Our Specialties & Conditions

2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

An outbreak of a novel coronavirus (also called 2019-nCoV or Covid ) recently began in Wuhan, China. It is a new type of coronavirus not previously known to cause disease in humans. Read more.

22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome

A genetic disorder caused by the partial deletion of genetic material on one copy of a person’s chromosome 22.

4GUT Program

The Lurie Children’s 4GUT Program combines the expertise of both pediatric surgery and pediatric gastroenterology to help assess and manage patients with complex disorders of the foregut. Learn more.

5-alpha Reductase Deficiency

A deficiency causing fetuses to develop with what are called “ambiguous genitalia,” not clearly male or female.

Accessory Navicular

An extra piece of bone attached to the navicular bone, located on the inside of the foot just above the arch.

Achalasia

A disorder of the esophagus, impairing the ability to push food down toward the stomach.

Achilles Tendonitis

An inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the thick, fibrous, connective tissue that attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone.

Acne

Pimples with redness and discomfort caused by hair follicles becoming plugged with dead skin cells, sebum and bacteria.

Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious condition that affects the nervous system.

Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Program

Lurie Children's Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders launched the Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program to provide top-quality care to adolescents using our pediatric protocols.

Adolescent & Young Adult Medicine

The Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine provides medical and mental health services for children and adolescents up to age 25, including primary care, behavioral health, and gender development care.

Adolescent Behavioral Health Program

The behavioral health services in the Division of Adolescent Medicine aim to provide psychological assessment, psychotherapy and psychiatric care in select subspecialty services and programs.

Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program

When children with congenital heart disease become adults, they need to see adult congenital heart disease specialists. Lurie Children’s has an ACHD program.

Advanced General Pediatrics & Primary Care

Lurie Children's Division of Advanced General Pediatrics and Primary Care offers primary care medicine and a broad range of pediatric specialties related to a child's environment and general well-being.

Aerodigestive Program

A multi-disciplinary team of specialists in Lurie Children’s Aerodigestive Program treat diseases of the respiratory and upper digestive tract, including the lips, mouth, tongue, nose, throat, vocal cords, esophagus and windpipe.

Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum

The corpus callosum — a collection of many millions of nerve fibers in the middle of the brain — is the largest connection between the two sides of the brain, or hemispheres. Agenesis (absence) of the corpus callosum is a condition in which this structure is either partially or completely missing. Read more.

Alagille Syndrome

Alagille syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes bile to build up in the liver because there are too few bile ducts, resulting in liver damage. Learn more.

Allergic Rhinitis

An inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose, often due to an allergy to pollen, dust or other airborne substances.

Allergic Rhinitis Program

Our experts provide thorough evaluation and comprehensive testing for allergic rhinitis, including education on avoiding common allergens and extensive treatment options.

Allergy & Immunology

The Division of Allergy and Immunology treats more children for allergies and asthma than any other hospital in Illinois, with allergist/immunologists who are leaders in their field.

Alopecia Areata

Condition characterized by loss of hair, usually in a localized patch or multiple patches, due to immune attack on the hair follicles.

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

Amblyopia is when your child’s brain is not fully learning how to use one or both of the eyes. Learn more.

Amniotic Band Birth Defects

A group of birth defects thought to have a common origin in a malfunction of the amnion part of the pregnancy membranes.

Anemia

A lower than the normal number of red blood cells, which carry oxygen from the lungs and distribute it throughout the entire body.

Anesthesiology

The board certified pediatric anesthesiologists at Lurie Children's use the highest safety standards when administering anesthesia to children.

Aneurysmal Bone Cysts (ABCs)

Learn about aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs), benign yet destructive tumors commonly found in knees, pelvis, or spine, mainly affecting children and adolescents​.

Anomalous Left Coronary Artery Arising from the Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA)

Anomalous left coronary artery arising from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare pediatric heart condition that Lurie Children’s treats.

Anorectal Malformations

Anorectal malformations refer to a range of congenital anomalies resulting in the abnormal position of the anus, rectum, lower spinal cord, and genitourinary tract.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

An injury to a stabilizing ligament of the knee that keeps the tibia from sliding forward, especially with twisting or pivoting motions.

Anxiety

A normal stress reaction to our surroundings, triggering the body to physically and mentally prepare for possible danger.

Aortic Valve Stenosis

Aortic valve stenosis (also referred to as aortic stenosis) occurs when the aortic valve is narrowed or thickened and causes obstruction. Learn more.

Aortic Valve Stenosis Program

Our Aortic Valve Stenosis Program includes a multidisciplinary team of experts dedicated to working with families to provide the best, individualized treatment to all children with aortic valve stenosis. Learn more.

Aortopathy: Dilated Root & Aorta Abnormalities

Learn about aortopathy and abnormalities of the aorta, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for pediatric patients.

Apophysitis of the Pelvis/Hip

Irritation or inflammation of a growth plate, which provides a point for a muscle to attach to bone, most commonly affecting adolescents.

Appendicitis

An infection or inflammation of the appendix, a pinkie-sized organ at the junction of the small and large intestines.

Aquatic Therapy Program

The aquatic therapy program is a great supplement to land therapy to help children meet their strength, range of motion/flexibility, balance, coordination, endurance, and walking goals. Learn More.

Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC)

ARVC is a rare, heart condition linked to sudden death. We’re experts at genetic diagnosis and treatment for children and families with ARVC.

Asthma

Asthma is common chronic illness in children, with symptoms such as cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and more. Learn more about children's asthma.

Asthma Program

Lurie Children’s Asthma Program treats more kids with asthma than any other area hospital or medical center. Learn more about available treatment options.

Athlete Burnout

A condition in which an athlete experiences fatigue and declining performance in his/her sport despite continuing or increased training.

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)

Learn about atrial septal defect (ASD) at Lurie Children's, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for this heart condition in children.

Atrioventricular Canal

When the common valve between the upper and lower chambers doesn't close properly, allowing blood to leak backward from the heart's lower chambers to the upper ones.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

A type of ADHD not combined with extreme physical activity, characterized by a lack of working memory, language problems, slow reaction times, low motivation, boredom, and low arousal.

Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)

A condition used to describe children, adolescents and some adults who are inattentive, easily distracted, hyperactive and impulsive in their behavior.

Audiology

The certified pediatric audiologists at Lurie Children's specialize in early diagnosis and care for children who are hard of hearing.

Aural (Re)Habilitation Therapy Program

Lurie Children's Aural (Re)Habilitation Therapy Program therapists specialize in helping children with hearing loss maximize the benefit they receive from their hearing aids or cochlear implants.

Autism

A neurological and developmental disorder appearing during the first three years of life that affects communication, social interaction, and creative or imaginative play.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a range of symptoms, skills, and disability levels, and includes conditions such as Asperger syndrome. Learn more here.

Autonomic Disorders

Disorders resulting in a failure of the various bodily functioning normally controlled by the autonomic (or “involuntary”) nervous system or their excessive or overactive functioning.

Autonomic Medicine

Lurie Children's Center for Autonomic Medicine is an interdisciplinary program studying diseases of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates breathing, body temperature, heart-rate, blood pressure, gut motility and more.

Bariatric Surgery Program

The Pediatric Bariatric Surgery Program offers a solution that resolves over 80% of patients' weight-related health issues. Learn more at Lurie Children's.

Batten Disease

A group of diseases including late infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, a neurodegenerative disease causing cognitive impairment, vision loss, seizures and poor motor function.

Bicuspid Aortic Valve

Most common form of congenital heart disease, the valve is malformed and opens abnormally, becomes obstructed, or leaks, increasing the risk of an enlarged aorta, aneurysm, dissection, or rupture.

Bicuspid Aortic Valve Program

Lurie Children’s cares for more than 100 infants, children and teenagers with bicuspid aortic valve disease, the most common form of congenital heart disease.

Biliary Atresia

Biliary atresia is a chronic liver disease where bile ducts of the liver are blocked, causing damage and loss of vital body functions. Learn more here.

Black Eye (Ecchymosis)

Usually occurring from some type of trauma to the eye, causing the tissue around the eye to become bruised.

Bladder and Cloacal Exstrophy Program

Combining the expertise of multiple surgeons with extensive experience in complex reconstructive genitourinary surgery provides a unique approach to tackle bladder and cloacal exstrophy.

Bladder Exstrophy

A severe deformity of the bladder requiring major reconstructive surgery at delivery.

Bladder Function Improvement Training (BFIT) Program

The BFIT program at Lurie Children's is a comprehensive approach to managing dysfunctional urinating and nighttime wetting.

Bladder Stones (Calculi)

Deposits of minerals such as calcium and magnesium that crystallize, sometimes causing severe pain in the lower abdomen and back, difficult or frequent urination, blood in the urine, and fever.

Blepharitis (Chalazion, Hordeolum/Stye)

Blepharitis is an inflammation in the meibomian glands in the eyelids and eyelashes. Read more.

Blocked Tear Ducts (Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction)

A blocked tear duct occurs when the tears can not drain properly from your eyes.  Learn more.

Blood inside the Eye (Hyphema)

A hyphema is blood in the front section of the eye (anterior chamber). Learn more.

Bone Health Program

Lurie Children’s Bone Health Program treats children and adolescents for a wide range of bone disorders including genetic and metabolic conditions. Learn more.

Bone Marrow Failure

Lurie Children's offers coordinated, personalized care for bone marrow failure disorders in children. Learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment options.

Bone-Anchored Hearing Device

The bone-anchored hearing device (BAHA, for its original name, the bone-anchored hearing aid) is an implant system for children and adults who have conductive (middle ear) hearing loss and cannot be successfully fit with hearing aids.

Botulism

Disease caused by a nerve toxin formed from a germ called Clostridium botulinum, which is found in soil, characterized differently by its means of exposure.

Bowed Legs (Genu Varum)

Outward curve of the legs when sitting, standing or walking; normal in the first 12 months of life; occasionally due to abnormality of the growth plate at the top of the shinbone, or infection.

Boxer Fracture

A break in one of the metacarpal bones, forming the knuckles and connecting the finger bones to the wrist bone, usually involving the ring and little fingers.

Brachial Plexus Palsy

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves which run from the cervical spinal cord to the muscles of the upper limb or arm. Brachial plexus palsy refers to an injury to this network of nerves. Learn more.

Brachial Plexus Program

We offer Illinois's most comprehensive multidisciplinary program for infants and children with brachial plexus palsy, treating from birth through adolescence.

