THE CANADIAN PAEDIATRIC SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM (CPSP):
AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL TOOL IN ACTION
Doherty J, Grenier D, Medaglia A
CPSP Working Group,
Canadian Paediatric Society, Ottawa, Canada
Purpose: To describe the methodology and
accomplishments of a pan-Canadian surveillance system to ascertain rare
conditions.
Methods: Via a monthly report form, 2350
paediatricians identify 12 rare diseases using standardized definitions and
protocols.
Results: CPSP is achieving 83% initial response
rate and 94% completion of the follow-up detailed questionnaire.
Surveillance of acute flaccid paralysis, congenital rubella syndrome (CRS)
and subacute schlerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) have confirmed the success
of systematic vaccination programs, with the last case of wild poliovirus
infection recorded in 1994, one CRS confirmed case per year and only 2 SSPE
cases in the last 5 years. Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn confirmed the
importance of the Canadian Paediatric Society��s recommendation for
intramuscular vitamin-K injections to all newborns. Cerebral edema in
diabetic ketoacidosis has a higher incidence than recent literature reports
and has generated an educational resource for paediatricians. The rare
genetic condition, Smith-Lemli-Optiz, has achieved an earlier diagnosis and
a sufficient incidence rate to potentially recommend a systematic postnatal
screening program.
Conclusion: The CPSP is a model of active
ascertainment using a timely, feasible, and cost-effective tool. It has
unraveled vital information, improving our diagnosis, management and
quality of life of the children and youth affected by these conditions. It
offers opportunities for international networking with other
programs.