Spectrum of Paediatric Cardiac Diseases Recorded in a Private Echocardiography Centre in Makurdi, Nigeria

Background: Cardiac diseases contribute significantly to childhood morbidity and mortality with varying patterns across the globe. Objective: To determine the spectrum and pattern of cardiac diseases among children in Makurdi, Nigeria. Methods: A retrospective study of 206 children who had echocardiography over 57 months (October 2020-July 2025) was conducted. Results: Almost three-quarters (71.8%) had abnormal findings, with 85.8% being congenital heart diseases (CHD). Atrial Septal Defect, Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Ventricular Septal Defect were the leading defects. Acquired heart diseases constituted 12.8% with rheumatic heart disease and dilated cardiomyopathy being the most prevalent. Conclusion: Congenital heart disease remains predominant in this setting, and there is an urgent need for improved paediatric cardiac services.