Brain Tumor Program

Lurie Children’s Brain Tumor Center offers highly specialized, state-of the-art care for children with brain tumors​, the most common solid tumor diagnosed in children.

Brain Tumors

Brain tumors are abnormal growths of cells in the brain or central nervous system. Learn more about the types, symptoms, & treatment of brain tumors in children.

Branchial Cleft Abnormality

An irregularity that occurs during fetal development that results in malformations in the side of the neck, appearing anywhere from the ear, along the line of the jaw, to the throat.

Breast Abnormalities

Including growth disturbances such as macromastia, breast asymmetry, breast enlargement in boys called gynecomastia, breast masses and extra nipples in both boys and girls.

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD)/Chronic Lung Disease (CLD)

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a condition that can develop in premature infants when their lungs are not fully developed, leading to breathing problems.

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Program

The Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) Program at Lurie Children's is dedicated to the care, investigation and outcomes of infants with chronic respiratory failure.

Brucellosis

An infectious disease caused by the group Brucella, primarily passed among animals, infecting humans when they come in contact with animals or animal products that are contaminated.

Bunion Deformity (Juvenile Hallux Valgus)

Occurring in children and adults, a bunion is the development of a large bump on the inside of the foot where the great toe meets the end of the foot.

Buried (Concealed, Hidden) Penis

Partially or completely concealed beneath the scrotum or excess skin or fat in the pubic area, typically of normal size and function.

Burn Care

Lurie Children’s provides burn care for patients who arrive at the Kenneth and Anne Griffin Emergency Care Center with minor burns. Learn more here.

Burns

Coming from many sources: scalds from steam, hot bath water, hot beverage spills, hot foods, cooking fluids, are the number one source. Other causes include flames and hot objects.

Cancer

An abnormal growth of cells, rapidly reproducing despite restriction of space, nutrients shared by other cells or signals sent from the body to stop reproduction.

Cancer & Blood Disorders

Lurie Children's specializes in pediatric oncology, hematology, and neuro-oncology. Learn more about our cancer and blood disorder treatment services here.

Cancer Predisposition Program

Lurie Children’s Cancer Predisposition Program provides comprehensive genetic counseling and testing services to pediatric oncology patients and families at risk of hereditary cancer syndromes.

Capillary Malformation - Arteriovenous Malformation Syndrome (CM-AVM)

An inherited syndrome, with a combination of both capillary and arteriovenous malformations, located in the soft tissue of the body or in the central nervous system.

Capillary Malformation - Port Wine Stain

Port wine stains (capillary malformations) are permanent, flat, pink, red, or purple birthmarks on the skin. Learn about causes and what treatments are available.

CAR T-Cell Therapy Program

Discover the innovative chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-Cell Therapy Program at Lurie Children’s for treating pediatric cancer patients.

Cardiac Ablation

Cardiac ablation is a treatment for children with arrhythmia, or an abnormal heart beat. We have excellent ablation outcomes and low complication rates.

Cardiac Arrhythmias

Our electrophysiologists diagnose and treat every kind of pediatric arrhythmia, including heartbeats that are too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia).

Cardiac Imaging

Lurie Children's is a leader in pediatric cardiac imaging, performing more than 18,000 echocardiograms and 2,000 fetal echos annually to diagnose heart conditions.

Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome (CFC)

Get more information on Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome, its symptoms, and treatment options at Lurie Children's.

Cardiology & Cardiac Surgery

The pediatric cardiologists and cardiac surgeons at Lurie Children's Heart Center are highly skilled in treating complex heart conditions in children. Learn more.

Cardiology & Cardiac Surgery Second Opinion Program

Our cardiac second opinion program offers second opinions to parents of children diagnosed with serious heart conditions. Learn more about your options here.

Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy can appear suddenly (acute) or can be present for many years or even since birth (chronic/congenital), and can lead to heart failure. Learn more here.

Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Program

Lurie Children’s team of respiratory therapists, physical therapists and occupational therapist work together to ensure the best outcomes for patients after treatment for heart and lung injury, disease or malformation.

Cardiovascular Bridge Program

The Cardiovascular Bridge Program at Lurie Children’s Heart Center works with patients with bicuspid aortic valve disease in transition to the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Northwestern Medicine.

Cardiovascular Genetics Center

Lurie Children's Cardiovascular Genetics Center, with experts in pediatric and adult cardiology, as well as genetics, is designed to evaluate and treat families with genetic heart disease.

Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgery

Our cardiothoracic surgery team provides comprehensive surgical care for all congenital and acquired cardiac defects. Learn about pediatric heart surgery here.

Cataracts

A clouding or opaque area over the lens of the eye, preventing light passing through the lens to the retina, the light-sensitive lining in the back of the eye (uncommon in children).

Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT)

CPVT is a rare heart condition linked to rhythm problems and sudden death. We’re experts at genetic diagnosis and treating children and families with CPVT.

Cavernoma

Clusters of abnormally dilated thin-walled blood vessels, most often found in the brain and spinal cord; risk of hemorrhage over a lifetime is related to the location and number of clusters.

Ce-VUS

Ce-VUS stands for contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography. This is an exam that uses ultrasound technology to take real-time images of the urinary system. It shows how well the bladder and its connecting tubes (the urethra and the ureters) are working. This exam requires ultrasound imaging, inserting a catheter (thin tube) into your child’s...

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a chronic immune disorder where ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Learn more about causes, diagnosis, and treatment.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a skin infection that can affect children of all ages. It's caused by bacteria that enter the skin through a break in the skin. Learn more here.

Center for Childhood Resilience

Lurie Children's Center for Childhood Resilience is dedicated to promoting access to high-quality mental health services for children and adolescents across Illinois and nationwide.

Center for Transport Medicine

Lurie Children’s Center for Transport Medicine, a Midwest leader in neonatal and pediatric transport, offers ground and air critical care expertise 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Learn more.

Central Line Care

If your child has a central line, it's important to know how to properly care for it. Learn more about how to change the dressing and flush a central line.

Central Nervous System Tumors

Tumors of the brain and spinal cord; can be benign or malignant. CNS tumors are dangerous as any growth can affect the functioning of the nervous system tissues around it.

Cerebral Aneurysm

A weak or thin spot on a blood vessel in the brain that balloons out and fills with blood; can occur anywhere in the brain; more common in adults than in children.

Cerebral Palsy

A group of neurological (brain) disorders; a life-long condition affecting communication between the brain and the muscles, causing uncoordinated movement and posturing.

Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis (CTX)

What is Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis (CTX)? Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) is a rare genetic condition that affects the body's ability to metabolize cholesterol. This leads to a buildup of cholesterol in various tissues, including the brain, tendons and eyes. Symptoms of CTX can vary widely and often progress over time. Some common...

Chalazion

A painless persistent bump or swelling of the upper or lower eyelid, caused by a blockage of one of the glands in the eyelid. Treatment for a chalazion and a stye are similar.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease

Children with CMT disease may have difficulty with walking and navigating stairs, decreased endurance, trouble fastening buttons, writing or sustaining a grip on objects.

Chemical Burns of the Eye

A medical emergency, the child should receive immediate medical care as chemical burns can result in a loss of vision and even a loss of the eye itself, if not treated promptly.

Chest & Mediastinal Masses

Rare cysts and tumors forming between the sternum and the spinal column. In infants and young children, often form in the back of the mediastinum and are more often benign.

Chest Pain

Chest pain in children and teenagers is most commonly musculoskeletal, pulmonary, or idiopathic. It is rarely due to cardiac disease. Learn more about here.

Chest Wall Deformities Program

Lurie Children’s Chest Wall Deformities Program offers comprehensive care for children with chest wall abnormalities such as pectus excavatum (sunken chest) and pectus carinatum (pigeon chest).

Chiari Malformations

Defect in the back of the skull where the brain meets the spinal column, allowing a part of the cerebellum, the lowest portion of the brain, to protrude into the spinal column.

Chicago Area Pediatrics

Learn more about the comprehensive pediatric care and services available at Lurie Children's Chicago Area Pediatrics.

Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center (CCAC) Clinic Partnership

The Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center (CCAC) is partnering with Lurie Children's to provide services for children impacted by abuse. Read more.

Child Abuse Pediatrics

Lurie Children's specializes in child abuse prevention, treatment and research by collaborating with social services in the community.

Childhood Abdominal Pain

Children's abdominal pain is one of the most common gastrointestinal issues, especially in kids under 11. Learn more about the causes of stomach pain in kids.

Childhood Behavior Problems

Arguing, aggression, anger, and defiance are normal during growing years. However, a behavioral disorder may be diagnosed when disruptive behaviors last longer or become severe.

Childhood Glaucoma

A condition where the normal fluid pressure inside the eyes slowly rises — which normally flows in and out of the eye — not draining properly.

Childhood Heart Disease & Congenital Heart Defects

Childhood heart conditions can range from the most common to the most complex. Learn more about types of heart disease in children, signs, treatment and more.

Children’s OCD/Anxiety Spectrum & Tic Disorders (COAST) Program

Discover comprehensive care for OCD, anxiety, and tic disorders at Lurie Children's. Our specialized program offers expert diagnosis, treatment, and support for children and adolescents.

Cholestasis

A condition in which bile is not properly transported from the liver to the small intestine, which can be caused by several childhood diseases.

Cholesteatoma

Cholesteatoma (pronounced co-les-tee-ah-tow-mah) is a benign growth that must be removed because it damages the ear and may cause serious complications. Learn more.

Chordee

A condition where the penis curves in a downward direction, typically developing while the child is still in the womb. Severe cases can impact the functioning of the penis.

Chorea

A movement disorder where muscles of the face, arms and hands involuntarily contract in a random, uncontrolled way. There are two types of chorea, Huntington’s and Sydenham’s.

Chronic Cough

A cough lasting for eight weeks or longer. Sometimes accompanied by a stuffy nose, excessive mucus in the throat, shortness of breath, wheezing, or heartburn.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

When fatigue persists longer than six months, has no obvious cause and is associated with complaints such as “mental fogginess,” a sense of not feeling well after exertion or sleep.

Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD) Program

Lurie Children’s Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD) Program is well-equipped to treat this serious condition, a known complication of allogeneic stem cell transplant.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children prevents the kidneys from properly filtering wastes out of blood. Learn more about causes, symptoms and treatment.

Chronic Pain Treatment Program

Lurie Children's Chronic Pain Treatment Program is one of the nation's leading programs for innovative pain medicine evaluation and treatment of children.

