General Pediatrics is the branch of medicine that focuses on the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents from birth up to 18 years of age. Pediatricians manage a wide range of physical, behavioral, and mental health issues, provide preventive care like vaccinations, monitor growth and development, and treat acute and chronic illnesses. The goal is to ensure the healthy development of children through all stages of growth.

Clinical Pediatrics is a medical specialty that deals with the direct care and treatment of infants, children, and adolescents in both outpatient and inpatient settings. It involves diagnosing and managing a wide range of childhood illnesses, conducting physical exams, providing immunizations, and monitoring growth and developmental milestones. Clinical pediatricians also counsel families on nutrition, safety, and disease prevention, and may coordinate care with specialists when needed.

Neonatology is a specialized branch of pediatrics focused on the medical care of newborn infants, especially those who are ill or born prematurely. It deals with conditions such as low birth weight, congenital disorders, birth asphyxia, neonatal infections, and respiratory distress. Neonatologists work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where they provide critical care and advanced treatments to support the survival and development of vulnerable newborns. This field requires a deep understanding of both normal and abnormal newborn physiology. Neonatology plays a vital role in reducing infant mortality and improving long-term outcomes for at-risk babies during their first weeks of life.

Perinatal refers to the period immediately before and after birth, typically spanning from the 22nd week of gestation (or around the 5th month of pregnancy) to 7 days after birth. This phase is critical for both mother and baby, as many complications can arise during late pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the early neonatal period. Perinatal care focuses on monitoring fetal development, managing maternal health, and preparing for a safe delivery. It includes screenings, prenatal check-ups, and interventions to reduce risks like preterm birth, birth injuries, and neonatal complications. Effective perinatal care greatly improves survival and health outcomes for newborns.

Pediatric Oncology and Hematology is a medical subspecialty focused on diagnosing and treating cancers and blood disorders in children, adolescents, and young adults. Pediatric oncologists treat conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, brain tumors, and solid tumors, while pediatric hematologists manage disorders such as anemia, hemophilia, sickle cell disease, and clotting abnormalities. Children’s cancers often differ biologically from adult cancers, requiring specialized treatments and care approaches. This field combines advanced therapies—chemotherapy, immunotherapy, bone marrow transplants—with compassionate, long-term support for patients and families. Pediatric Oncology and Hematology teams work to cure disease, minimize side effects, and support emotional and developmental needs throughout treatment.

Pediatric Gastroenterology is a medical subspecialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating digestive system disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. This includes conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and nutritional health. Common issues managed by pediatric gastroenterologists include chronic abdominal pain, gastroesophageal reflux, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, constipation, and liver disorders. They also address feeding difficulties and growth concerns. Care involves diagnostic tools like endoscopy, imaging, and lab testing, as well as dietary management and medication. Pediatric gastroenterologists work closely with families to provide long-term care that supports both the physical and emotional well-being of children.

Pediatric Allergy and Asthma is a medical subspecialty focused on diagnosing and managing allergic conditions and asthma in infants, children, and adolescents. Common issues include food allergies, eczema, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), drug allergies, and asthma—a chronic lung condition causing wheezing, coughing, and breathing difficulties. Pediatric allergists use tests like skin prick testing, blood tests, and pulmonary function tests to identify allergens and assess lung function. Treatment involves allergen avoidance, medications, immunotherapy (allergy shots), and asthma action plans. The goal is to control symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life through individualized, family-centered care and ongoing education.

Pediatric Neurology is a medical subspecialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating neurological disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. These conditions involve the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, and can include epilepsy, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, headaches, autism spectrum disorders, neuromuscular diseases, and genetic or metabolic disorders affecting the nervous system. Pediatric neurologists use tools such as EEG, MRI, genetic testing, and developmental assessments to evaluate neurological function. Treatment often involves medications, therapies, and multidisciplinary care. The goal is to support normal brain development, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life for children with neurological challenges and their families.

Pediatric Cardiology is a medical subspecialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating heart conditions in fetuses, infants, children, and adolescents. It includes both congenital heart defects (present at birth) like septal defects and valve abnormalities, as well as acquired heart diseases such as Kawasaki disease, rheumatic heart disease, and arrhythmias. Pediatric cardiologists use tools like echocardiograms, electrocardiograms (ECG), cardiac MRI, and catheterization to evaluate heart function and structure. Treatment may involve medications, interventional procedures, or surgery in collaboration with pediatric cardiac surgeons. The goal is to ensure healthy heart development and function, while supporting the child’s growth and overall well-being.

