneumonia requiring hospitalization: a randomized controlled trial (15,949 times)

Chutima Phuaksaman, Katechan Jampachaisri, Klaita Srisingh

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(9):690-699. Published online April 1, 2025

This study assessed the effects of vitamin C on children with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Vitamin C supplementation improved clinical symptoms within 48–72 hours compared to placebo but did not reduce the length of hospital stay (LOS). These findings suggest that vitamin C is beneficial for managing CAP severity, but does not affect LOS.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2025.01970

Review Article

Neonatology (Perinatology)

Need for national guidance regarding proactive care of infants born at 22–23 weeks' gestation (15,757 times)

Ga Won Jeon

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(1):53-61. Published online November 13, 2024

Web of Science 3 Crossref 4

With advancements in neonatal intensive care, the limit of viability has shifted to 22–23 weeks' gestation, whose survival rates vary across countries and institutions. These rates are not static and can be improved through the proactive and centralized care guided by national protocols, including maternal transfer to high-activity regions with better neonatal intensive care practices before delivery.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2024.01277

Gastroenterology

Anxiety disorders presenting as gastrointestinal symptoms in children – a scoping review (15,355 times)

Anjali Kumar, Pramodh Vallabhaneni

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(5):344-351. Published online January 13, 2025

Crossref 5

A positive bidirectional relationship between gastrointestinal disorders and anxiety, but with no clear aetiology, was identified. Factors such as somatisation and pain catastrophising resulted in poorer pain-related outcomes in children. Further studies are required to understand this relationship in order to have targeted treatments and ensure better long term outcomes.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2024.01732

Original Article

Neurology

Effectiveness of Helmet therapy for infants with moderate to severe positional plagiocephaly (15,352 times)

Jeongho Kim, Jina Kim, Kyu Young Chae

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2024;67(1):46-53. Published online December 5, 2023

Web of Science 9 Crossref 11

Question: Is helmet therapy effective for positional plagiocephaly? What factors influence helmet therapy efficacy for positional plagiocephaly?
Finding: Helmet therapy is effective for infants with moderate to severe positional plagiocephaly, and its effectiveness is influenced by age at treatment initiation, severity of head asymmetry, and daily duration of helmet wear.
Meaning: Pediatricians should initiate helmet therapy for positional plagiocephaly sooner, ideally before 9 months of age, to maximize treatment efficacy.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2023.00626

General Pediatrics

Lipoprotein(a) prevalence trends in Portuguese children and adolescents: a real-world perspective (15,271 times)

Isabel Morais Ribeiro, Susete Vieira, Miguel Saraiva, Mónica Tavares, José Carlos Oliveira, Isabel Mangas Palma, Helena Ferreira Mansilha

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(12):1031-1040. Published online November 24, 2025

Early lipid screening, including lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), in children/adolescents is key to identifying and managing dyslipidemia and reducing the risk of early-onset cardiovascular disease. This study shows that prevalence of elevated Lp(a) in high-risk Portuguese children is alarming, with over 30% at intermediate/high risk and nearly 1% at very high-risk (>430 nmol/L). Since Lp(a) is mostly genetically determined, one-time early screening in atrisk children is crucial for timely monitoring and prevention.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2025.00339

Review Article

Other

Artificial intelligence in pediatric healthcare: current applications, potential, and implementation considerations (15,064 times)

Taejin Park, In-Hee Lee, Seung Wook Lee, Sek Won Kong

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2025;68(9):641-651. Published online June 25, 2025

Web of Science 5 Crossref 10

Artificial intelligence (AI) offers potential benefits in pediatric care, but its real-world adoption requires clinician literacy, ethical and legal safeguards, and cautious implementation. Large language models are emerging across healthcare, but their use in pediatric clinical practice remains premature. Thus, the cautious and accountable implementation of AI is crucial to preventing unintended harm and realizing its potential.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2025.00962

Guideline

Infection

Recommendation for use of 15- and 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines in Korean infants and children (14,879 times)

Ki Wook Yun, Dong Hyun Kim, Jong Gyun Ahn, Byung-Wook Eun, Jin Lee, Jina Lee, Taek-Jin Lee, Hyunju Lee, Dae Sun Jo, Eun Young Cho, Hye-Kyung Cho, Soo-Han Choi, Young June Choe, Ui Yoon Choi, Yun-Kyung Kim; The Committee on Infectious Diseases of the Korean Pediatric Society

Clin Exp Pediatr. 2026;69(1):76-83. Published online December 30, 2025

Compared to PCV13, PCV15 includes 2 (22F and 33F), and PCV20 includes 7 (8, 10A, 11A, 12F, 15B, 22F, and 33F) additional serotypes. The vaccination schedule remains the same: primary doses at 2, 4, and 6 months, and a booster at 12–15 months. If PCV13 was administered in the primary series, PCV15 and PCV20 may be used to complete it or as a booster.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3345/cep.2025.01900

Cited By 42	Prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress among parents of neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Cited By 32	Microplastic and human health with focus on pediatric well-being: a comprehensive review and call for future studies
Cited By 31	Community-acquired pneumonia in children: updated perspectives on its etiology, diagnosis, and treatment
Cited By 30	Metabolic complications of obesity in children and adolescents
Cited By 22	Neonatal family-centered care: evidence and practice models

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