Circumcision

The Newborn Circumcision Clinic at Lurie Children’s offers expert surgical skills to perform the circumcision and detailed follow-up care. Learn more.

Clavicle Fracture/Broken Collar Bone

The most frequently fractured bone during childhood, the clavicle is an S-shaped bone that connects the breastbone to the shoulder blade; most fractures occur in the middle of the bone.

Cleft Lip & Cleft Palate

Cleft lip or cleft palate is a condition in which parts of the lip and/or palate (the roof of the mouth) do not develop properly early in a pregnancy. Learn more.

Cleft Lip & Palate Repair Program

Our multidisciplinary team lead by plastic surgeons provides a full spectrum of care to children with cleft lip and cleft palate from birth through adulthood.

Cleft Palate Speech & Resonance Program

Lurie Children’s Pediatric Speech-Resonance Team is a multidisciplinary program specializing in the evaluation and treatment of children with resonance disorders.

Clinical Neurophysiology Laboratory

Specialists from Lurie Children’s Division of Neurology analyze and monitor the nervous system function of patients with neurological diseases and conditions to optimize treatment.

Cloacal Anomalies

Cloacal anomalies are congenital malformations where the digestive, urinary, and reproductive tracts share a single opening. Learn more.

CLOVES Syndrome

One of a group of syndromes known as overgrowth syndromes. CLOVES is an acronym and each letter represents a characteristic seen in the syndrome.

Clubfoot

A foot deformity in which the foot is twisted and bent. Detected at birth, it affects the bones, muscles, tendons, and blood vessels and can affect one or both feet.

Clubfoot Program

Lurie Children’s offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary program for clubfoot, a congenital condition that can affect one or both feet in newborns.

Coarctation of the Aorta

Coarctation of the aorta occurs when the aorta is pinched or constricted. This constriction is usually occurs between the upper and lower half of the body.

Cochlear Implant Program

Lurie Children’s Cochlear Implant Program is one of the largest pediatric implant and most experienced programs in the world, performing more than 1,000 cochlear procedures since 1991.

Colic

A problem affecting some babies during the first three to four months of life; prolonged or excessive crying in an infant who is otherwise well.

Collaborative Advanced Reconstructive Evaluation (CARE) Clinic

We provide comprehensive care for children with complex medical needs at Lurie Children's CARE Clinic. Learn more today.

Colorectal Center

The Colorectal Center treats colorectal conditions, Hirschsprung's disease, anorectal malformations and spinal cord anomalies. Learn how we can help.

Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS)

Learn about Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS), a genetic condition where 46,XY individuals have typical female external genitalia due to testosterone insensitivity. Learn about its causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Complete or Partial Gonadal Dysgenesis

A congenital disorder affecting the development of external genitalia, from genetically male individuals having either nearly complete female genitalia or nearly complete male genitalia.

Complex Care Program

Learn about our comprehensive support and coordination for children with complex medical needs at Lurie Children's Complex Care Program.

Complex Congenital Heart Disease Care Center

Lurie Children’s Complex Congenital Heart Disease Care Center offers a multidisciplinary approach to care for children with a wide range of complex congenital heart defects.

Complex Movement Disorders Program

Lurie Children’s Pediatric Complex Movement Disorders Program provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of disorders leading to too much movement, too little movement or problems with balance and coordination.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Previously known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), is a chronic condition with pain out of proportion to the severity of the initial injury, typically getting worse with time.

Comprehensive Chronic Abdominal Pain Program

Abdominal pain impacts many kids and teenagers and is one of the most common reasons for referral to pediatric gastroenterology – accounting for almost 50% of all referrals. Learn more about treatment offered through Lurie Children's Chronic Abdominal Pain Program.

Comprehensive Hepatobiliary Surgical Program

Learn more about the Hepatobiliary Surgical Program at Lurie Children's, one of the world's premier programs for complex pediatric liver and bile tract surgery.

Computerized Tomography (CT)​

A CT scan, also called a CAT scan, gives your doctor a closer look at your child's internal organs, bony anatomy, blood vessels and soft tissues, with more detail than a general x-ray.

Concussion

A concussion is a brain injury that temporarily changes the way the brain works. The symptoms can be subtle. Learn more about concussions in kids and teens.

Concussion Program

The concussion clinic at Lurie Children’s Institute for Sports Medicine is uniquely qualified to evaluate, manage & treat concussions in children & adolescents.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

A disorder in which the body’s two adrenal glands have an enzyme-making defect. Without the enzymes, the adrenals can't make the hormones cortisol, aldosterone and androgens.

Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome

A genetic condition in which the brain fails to control breathing to maintain healthy levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide, causing oxygen to decrease and carbon dioxide to increase.

Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

CDH is a defect where the diaphragm doesn’t fully close, leaving a gap between the chest and abdomen. Learn more today.

Congenital Eye Diseases

Congenital eye diseases can affect any part of the eye and are often associated with cloudiness, increased eye pressure, irregularly shaped pupil, opacities in the lens, abnormalities of the retina and under development of the optic nerve.

Congenital Hand Differences

Abnormalities of the hand are common (occurring in 2.3 per 1,000 births), taking many forms, but most of these conditions are relatively minor, not affecting function.

Congenital Hemangioma

A tumor made up of blood vessels, present when a child is born and usually not continuing to grow after birth; less common than infantile hemangiomas.

Congenital Muscular Torticollis

Congenital muscular torticollis is a condition in which an infant's neck muscle is shortened, causing the neck to twist. Learn more about causes, symptoms & treatment.

Congenital Portosystemic Shunts (Abernethy Malformation)

The Abernethy malformation, or a congenital (from birth) portosystemic venous shunt, is a rare deformity of the blood vessels in the abdomen. Learn more.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, also known as "pink eye," is an inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye. Learn more about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Connective Tissue Disorders Program

Lurie Children’s Connective Tissue Disorder Program provides comprehensive care and genetic counseling to patients with connective tissue disorders. Learn more.

Constipation

Constipation in kids is quite common, but can lead to complications. Learn more about the causes and symptoms of children's constipation, and remedies to help.

Constipation Management Program (iPoop)

Our Constipation Management Program (iPoop) uses up-to-date evidence-based guidelines to treat chronic constipation in pediatric patients. Learn more here.

Cooperative Sickle Cell Donor Program

The Sickle Cell Donor Program was started by Lurie Children’s and the American Red Cross to improve transfusion support for children with sickle cell disease.

Corneal Abrasions

A corneal abrasion is a scratch or injury to the cornea, which is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. Learn more about treatment in kids.

Corneal Infection (Keratitis, Corneal Ulcer)

A corneal infection (also referred to as keratitis) is wide-spread inflammation or infection of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. A corneal ulcer is infection in a specific area of the cornea and is often found with a corneal abrasion (or scratch). Learn more.

Coronary Artery Anomalies Program

Lurie Children’s Coronary Artery Anomalies Program is dedicated to the diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of children with coronary artery anomalies.

Costello Syndrome

Costello syndrome is a genetic disorder that is a part of a larger group of conditions called RASopathies. Learn more about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Cranial & Facial Asymmetry

Cranial and facial asymmetry are very common in infants due to the "softness" of the skull bones at birth. Learn more about causes, treatment & prevention.

Critical Care

The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Lurie Children's uses innovative equipment and top quality care to save the lives of critically ill children.

Crohn's Disease

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease usually involving the small intestine, most often the lower part called the ileum. Also called ileitis or enteritis.

Crossed-Eyes (Strabismus)

Strabismus (crossed eyes) is a condition in which the eyes do not point in the same direction. Learn more about different types, causes, diagnosis, treatment.

Croup

Croup is a viral infection most common in children that causes swelling of the upper airway and respiratory issues including a barking cough.

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is characterized by recurrent spells of severe nausea and intense vomiting, a common disorder affecting many children. Learn more.

Cystic Fibrosis

A genetic disease that causes the body to make thick, sticky mucus. In the lungs, causes infections and loss of function. In the pancreas, keeps enzymes from digesting food.

Cystic Fibrosis Center

Lurie Children's has the largest accredited treatment center in Illinois committed to customized treatment of cystic fibrosis in children.

Cystic Fibrosis Genetic Carrier Testing for Parents

Medical technology now offers information about the future health of individuals and can be used to detect cystic fibrosis.

Cysts & Tumors of the Face & Jaws

Cysts (fluid-filled sacs) and tumors (lumps of tissue) cause swelling, pain and tenderness. Sometimes discovered on dental x-rays and others on examination.

Delayed Puberty (Late Puberty)

When the body's timing for sexual maturity is later than usual, a concern may be that puberty does not start or that it stalls after it started.

Dental Cavities

Holes or structural damage in the teeth, normally caused by decay brought on by the presence of bacteria, acid, food pieces and saliva, which combine to form plaque on teeth.

Dental Infections (Odontogenic Infection)

Caused by bacteria penetrating deep into the tooth or gums, typically including dental caries and periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Can spread elsewhere in the body.

Dentistry

Lurie Children's Division of Pediatric Dentistry provides comprehensive and preventive oral health care for infants, children and teens and patients with special needs, treating more pediatric patients than any other dental service in Illinois.

Department of Surgery

The Department of Surgery at Lurie Children’s is led by Thomas H. Inge, MD, PhD.

Dermatology

Lurie Children's provides pediatric dermatology services, diagnostics and therapeutics for infants, children and adolescents with skin disorders. Learn more.

Dermoid Cysts

A dermoid cyst is a benign growth made up of hairs, sweat glands and sebaceous glands. Learn more about the symptoms and treatment of pediatric dermoid cysts.

Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics

The Division of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics provides care for children with conditions associated with developmental delay and/or behavior concerns.

Developmental Coordination Disorder

A disorder characterized by poor motor coordination that interferes with the child’s daily activities and academic achievements.

Developmental Delays

There are several kinds of developmental delays a child may experience, some of which have biological causes, others may be environmental in nature. Learn more.

Developmental Evaluations

Similar to neuropsychological evaluations, developmental evaluations use psychological tests to examine a child's mental abilities in order to diagnose and manage conditions affecting brain functioning.

Deviated Septum

Deviated septum is an abnormal shape of the cartilage that divides the nose, and may cause congestion, problems with breathing, or nasal discharge. Learn more.

Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is the most common type of diabetes in children and teens. Type 2 diabetes has also become a health problem for children and teens in recent years.