Pediatric Orthodontics is a dental specialty focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and jaw alignment issues in children and adolescents. It addresses problems such as crooked teeth, bite misalignments (overbite, underbite, crossbite), overcrowding, and jaw growth abnormalities. Early evaluation—often around age 7—helps identify developmental issues and guide proper tooth and jaw alignment. Treatment may include braces, retainers, space maintainers, or other orthodontic appliances. Pediatric orthodontists work closely with general pediatric dentists to monitor dental growth and ensure healthy oral development. The goal is to improve function, appearance, and long-term oral health, often making future orthodontic treatment easier or shorter.

Pediatric Nephrology is a medical subspecialty focused on diagnosing and treating kidney-related conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. This includes disorders such as urinary tract infections, congenital kidney abnormalities, nephrotic syndrome, glomerulonephritis, hypertension, electrolyte imbalances, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Pediatric nephrologists also manage dialysis and kidney transplantation in children with end-stage renal disease. Using lab tests, imaging, and kidney biopsies, they assess kidney function and develop treatment plans tailored to the child's needs. The goal is to preserve kidney function, manage symptoms, and support growth and development through comprehensive, family-centered care and long-term follow-up.

Pediatric Endocrinology is a medical subspecialty that focuses on diagnosing and managing hormonal and metabolic disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. These conditions involve the endocrine glands, which regulate growth, development, and metabolism. Common disorders include type 1 diabetes, growth hormone deficiency, thyroid disorders, early or delayed puberty, adrenal disorders, and obesity-related hormonal issues. Pediatric endocrinologists use blood tests, imaging, and growth tracking to assess hormone levels and diagnose imbalances. Treatment often involves hormone replacement therapy, medication, and nutritional support. The goal is to ensure normal growth, development, and overall well-being while helping families manage chronic endocrine conditions effectively.

Pediatric Dermatology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating skin, hair, and nail conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Common issues include eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis, birthmarks, infections, acne, allergic reactions, and genetic skin disorders. Pediatric dermatologists understand how skin diseases affect children differently than adults and tailor treatments accordingly, often using gentler medications and therapies suited for young, sensitive skin. They also address cosmetic concerns and provide guidance on skin care and prevention. The goal is to manage symptoms, promote healthy skin development, and support the child’s comfort and self-esteem throughout growth.

Pediatric Nursing is a specialized field of nursing focused on the care of infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric nurses provide medical and emotional support to young patients and their families across various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. They assist with health assessments, administer medications and treatments, monitor growth and development, and educate families about illness prevention and management. Pediatric nurses play a vital role in comforting children during medical procedures, advocating for their needs, and promoting a safe, child-friendly environment. Their compassionate care helps improve health outcomes and supports the well-being of children at every stage of growth.

Pediatric Surgery is a surgical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of surgical conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. It covers a wide range of procedures addressing congenital anomalies, trauma, tumors, and diseases affecting organs such as the digestive tract, heart, lungs, and urinary system. Pediatric surgeons are specially trained to operate on smaller, developing bodies with unique anatomical and physiological considerations. They work closely with pediatricians and other specialists to provide comprehensive care before, during, and after surgery. The goal is to correct abnormalities, relieve symptoms, and improve long-term health and quality of life for young patients.

Child and Adolescent Obesity refers to excessive body fat accumulation that negatively affects the health and well-being of children and teenagers. It is a complex condition influenced by genetic, environmental, behavioral, and social factors. Common causes include poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and lack of physical activity. Obesity in youth increases the risk of developing health problems such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, sleep apnea, and psychological issues like low self-esteem and depression. Prevention and treatment focus on promoting healthy eating habits, regular exercise, family support, and sometimes medical or surgical interventions. Early intervention is crucial to reduce long-term health risks and improve quality of life.

Pediatric Nutrition is the study and practice of promoting healthy eating and proper nutrient intake in infants, children, and adolescents to support growth, development, and overall health. It involves understanding the unique nutritional needs at different stages of childhood, from breastfeeding and weaning to balanced diets for school-age children and teens. Pediatric nutritionists and healthcare providers address issues like malnutrition, obesity, food allergies, and nutrient deficiencies. They provide guidance on healthy eating habits, meal planning, and managing special dietary needs related to medical conditions. Proper pediatric nutrition is essential for physical growth, cognitive development, immune function, and lifelong well-being.

Pediatric Orthopedics is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing, treating, and managing musculoskeletal problems in infants, children, and adolescents. This includes conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments, such as congenital deformities, fractures, scoliosis, growth plate injuries, and developmental disorders like clubfoot or hip dysplasia. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons use both non-surgical methods (like casting and bracing) and surgical interventions to correct problems and support healthy growth. Because children’s bones are still growing, treatment requires special consideration to avoid affecting normal development. The goal is to restore function, relieve pain, and help children lead active, healthy lives.