Diabetes Program

By offering medical consultation, diagnosis, education, advice, guidelines and support, our diabetes program helps children with diabetes lead successful lives.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the retina of the eye due to long-term high blood sugars. Learn more.

Diagnostic Tests for Digestive & Liver Conditions

Lurie Children's offers diagnostic procedures for various digestive and liver conditions.

Dialysis Program

Lurie Children’s Dialysis Program provides in-center hemodialysis, as well as training and care for home-based peritoneal and hemodialysis.

Diaphragm Pacing

Diaphragm pacing, a form of artificial ventilation, uses implanted electrodes to stimulate the muscles of the diaphragm to contract, helping patients breathe.

Diarrhea

Watery stool or increased frequency of bowel movements (or both) when compared to a normal amount.

Differences of Sex Development

A fetus may develop along a path that is not the typical one for a boy or a girl. When sex development follows a less common path, the result is a difference of sex development.

Double Inlet Left Ventricle (DILV)

Learn about Double inlet left ventricle, a rare congenital heart defect in which the child develops only one ventricle - the pumping chamber of the heart.

Double Outlet Right Ventricle (DORV)

Double Outlet Right Ventricle (DORV) is a congenital heart defect in which both the aorta and the pulmonary artery are connected to the right ventricle.

Down Syndrome Clinic

The Down Syndrome Clinic, a subspecialty program within the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, offers specialized services as well as interdisciplinary and comprehensive evaluations for children with Down syndrome and their families, providing care from birth through late adolescence.

Dravet Clinic

The Dravet Clinic at Lurie Children’s Epilepsy Center is committed to providing high-quality care to patients with Dravet syndrome.

Droopy Eyelid (Ptosis)

Droopy eyelids (also known as ptosis) may be a congenital or acquired condition. Learn more.

Drug Allergy

A group of symptoms caused by a reaction to a medication where the body's immune system may produce antibodies against a drug.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

A form of muscular dystrophy, an inherited disease occurring in about 1 out of every 3,600 male infants. It worsens more quickly than other types of muscular dystrophy.

Dural Sinus Malformations

Dural sinus malformations (DSMs), a type of AV shunt, are very rare congenital cerebrovascular malformation. Learn more about causes, diagnosis, and treatment.

Dysfunctional Voiding

Voiding dysfunction is a condition where the bladder does not empty correctly. Learn more about void dysfunction causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment here.

Dysphagia

The inability of food or liquids to pass easily from the mouth, into the throat and down into the esophagus to the stomach during the process of swallowing.

Ear Deformities

Currently, up to 30% of births result in ear deformities. Of this number, 70% of the deformities stay the same or get worse as the baby grows.

Ear Tube Placement

Ear tubes are small tubes that are surgically placed into your child's eardrum by an ear, nose and throat surgeon during a myringotomy. Learn more.

Earwax Buildup (Cerumen Impaction)

Earwax buildup can block the ear canal and lead to ringing in the ear, itching, hearing loss, pain, discharge, odor and cough.

Eating Disorder Program

Eating disorders affect many children and adolescents. Learn how our Eating Disorder Program offers comprehensive care tailored to your family's needs.

Ebola

Not as contagious as the flu because it doesn’t spread through the air, ebola is spread only through direct contact with the infected person’s blood and body fluids.

Ebstein's Anomaly

A congenital downward displacement of the tricuspid valve (between the heart's upper and lower chambers on the right side) into the heart's right bottom chamber (or right ventricle).

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram, echo or heart ultrasound, is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves provide cardiologists with moving images of your child's heart.

ECMO

Pediatric ECMO is a temporary cardiopulmonary bypass to support a patients with heart or lung failure. Learn more here.

Eczema

Atopic dermatitis, an inflammation that causes dry, itchy skin.

Eczema Program

Our experts provide thorough evaluation and comprehensive treatment of your child’s eczema (atopic dermatitis).

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Also called cutis elastic, a group of genetic disorders affecting the connective tissues of the body, especially the skin, joints, and the walls of blood vessels.

Electrocardiogram

An electrocardiogram is one of the simplest procedures used to evaluate the heart, taking only five to 10 minutes. The tracings allow the physician to see abnormal heartbeats that may indicate a heart problem.

Electrophysiology Program

The Electrophysiology (EP) Program team at Lurie Children’s diagnoses and treats abnormal heart rhythms. We also provide invasive correction of the heart rhythm through cardiac ablation and implantation of cardiac rhythm devices. Learn more.

Emergency Medicine

The board certified team in the pediatric emergency room at Lurie Children's perform life saving services to children 24 hours a day.

Encephalitis

Encephalitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the brain, usually resulting from an infection. Learn more about encephalitis in children here.

Encopresis

Encopresis is chronic stool leakage that develops due to chronic constipation. Learn about causes and treatment in children.

Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an inflammation of the layer of cells lining the inside of the heart muscle and valves, and can be infective or noninfective. Learn more here.

Endocrinology

The pediatric endocrinologists at Lurie Children's rank nationally for techniques shown to improve outcomes for children with endocrine disorders. Learn more.

Endoscopic Ear Surgery Program

The Endoscopic Ear Surgery Program is led by Stephen R. Hoff, MD, FACS, FAAP, a Pediatric Otolaryngologist with expertise in transcanal endoscopic ear surgery.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

The purpose of endoscopic sinus surgery is to open the passages of the sinuses allowing for proper drainage to the nose.

ENT (Otolaryngology)

The Division of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery provides medical & surgical treatment for children with disorders of the ears, nose and throat (ENT).

Enuresis (Nighttime Wetting)

Nighttime wetting (also known as enuresis) is the involuntary emptying of the bladder.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic allergic disease of the esophagus, marked by food impaction, difficulty swallowing, and acid reflux. Learn more here.

Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases Program​​

Lurie Children's Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases (EGID) Program is devoted to the comprehensive care and research of pediatric EGID. Learn more.

Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders

Chronic, inflammatory diseases characterized by an elevated number of eosinophils — a type of white blood cell — in one or more areas in the digestive system.

Epilepsy

Childhood epilepsy is a condition in which two or more seizures occur without a specific cause. Learn about pediatric epilepsy causes, symptoms and treatment.

Epilepsy Genetics Testing & Consultation Clinic

The epilepsy genetic consultation provides a consultation for children with known genetic epilepsy syndromes. The epilepsy genetics testing clinic provides evaluation and support for children and families with known or suspected genetic epilepsy syndrome.

Epilepsy Neuro-Oncology Clinic

The Epilepsy Neuro-Oncology Clinic provides comprehensive care to patients with brain tumor related epilepsy by offering coordinated care for epilepsy, oncology, and neurosurgery.

Epilepsy Program

The Pediatric Epilepsy Center at Lurie Children's provides the highest quality treatment of epilepsy in children. Learn about the center here.

Epilepsy Surgery

In the best cases, medication can be used to manage seizures. But when it doesn't, surgery may offer the best option for control or elimination of seizures.

Epilepsy Tuberous Sclerosis Clinic

Lurie Children’s Epilepsy Multidisciplinary TSC Clinic’s goal is to provide quality care to individuals with TSC, manage research that will contribute to better treatment and a cure for TSC, and provide a complete medical team to coordinate treatment for all aspects of TSC.

Ethics Program

When you face an ethical dilemma concerning your child's care, Lurie Children's Ethics Advisory Board is here to help.

Ewing Sarcoma

A cancer that occurs primarily in the bone or soft tissue, most often found in the extremities and can involve muscle and the soft tissues around the tumor site.

Excessive Thoracic Kyphosis

“Kyphosis” refers to the contour of the upper spine. Excessive thoracic kyphosis, a condition common in adolescents, gives people a “humpbacked” appearance.

Exercise Laboratory & Stress Test

An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to stress or exercise. An electrocardiogram (ECG) is monitored while children exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike.

Exercise-Induced Asthma

A condition triggered by physical activity, it causes the small breathing tubes to tighten, making it difficult for air to leave the lungs. Also called exercise-induced bronchospasm.

Extra Teeth (Supernumerary Teeth, Hyperdontia)

A condition in which the jaws contain more teeth – usually permanent teeth – than usual. Extra teeth are usually categorized in two ways, by their shape and by their position.

Extracorporeal Photopheresis (ECP) Program

Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a temporary cardiopulmonary bypass to support a patient with heart or lung failure. Learn more here.

Eyelid Lacerations

Eyelid lacerations are cuts to the eyelid caused by trauma. These cuts often require surgery to ensure the eyelid heals well and functions properly. 

Fabry Disease

Fabry disease is a rare genetic disease that runs in families. People affected by the disease cannot breakdown (metabolize) a fat called globotriaosylcermide (GL3). Read more.

Facial Paralysis in Children

A condition that may be present at birth, such as Moebius syndrome, or acquired later, such as following removal of facial tumors near the nerves that move the facial muscles.

Failure to Thrive

A condition that occurs when a baby does not gain weight and grow normally; caused by many factors, including disease or poor nutrition.

Families with Cardiomyopathy Clinic

Lurie Children's Families with Cardiomyopathy Clinic offers evaluation and treatment for patients with familial cardiomyopathy. In our unique approach, the whole family is seen during the same clinic visit.

Fanconi Anemia

A bone-marrow-failure disorder that may cause deformities and abnormalities throughout the body.

Febrile Seizure

A febrile seizure is a seizure that occurs in a child with a fever or elevated temperature. Learn more.

Feed & Swaddle for MRI and CT Exams

For infants referred to Lurie Children's for an MRI or CT exam, we use a technique called "feed and swaddle" to help babies remain still for the exam without having to give them medication or anesthesia

Feeding & Swallowing Problems

Both behavioral and physiological issues can affect childhood eating, resulting in either the refusal or inability to eat foods normally.

Feeding & Swallowing Therapy

If your child is experiencing feeding and/or swallowing difficulties, Lurie Children's Feeding & Swallowing Therapy specialists can assess your child's eating and develop a plan for treatment.

Feeding Tube Care

Children with feeding tubes need care tailored to their specific needs. Learn about Lurie Children's recommendations for caring for children with feeding tubes.

Feeding, Swallowing & Nutrition Disorders Program

Lurie Children's Feeding, Swallowing & Nutrition Disorders Program evaluates and treats children with conditions that include dysphagia, feeding aversion, failure to thrive and related disorders.

Female Athlete Triad

A syndrome consisting of three related conditions: disordered eating habits, irregular or absent menstrual periods, and osteopenia (thinning of the bones).

Femoral Anteversion

A common developmental problem in children, also called intoeing, where the top of the thigh bone (femur) is rotated, causing the foot to turn in.

Fertility & Hormone Preservation & Restoration Program

Lurie Children’s fertility program is the only one of its kind for pediatric patients in the state of Illinois, offering solutions to both male and female cancer survivors with fertility issues.

Fetal & Neonatal Cardiology

The Fetal Cardiology Program ensures that families expecting a baby with heart concerns receive the best diagnostic and counseling care available.

Fetal & Neonatal Neurology Program

Lurie Children's Division of Neurology offers access to fetal and neonatal neurologists who provide innovative, individualized treatments with the goal of helping newborns achieve their best outcomes. 

Fetal Abdominal Cysts

A fetal abdominal cyst is a generic term that describes an abnormal fluid-filled bubble-like mass in the fetal abdomen. Learn more.

Fetal Cardiac Arrhythmia

Fetal arrhythmia refers to an irregular heartbeat or an abnormal heart rhythm in an unborn baby. Learn more about detection, prevention and treatment.

Fetal Cardiac Intervention Program

Our Fetal Cardiac Intervention Program provides advanced prenatal care for congenital heart conditions, improving outcomes before birth.

Fetal Chronic Idiopathic Pseudo-obstruction

A disorder in which part of the intestines function poorly as if they are obstructed, but there is no mechanical cause for the dysfunction.

Fetal Craniosynostosis

Fetal craniosynostosis is a congenital defect characterized by the bones of the skull closing while the baby is still in the womb. Learn more here.

Fetal Duplication of Collection Systems

The development of two ureters for one kidney, each one draining separately into the bladder, often associated with fetal ureterocele, a malformation of the ureter entering the bladder.

Fetal Echocardiogram

A fetal echocardiogram (or echo) is a specialized ultrasound examination of the unborn baby’s heart used to identify fetal heart defects. Learn more here.

Fetal Gastroschisis

A congenital defect in a baby's abdominal wall that allows the infant's intestines to protrude into the amniotic sac, causing them to cease their normal movement.

Fetal Health

The Chicago Institute for Fetal Health offers comprehensive pre-birth counseling and pediatric care planning for pregnant women with fetal complications.

Fetal Hydrocephalus

The buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, resulting from a lack of absorption, blockage or overproduction. Can cause increased pressure and expansion of the skull.

Fetal Hydronephrosis

Fetal hydronephrosis is the swelling of the kidney when too much urine collects in the pelvis (or basin) of the kidney. Learn more about causes and symptoms.

Fetal Imaging

The Chicago Institute for Fetal Health can provide additional imaging when physicians or patients would like a second opinion or advanced imaging during pregnancy.

Fetal Intestinal Atresia

A congenital defect in which a part of the intestines fails to form properly, resulting in an obstruction or blockage.

Fetal Lung Lesions: CPAM, BPS & Hybrid Lesions

There are three types of fetal lung lesions: congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM), bronchopulmonary sequestration (BPS) and hybrid lesions. Read more.

Fetal Lung Masses & Cysts

There are two different types of fetal lung masses: the first is a congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation and the other is a bronchopulmonary sequestration.

Fetal Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney

A malformation of the kidney during fetal development, resulting in irregular cysts that resemble a bunch of grapes. The cysts serve no function, rendering the kidney useless.

Fetal Omphalocele

A congenital defect of the abdominal wall allowing some abdominal organs to protrude through it. A translucent membrane or sac covers the protruding organs.

Fetal Pelvic Kidney & Horseshoe Kidney

A condition that results when the kidneys fail to ascend to their normal position above the waist and remain in the pelvis because they are blocked by blood vessels in the aorta.

Fetal Posterior Urethral Valves

A congenital defect in males, resulting in obstruction of the bladder due to extra tissue projecting into the urethra. Excess tissue blocks the free flow of urine from the bladder.

Fetal Pyelectasis/Pelviectasis

A mild enlargement of the center of the kidney, not to be confused with fetal hydronephrosis, which is an extreme ballooning of the kidney.

Fetal Tracheoesophageal Fistula

A congenital defect in which the trachea and the esophagus (which start out as one tube), do not split successfully into two separate tubes, leaving an abnormal connection.

Fetal Ureterocele

A balloon-like malformation of the area where a ureter, the tube from the kidney, enters the bladder. This causes problems by blocking the normal flow of urine from the kidney.

Fetal Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction

When the urine cannot flow freely into the ureter due to a blockage, such as a kink in the ureter or a narrowing where the ureter meets the renal pelvis, the “ureteropelvic junction.”

Fetal Urinary Reflux

When urine flows “backward” in the system, possibly causing infection and pressure damage to the sensitive tissues of the kidney. It is often corrected by surgery.

Fetal Ventriculomegaly

A congenital brain condition, causing enlargement of the fluid-filled spaces in the brain, inadequate brain development or destruction of brain tissue.

Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)

Lurie Children's multidisciplinary Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) service provides comprehensive evaluation and management of children with swallowing problems such as dysphagia​ and choking on food.

Flexible Flat Feet (Pes Planus)

When the arch seems to disappear as the foot comes in contact with the ground, causing the ankle to roll inward (pronation).

Fluency & Stuttering Therapy Program

Evaluations at Lurie Children's are done by speech-language pathologists certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and specializing in diagnosing and treating preschool, school-age and adolescents who stutter.

Fluorescence-Guided Surgery Program

Fluorescence-guided surgery at Lurie Children’s is an enhancement of traditional surgical techniques that provides surgeons with new layers of information to improve surgical safety and clinical outcomes. Learn more.

Focal Segmental Glomerular Sclerosis (FSGS)

A pattern of kidney damage and a common cause of nephrotic syndrome, occurring when the body loses large amounts of protein into the urine, resulting in swelling of the body.

Fontan Futures℠ Initiative

Working with Prentice Women’s Hospital and the Heart Center at Lurie Children’s, this Initiative helps families expecting a child with only one ventricle save cord blood and heart tissue for use in emerging therapies in coming years.

Food Allergy

Food allergy is caused by an immune response that occurs after exposure to a specific food. There are now about 6 million children in the U.S. with food allergy. Learn more.

Food Allergy Program

The experts at Lurie Children's Food Allergy Program provide evaluation services and comprehensive treatment for children with food allergies.

Food Allergy Support & Education (FASE) Program

Lurie Children's Food Allergy Support and Education Program educates and supports our patients and families affected by food protein-induced immune disorders.

Food Elimination Diets

The specialists at Lurie Children's treat pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis.

Foreign Bodies in the Eyes

Objects such as dust and sand may be flushed out with eye drops or water. If vision decreases, eyes are red or painful, there is discharge, trauma or bulging, see a healthcare provider.

Forensic Assessment for Immigration Relief (FAIR) Clinic

The FAIR Clinic is a staff-run clinic dedicated to providing forensic medical and psychological evaluations free of charge to child and adolescent survivors of torture, persecution, or other human rights abuses who are seeking asylum in the United States. Learn more.

Fracture Clinic

Fractures in children are a common occurrence that may require surgery and/or casting. Learn more about the pediatric fracture clinic at Lurie Children's here.

Fractures and Broken Bones

At Lurie Children’s, we provide personalized care for fractures and broken bones in children. Learn about causes, symptoms and treatments. Access expert care locally.

Fragility Fractures

Fragility fractures are broken bones, or fractures, that happen following a low trauma event. Examples of low trauma events would be falls from a standing height or less. Learn more.

Freiberg Infraction

A condition affecting the metatarsal bones of the foot, most commonly the bone underneath the second toe. The rounded end or ‘head’ of the bone collapses and flattens.

Functional Neurological Disorder

Discover symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for children and adolescents with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).

Gait Abnormalities

Pediatric gait abnormalities are problems with the way a child or teen walks, such as toe-walking or limping. Learn more about abnormal gait in children here.

Ganglion Cysts

Lumps that form under the skin, usually on top of the wrist, usually round or oval shape, and varying from the size of a pea to about an inch in diameter.

Gastroenterology & GI Surgery

The nationally ranked Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition offers cutting-edge treatments for pediatric digestive disorders. Learn more here.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

A digestive disorder caused by gastric acid flowing from the stomach into the esophagus. Gastroesophageal refers to the stomach and esophagus, and reflux is backflow.

Gaucher Disease

A deficiency of the enzyme beta-glucosidase, which breaks down a specific fatty substance, allowing it to accumulate in the body, resulting in anemia, low platelet count, etc.

Gender Development Program

Lurie Children’s outpatient services are here to support the physical, mental and social health of youth as they progress through gender identity.

Gene and Cellular Medicine Program

The Center for Genetic and Cellular Medicine at Lurie Children's is committed to advancing treatment of conditions amenable to gene and cell-based therapy.

Genetic Counselors & Genetic Counseling

Lurie Children's Genetic Counselors help families with genetic conditions by providing education, support, and advocacy.

Genetic Screening

Contact your physician if you have symptoms or physical signs that you suspect may be related to a genetic disorder.

Genetics Laboratory Services

Licensed physicians at Lurie Children's perform laboratory procedures upon request.

Genetics, Genomics & Metabolism

Lurie Children's Division of Genetics, Genomics and Metabolism provides a full range of services for the diagnosis & treatment of pediatric genetic disorders.

Germ Cell Tumors

Malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) tumors that are composed mostly of germ cells — cells in the unborn baby that become the reproductive system.

Giant Congenital Nevi

When a birthmark, or nevus, covers more than 2% of a patient’s total body surface area, or if it is larger than the palm of a child’s hand, it is considered a giant nevus.

Glomerulonephropathy and Glomerulonephritis

Diseases of the glomeruli — the mass of tiny, semipermeable tubes deep in the kidneys through which the blood passes, filtering out water and soluble wastes.

Glucose Intolerance

A metabolic condition also known as impaired glucose tolerance in which the body cannot absorb or metabolize sugars from carbohydrates sufficiently.

Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD)

Resulting when a patient receives transplanted tissue from another person, most often occurring after a stem cell (bone marrow) transplant from a donor other than oneself.

Growing Pains

A common pain syndrome that occurs in children. Not a result of a disease or other condition, nor do they lead to any injury or damage to the bones or joints.

Growth Problems

Growth rate is influenced by heredity, gender, environmental factors and nutrition. Sometimes, medical conditions stop a child from growing at a normal rate.

Guidance & Planning in Advanced CKD (GAP) Program

Learn about the GAP Program at Lurie Children’s, providing expert guidance and care planning for children with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Guillain-Barré Syndrome

A rare auto-immune disorder which damages the coverings of the peripheral nerves and causes muscle weakness and occasionally paralysis.

Gymnast’s Wrist (Distal Radial Epiphysitis)

Irritation and inflammation of the growth plate (epiphysis) at the end of the radius (forearm bone) where it connects to the hand to form the wrist.

Hand & Wrist Tendon Injuries

Injuries to the tendons of the hand and wrist can be caused by several things, from repetitive motion to tears to deep lacerations.

Head & Neck Surgery Program

The Lurie Children’s Head & Neck Surgery Program is a national leader in the treatment of children with congenital and acquired lesions of the head, neck, and face.

Head Injury in Babies & Children

Most head injuries in children and babies are not life-threatening, but should still be monitored carefully. Learn more about symptoms and when to seek help.

Head Lice

Insects that invade the scalp and cause the child to itch and scratch the scalp. Lice eggs (nits) firmly attach to the hair and appear as small white dots.

Head Shape Anomalies

In the first two years of age, a child's skull is soft and vulnerable, leaving them at risk for developing abnormal head shapes. Learn about types & treatments.

Head Shape Evaluation Program

Lurie Children's Head Shape Program offers a team of medical and surgical professionals who evaluate and treat infants with cranial asymmetry from any cause.

Headache Program

Pediatric headache and migraine are common complaints among children requiring special attention. Lurie Children’s Pediatric Headache Program aims to find the most therapeutic treatment plan for every patient. Read more.

Headaches

Learn about headaches in children, including types, causes and treatments. Find effective pain management solutions and discover how Lurie Children’s can help.

Hearing Aids

Any child who has a hearing loss that may interfere with speech and language development, or who has a loss that interferes with their classroom performance, may need to wear a hearing aid.

Heart Attack

Heart attack in teens is rare, but congenital heart conditions can cause sudden cardiac arrest. We diagnose and treat these conditions.

Heart Block

Heart block causes an abnormal heartbeat. A baby can be born with it, or a person may acquire later. Our electrophysiologists diagnose and treat heart block.

Heart Failure

Pediatric heart failure occurs when the heart isn’t pumping enough blood to the body. Children in heart failure need help from experienced pediatric specialists.

Heart Murmur

Heart murmur is the sound of blood flow in the chest heard through a stethoscope, and does not necessarily mean an abnormality. Learn about heart murmurs in kids.

Heart Transplant Program

The Pediatric Heart Transplantation Program at Lurie Children's in Chicago is the largest & most experienced in the region, renowned for handling complex cases.

Heart Tumors

Heart tumors, including rhabdomyoma, are rare in kids and usually benign. We’re able to treat even the most complex tumors that require surgery.

Heat Illness

A group of conditions which occur when the body is heated at a high rate and cannot cool itself fast enough.

Helicobacter Pylori

A spiral-shaped bacterium found in the stomach, which (along with acid secretion) damages stomach and duodenal tissue, causing inflammation and peptic ulcers.

Hemangiomas

Collections of extra blood vessels in the skin. One of the most common skin problems in the first year of life.

Hematological Malignancy Program

Learn about pediatric leukemia and lymphoma treatment at Lurie Children's, where families can find advanced care and compassionate support for young patients.

Hematometrocolpos

A rare condition which occurs when the uterus fills with menstrual blood. Symptoms are typically a lack of a menstrual period, recurrent pelvic pain, and a pelvic mass.

Hematuria

Pediatric hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine in children. It can be caused by many things, including, infections and kidney diseases. Learn more.

Hemifacial Microsomia

A condition in which a child is born with the lower half of their face underdeveloped, most commonly their ears, jaw and mouth; eyes, cheeks and neck may also be affected.

Hemolytic Anemia

A general term describing a condition in which red blood cells are broken down faster than the bone marrow is able to produce them.

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)

A rare blood disorder, seen more often in children than adults, in which the body produces too many immune cells, which then attack the body’s own tissues and organs.

Hemophilia

An inherited bleeding disorder characterized by low levels or complete absence of specific proteins in the blood that are necessary for prevention of excessive bleeding.

Hemophilia Program

Lurie Children's Hemophilia Program provides dedicated services in a family-friendly environment to promote the health and well-being of children and adolescents with hemophilia, von Willebrand disease or platelet disorders.

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver resulting in liver cell damage and destruction. Hepatitis often originates from a virus and can be spread from your child to others.

Hepatoblastoma

Hepatoblastoma is a very rare cancerous tumor that originates in the liver and primarily affects children ages 5 and below. Learn more about symptoms & treatment.

Hepatoblastoma Program

Lurie Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders treats more children with cancer and blood disorders than any other hospital in Illinois, caring for children with this rare cancer originating in the liver.

Hernias

A hernia is a protrusion of tissue or an organ through an opening or weakness in the muscle wall that usually contains it. Learn more about causes & treatment.

Heterotaxy

A condition in which the organs of the chest and abdomen are abnormally located, usually opposite their usual places. Typically affects the heart, lungs, liver, spleen, and intestines.

High Ankle Sprain (Syndesmosis Sprain)

An injury to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula just above the ankle joint. Compared to lateral ankle sprains, high ankle sprains are less common and longer to heal.

High-Risk Asthma Program

Read more about the High-Risk Asthma Program at Lurie Children’s, offering specialized care for children with severe asthma.

Hip Disorders

Common and with many causes. Not always easy to diagnose and may include hip pain, irritability, and difficulty in movement.

Hip Dysplasia

Occuring when a child’s hip joint has not formed properly, can range from the hip being slightly displaced to being dislocated easily.

Hip Spica Cast Care

Hip spica casts are applied after various types of leg surgeries. Learn more about the cast care.

Hirschsprung's Disease

Hirschsprung's disease occurs when the bowel wall of the intestine is missing essential cells, called ganglion cells, which leads to intestinal blockages.

HIV & STI Screening

The Division of Adolescent Medicine provides walk-in HIV/STI Screening for anyone age 12-24. Certified counselors will provide on-site, free, confidential tests as well as safer sex counseling.

HIV Prevention Program

Lurie Children's specialists are leaders in HIV prevention methods in children and research.

HIV/AIDS

A disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus which kills or impairs immune system cells and progressively destroys the body's ability to fight infections and cancers.

Hives (Urticaria)

A condition in which red, itchy, and swollen areas appear on the skin usually as an allergic reaction from eating certain foods or taking certain medications.

Hives Program

Get access to comprehensive care and treatment options for pediatric hives at Lurie Children's Hives Program.

Hodgkin Lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system in children, affecting white blood cells and immune function. Learn more about childhood Hodgkin lymphoma.

Holter & Event Monitoring

Holter monitoring & event monitoring are tests used to record a child's heartbeats for 24 hours or longer, allowing physicians to see abnormal beats or rhythms.

Horseshoe Kidney & Pelvic Kidney

Conditions that either result when the kidneys fail to ascend to their normal position above the waist and remain in the pelvis or when the developing kidneys fuse together.

Hospital-Based Medicine

Lurie Children's hospitalists are board-eligible/board-certified pediatricians who specialize in caring for hospitalized infants, children, and adolescents.

Hydration Assessment in Short Bowel Syndrome

Learn how to properly assess and hydrate children with short bowel syndrome with a short video produced by Lurie Children's.

Hydrocele

A space filled with fluid occurring below or next to a testicle in the male scrotum. It is usually painless, and is not to be confused with a hernia, but may occur along with one.

Hydrocephalus

The lack of absorption, blockage of flow, or overproduction of the cerebrospinal fluid that is found inside of the ventricles (fluid-filled areas) inside of the brain.

Hypercalcemia

Learn about hypercalcemia and its symptoms, causes, and treatments, and how our experts manage high calcium levels in children.

Hypertension

Usually used to mean elevated blood pressure, caused by resistance to blood flow in the body. May result from certain types of medication, anxiety, or kidney problems.

Hyperthyroidism

Too much thyroid hormone, pushing the body’s metabolism to unhealthy levels.

Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis

A narrowing of the lower portion of the stomach that leads into the small intestine, resulting in food not moving easily into the intestine for digestion.

Hypocalcemia

Learn about hypocalcemia, its causes, symptoms, and treatments. Discover how we diagnose and manage low calcium levels to support your child's health.

Hypophosphatasia (HPP)

Learn about hypophosphatasia (HPP), a rare genetic condition affecting bone strength in children.

Hypopituitarism

When a child's pituitary gland has lost its ability to make one, some or all pituitary hormones. The condition is often permanent, but very treatable.

Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

In hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), the left side of the heart, including the aorta, aortic valve, left ventricle and mitral valve, is underdeveloped.

Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome

A congenital heart defect in which the parts of the right side of the heart — the valves, right ventricle, and pulmonary artery — do not develop fully during pregnancy.

Hypospadias

Hypospadias is a condition in which the end of the urethra (the tube in the penis through which urine passes out of the body) is not located at the tip of the penis.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism in children occurs when thyroid gland is underactive and fails to make enough thyroid hormone. Learn more about causes, symptoms and treatment.

Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy

Death or long-term disability possibly caused by lack of blood flow or oxygen before, during or after birth, from a ruptured uterus, bleeding from the placenta, or cord accidents.

Ichthyosis

A genetic condition with thick, leathery skin, “ichthy” coming from the Greek word for fish, this condition is so named as the skin sometimes appears like fish scales.

Idiopathic Toe-walking

Persistent walking on the toes or the balls of the feet, fairly common in kids who are learning to walk.

Iliotibial (IT) Band Friction Syndrome

One of the leading causes of knee pain in runners, occurs when this tendon gets irritated or inflamed from overuse, causing pain and snapping on the outside of the knee.

Immediate Care

Lurie Children's pediatric immediate care centers have extended hours and provide urgent care services for children with unexpected illnesses and injuries.

Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a blood disorder in which scattered small purple spots appear on the skin, and can progress to more severe symptoms.

Indwelling Feeding Tubes

Lurie Children’s assists parents and caregivers in the proper use of this thin tube inserted into the nose or mouth, through the esophagus and into the stomach, delivering nourishment when other feeding methods are not available.

Infantile Hemangiomas

The most common vascular growth that is seen in infancy, a collection of enlarged blood vessels, may be present at birth but most develop within the first few weeks.

Infantile Spasms Clinic

The team behind Lurie Children’s Infantile Spasms (IS) Clinic has established a guideline and clinic for the diagnosis, etiological work-up, treatment, monitoring, and follow-up of infantile spasms that is supported by the best evidence and expert recommendations.

Infections in Newborns

A fetus and a newborn baby have limited ability to prevent and fight infectiou​s diseases. Special care may be needed for babies who develop an infection before, during, or after birth.

Infectious Diseases

The board-certified physicians at Lurie Children's specialize in treating common and rare pediatric infectious diseases.

Infectious Mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis, usually called simply “mono,” usually strikes between 15 and 25 years of age, but can be caught younger. Learn more.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, affects the digestive tract. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options at Lurie Children’s.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program

Lurie Children's Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program is a multidisciplinary program focusing on the care of children diagnosed with bowel disorders.

Influenza

Influenza, commonly referred to as "the flu," is a highly contagious respiratory virus that is common during the winter and early spring. Learn more about symptoms, treatment and prevention.

Influenza (Flu) Vaccine

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the influenza (flu) vaccination every year for most people age 6 months and older. Read more.

Inpatient Psychiatric Services

Lurie Children's Inpatient Psychiatric Program is a family-centered setting focusing on crisis stabilization, intensive evaluation and short-term treatment for problems affecting children and adolescents, ages 3-17.

Insomnia

A condition in which the child has trouble going to sleep or remaining asleep. It is common but not generally considered serious unless it causes issues with daytime functioning.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

The Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a space for children to attend therapy more frequently than traditional outpatient approaches and focus on anxiety, depressive, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.

Intermediate Care Unit

Lurie Children’s is now one of a handful of pediatric hospitals in the country that operates an Intermediate Care Unit (IMCU) – continuing on our mission to provide the right care for every patient.

Internal Snapping Hip Syndrome

Snapping sound occurring with flexion or extension of the hip, coming from the tendon of the hip flexor muscle as it moves through its normal motion across the hip joint.

International Adoptee Program

Lurie Children's Division of Infectious Diseases offers medical evaluations, review of immunization records and screening tests for diagnosis and treatment of diseases a child may have contracted in its country of birth.

Interventional Cardiology & Catheterization

Lurie Children's Heart Center team of interventional physicians performs more than 1,000 cardiac catheterizations on young patients with congenital heart disease each year.

Interventional Radiology

The pediatric interventional radiology division at Lurie Children's performs a full range of therapeutic and diagnostic procedures. Learn more today.

Intestinal Malrotation & Volvulus

A birth defect involving a malformation of the intestinal tract; it occurs while a fetus is forming in its mother's uterus.

Intestinal Rehabilitation Program

Lurie Children's Intestinal Rehabilitation Program is devoted to avoiding transplantation when possible using medical, surgical and nutritional rehabilitation strategies.

Intestinal Transplantation Program

Lurie Children's provides one of the rare treatment programs for children suffering from an improperly functioning small bowel.

Intussusception

The most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children between the ages of 3 months and 3 years, when one segment of the intestine slips inside another.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of symptoms affecting the large intestine (large bowel). Learn more about common symptoms and treatment in children.

Iselin Disease (Apophysitis of the Fifth Metatarsal)

Painful irritation and inflammation of the apophysis (growth plate) at the base of the 5th metatarsal (foot bone), where one of the calf muscles inserts.

Jaundice

Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes due to high levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream, and can be a sign of liver disease in children.

Jaw Deformities

Present at birth or appearing as the child grows, can cause chewing and eating problems, abnormal speech and eventually lead to the early loss of the child’s teeth.

Joint Hypermobility Syndrome

Describing joints that easily move beyond the normal range. It is commonly called being ‘double-jointed,’ although these individuals do not have two separate joints.

Juvenile Huntington Disease

A rare form of Huntington Disease that begins before the age of 20, occurring in about 10% of Huntington cases, a hereditary, degenerative disease.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) is form of arthritis in children 16 or younger. Learn about causes, symptoms & treatment.

Juvenile Inflammatory Myopathy

A group of diseases causing muscle weakness, joint pain, fatigue, clumsiness, a rash on the face and around joints, irritability, weight loss and ulcers in the mouth.

Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma (JNA)

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) is an aggressive but rare and benign (non-cancerous) tumor of the nasopharynx, the space behind the nose that connects it to the mouth. Learn more.

Juvenile Osteochondritis Dissecans

A disorder occurring in young people with growth plates not closed yet; a loosening of a piece of bone and the cartilage that covers it; can lead to early arthritis.

Juvenile Osteoporosis

In children, the term osteoporosis is used when the density of the bones is significantly below normal (noted on the DXA scan) and they have a fracture history. Learn more.

Juvenile Rheumatoid-Arthritis-Related Jaw Disorders

Also called juvenile idiopathic arthritis, may affect many joints in the body, may cause abnormalities in the growth of joint surfaces, leading to growth issues and pain.

Kasabach-Merritt Phenomenon (KMP)

A condition that causes problems with blood clotting, caused by a blood vessel tumor, either a tufted angioma or kaposiform hemangioendothelioma.

Kawasaki Disease

Kawasaki disease is A serious pediatric illness that causes inflammation of the blood vessels and can damage the coronary arteries of the heart. Learn more.

Kawasaki Disease Center

The Center for Kawasaki Disease at Lurie Children's is internationally known as one of the most active centers for clinical, educational and research programs.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a rare, progressive disorder of the cornea (the clear, front part of the eye) that causes thinning, steepening, high astigmatism, and can lead to scarring and permanent vision loss. Learn more.

Ketogenic Diet Program

Learn how a keto diet can help control childhood epilepsy and seizures, and why the Lurie children's Ketogenic Diet Program one of the best programs of its kind.

Kidney Genetics Program

The clinic for the Kidney Genetics (Nephrogenetics) Program includes a team of specialists at Lurie Children’s who have different areas of expertise. The Program was developed to provide the best possible comprehensive care for patients with genetic kidney diseases and their families. What Can Genetics Tell Us About Kidney Disease? We know there...

Kidney Stones

A hard deposit of mineral and acid crystals that sometimes forms inside a kidney, can cause extreme pain while it passes.

Kidney Transplant Program

Lurie Children's Pediatric Kidney Transplant Program has outcomes among the best programs in the country. Learn more today about how we can help.

Kidney Transplants

Explore Lurie Children’s kidney transplant program, offering comprehensive care and support for pediatric patients in need of kidney transplants.

Klinefelter Syndrome

Learn about Klinefelter syndrome, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options at Lurie Children's. Access expert care and resources to support individuals and families affected by this genetic condition for better health outcomes.

Klinefelter Syndrome Program

The Klinefelter Syndrome Program (also referred to as 47,XXY) offers interdisciplinary care spanning from prenatal consultation to young adulthood. Learn more.

Knee Injury Prevention Program (KIPP®)

Lurie Children's Institute for Sports Medicine​ offers the Knee Injury Prevention Program, a neuromuscular training program designed to reduce the risk of ACL injuries among female adolescent athletes.

Knock Knees (Genu Valgum)

When some children stand, run or walk, their knees seem very close together (or even touch each other) and their ankles are further apart.

Kyphoscoliotic Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (kEDS)

Kyphoscoliotic Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (kEDS) is one of the different subtypes of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). Learn more.

Labial Adhesions

Also known as “synechia vulvae” or “labial agglutination,” a closure of the opening to the vagina, may occur in the first few months of life or, even more rarely, at a later time.

Lactose Intolerance

A condition in which a lack of an enzyme called lactase causes the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk products.

Laryngeal Cleft

A laryngeal cleft is a gap in the tissues at the back of the voice box, which sometimes extends further down into the tissues that separate the windpipe and esophagus.

Laryngeal Web

Children can be born with a laryngeal web, or it can be acquired as a scar between the vocal cords where they meet.

Laryngomalacia

Laryngomalacia is a malformation of the top of the voice box at birth, which causes floppiness of the upper airway above the vocal cords.

Lead Evaluation

Lurie Children’s knows that lead poisoning is a common environmental disease of young children and has developed a program to detect and care for children with lead exposure.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Syndrome

A condition involving the bones of the hip joint, when there is not enough blood delivered to the femoral head, the round ball at the top of the thighbone (femur).

Leukemia

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and develops in the bone marrow, affecting white blood cell production and immunity. Learn more about childhood leukemia.

Leukodystrophy

A group of disorders that damage the covering of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal column, so they can no longer transmit signals between the brain and the body.

Leukodystrophy Care Program

Lurie Children's Leukodystrophy Care Program is a multidisciplinary program providing the best possible comprehensive care to patients with leukodystrophies and their families at every stage of their disease.

Limb Deformities

Review treatment options for limb deformities in children, provided by the experts at Lurie Children's.

Lip Tie

Lip tie occurs when a piece of tissue (a frenulum) behind the upper lip is short and tight. Learn more.

Little League Elbow (Medial Epicondylar Apophysitis)

Irritation and inflammation of the growth plate on the inner side of the elbow, occurring in young baseball players and in other sports where players throw often.

Little League Shoulder (Proximal Humeral Epiphysitis)

Irritation and inflammation of the growth plate in the upper arm bone, occurring most often in pitchers and other athletes who do repetitive overhead movements with their arms.

Liver Center

Lurie Children’s Pediatric Liver Center unites specialists to treat a wide range of liver conditions through expert, collaborative care.

Liver Enlargement

Liver enlargement, also known as enlarged liver or hepatomegaly, is a larger than normal swelling of the liver, and can be caused by many conditions. Learn more.

Liver Failure

Also called hepatic insufficiency, when the liver can no longer produce bile, filter blood, store vitamins, iron, glucose, break down hemoglobin, insulin, and old red blood cells.

Liver Transplantation Program

Lurie Children’s has one of the largest and most experienced pediatric liver transplant surgery teams in the country. Learn more about our holistic treatment.

Liver Transplants

A pediatric liver transplant is recommended when a child with serious liver disease will not be able to live without having part or all of the liver replaced.

Loeys-Dietz Syndrome: Symptoms & Causes

Loeys-Dietz syndrome is a rare genetic disorder of the connective tissue similar to Marfan Syndrome. Learn more about causes, signs, types, and management.

Low Bone Density

Low bone density or decreased bone density means that your bones are not as dense or strong as they should be. Learn more.

Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction (LUTO)

Learn about Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction (LUTO), diagnosis, treatment options, and more here at Lurie Children's.

Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)

Systemic lupus erythematosus, or simply lupus, is an autoimmune disease characterized by episodes of inflammation that can affect multiple systems of the body.

Lurie Children's Little Ones

Lurie Children's Little Ones is a comprehensive program for children ages birth to four years old in the Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. Learn more.

Lymphadenopathy

Lymphadenopathy is the swelling of the lymph nodes, which are the bean-shaped organs found in the underarm, groin, neck, chest and abdomen. Learn more about causes.

Lymphatic Drainage Disorders Program

Our Lymphatic Drainage Disorders Program offers an outstanding multidisciplinary care team and state-of-the-art facilities to provide the best care for children with lymphatic disorders. Learn more.

Lymphatic Malformations

Lymphatic malformations (LMs) are masses that result from an abnormal formation of small tube-like vessels that collect and transfer fluid in the body's tissue and are part of the immune system. Learn more.

Macrocephaly-Capillary Malformation Syndrome

A persistent nevus simplex (port wine stain) as well as a large head. Children also have developmental delays and other malformations, such as extra or enlarged fingers or toes.

Maffucci Syndrome

Vascular malformations in the skin and internal organs and tumors occurring in the bone, causing blue, soft skin lesions on one side of the body, often on the hands and feet.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI is an imaging technique that uses a large magnet, radio frequencies and a computer to produce two- or three-dimensional images of the body.

Malformed Teeth

May result from several conditions including congenital syphilis, cerebral palsy, ectodermal dysplasia, incontinentia pigmenti achromians, cleidocranial dysostosis, for example.

Mallet Finger

An injury involving the last joint of the finger caused either by injury to the extensor tendon or to the bone where it inserts. The extensor tendon straightens the last joint.

Marfan Syndrome

Marfan syndrome is a condition that affects the connective tissues of the entire body, including joints, eyes, heart, blood vessels, lungs, bones & spinal cord.

Meconium Aspiration Syndrome

Meconium aspiration syndrome is a condition that occurs when a newborn infant breathes in a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid. Learn about treatment here.

Medial Collateral Ligament Injuries

Injury to one of the four major ligaments of the knee, connecting the thigh bone to the shinbone, typically by a blow to the outside of the knee or an inward twisting of the knee.

Medial Epicondyle Avulsion Fracture

An elbow injury that occurs most often in young baseball players. These fractures of the bony protrusion inside the elbow, are the most common elbow injury during adolescence.

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints)

A condition that causes pain over the shin bone, the most common cause of “shin splints,” the general term used to describe sports-related pain over that bone.

Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome

Also called celiac axis syndrome and Dunbar syndrome, a rare condition resulting in severe abdominal pain after eating, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss.

Medical Imaging

The Medical Imaging team provides imaging services to children throughout the hospital, using minimally invasive and low-dose radiation techniques.

Megameatus

In megameatus, the “meatus” or the external opening of the urethra may be located but appears as a large cleft in the underside of the tip of the penis and an overly large urethral opening.

Meningitis

An inflammation of the covering (the “meninges”) of the brain and spinal cord, can be caused by bacteria or a virus, the more common form being viral.

Meniscus Injuries

Athletes most commonly tear the meniscus during a sudden twisting, pivoting, cutting or decelerating motion of the knee with the foot planted on the ground. Learn more.

Mental Health Support for Transgender & Gender Questioning Youth

Our team has specialized training in psychosocial and mental health issues related to gender development, and they can provide support in a number of ways.

Mesenteric Cysts & Tumors

Rare conditions occurring in the folds of tissue that attach the organs of the body to the inside of the abdominal wall, usually treated by surgical removal.

Metabolic Disorders

When several organs and glands (the liver, pancreas, and endocrine glands, for example) do not function correctly, causing an imbalance of enzymes or hormones in the cells.

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis

A more severe condition of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease that adds inflammation and scarring to a fatty liver and can lead to liver cirrhosis.

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (Fatty Liver Disease) Program

Lurie Children's Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis Program's team of liver specialists, a registered dietitian, nurses and a social worker conducts laboratory and clinical research projects to help promote patient care and better educate families.

Metatarsal Stress Fractures

Fractures occurring in the second, third and fourth metatarsal bones of the foot, usually caused by repetitive, high-impact, weight-bearing activities.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphyloccus Aureus (MRSA)

A type of bacteria resistant to certain antibiotics, including methicillin and other more common antibiotics such as oxacillin, penicillin and amoxicillin.

Microtia & Aural Atresia

A small, abnormally shaped ear, ranging from a minimally deformed small ear to a complete absence of the ear, and the absence of the ear canal; commonly found together.

Microtia and Aural Atresia Program

Lurie Children's Microtia Program treats infants and children with the ear deformities, hearing loss, and speech and language difficulties that come with microtia and aural atresia.

Migraines

A common childhood complaint with symptoms of moderate to severe intensity, usually described as “throbbing,” may include vision changes, tiredness and mood changes.

Minimally Invasive Injections for Painful Conditions of the Spine

At Lurie Children's, our Neurointerventional Radiology team performs different procedures to treat painful conditions of the spine caused by either disease or injury. Learn more.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Instead of traditional incisions, requiring weeks for healing, minimally invasive procedures use instruments to see inside the body and perform procedures with small incisions that heal more rapidly.

Minimally Invasive Urology Surgery

Urologic surgeons at Lurie Children’s have performed over 350 robot-assisted minimally invasive surgeries, even for babies as young as six months.

Mitral Valve Prolapse

Caused when the left ventricle of the heart contracts, part of the valve falls back into the left atrium, allowing blood to leak back through the valve into the atrium.

Mixed Vascular Malformations

Mixed vascular malformations are quite common in children. Learn more about pediatric mixed vascular malformations and available treatment options here.

Molluscum Contagiosum

Smooth, pearly, flesh-colored skin growths, beginning as small bumps, found on the face and body but may grow in the mouth or on the eyelid.

Mood & Anxiety Disorders

Many children can have behaviors resulting from feelings that are very difficult for them to cope with. Learn more.

Mood & Anxiety Program

Lurie Children's Mood and Anxiety Program provides evidence-based assessment and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders in children and adolescents.

Mood Disorders (Affective Disorders)

Mood disorders (affective disorders) are a category of mental health problems that include depressive disorders. Learn more about mood disorders in children.

Mood, Anxiety, ADHD Collaborative Care (MAACC) Program

The goal of the Mood, Anxiety, ADHD Collaborative Care (MAACC) program is to work with you and your pediatrician, using a team-based approach known as collaborative care, to personalize your child’s treatment and monitor your child’s progress.

Morton Neuroma (Intermetatarsal Neuropathy/Perineural Fibroma)

A swelling and growth of tissue surrounding the nerves between the bones of the foot, resulting from consistent irritation, injury or occurring for unknown reasons.

Mosaic RASopathies

RASopathies are a group of genetic conditions so named because they are caused by problems in the RAS pathway. Learn more.

Motor Milestones Therapy

Lurie Children's treats children who are behind in developing their gross and fine motor skills, whether from known conditions such as cerebral palsy, or with those otherwise healthy who struggle to achieve common milestones.

Movement Dysfunction

Affecting the ability to walk, maintain balance, and participate in athletics; chronic pain and decreased range of motion are usually also present.

Moyamoya Disease

Moyamoya disease is a rare, progressive cerebrovascular disorder where typically the internal carotid artery becomes smaller and blocked over time. Learn more.

Mucopolysaccharidoses

Disorders caused by the deficiency of an enzyme that breaks down mucopolysaccharides, which then accumulate in the tissues of the body, causing various symptoms.

Mucopolysaccharidoses & Mucolipidoses Treatment Program​

Lurie Children's Mucopolysaccharidoses and Mucolipidoses Treatment Program provides comprehensive care and assists patients and families in the management of these complex conditions.

Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney (MCDK)

A condition that results from the malformation of the kidney during fetal development, consisting of irregular cysts of varying sizes that resemble a bunch of grapes.

Multidisciplinary Valves Program

Lurie Children’s Multidisciplinary Valves Program (MVP) Clinic is the most experienced comprehensive pediatric clinic in the region treating this rare urological condition in infants and children. Learn more.

Multiple Fractures

If a child has had two or more long bone fractures under the age of 10 years or three long bone fractures under the age of 19 years, this would be considered a significant history of multiple fractures. Learn more.

Muscle Contusion

An injury to the soft tissue (muscle fibers, connective tissue and/or blood vessels and nerves) of the upper leg, with the most commonly involved muscle being the quadriceps.

Muscular Dystrophies

Thirty or more genetic diseases characterized by progressive weakness and degeneration of the skeletal muscles that control movement.

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Clinic

Lurie Children’s works with the Muscular Dystrophy Association in clinical partnership to improve the care of children living with neuromuscular diseases.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome

A bone marrow disorder sometimes seen in younger patients. It is characterized by a failure of the bone marrow to produce mature healthy blood cells.

Myocarditis/Pericarditis

Inflammation of the heart muscle or of the lining outside the heart, the immune system causing inflammation to get rid of infection or in response to some other trigger.

Myoclonus

The sudden involuntary contraction or relaxation of a muscle or group of muscles.

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Myopia (nearsightedness) is a common eye problem with increasing prevalence world-wide. Learn more.

Narcolepsy

A sleep condition affecting 1 in 2,000 people, characterized by inappropriate sleep patterns and excessive – at times irresistible – daytime sleepiness.

Nasal Fracture (Broken Nose)

Possible signs of nasal fracture (broken nose) include bruising of the nose and under the eyes, nosebleeds after injury, swelling of the nose or a crooked appearance of the nose. Learn more.

Natal Teeth

Understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment of natal teeth in infants with insights from Lurie Children’s specialists.

Navicular Stress Fracture

An overuse injury of one of the bones in the midfoot, resulting from too much repetitive stress placed on a bone, causing swelling, weakening and cracking.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis

A serious intestinal illness in babies, involving damage to intestinal tissues, which can lead to a hole in the intestines, allowing bacteria in the intestine to leak into the abdomen.

Neonatal Cardiac Surgery

Neonatal cardiac surgery is the surgical treatment of congenital heart defects (CHD) in newborn babies. Learn more about our experts in the Chicago area.

Neonatal Hemochromatosis

A serious and usually fatal condition in which fetuses and infants under one month accumulate iron in the liver and other tissues, typically resulting in liver failure.

Neonatology

The Division of Neonatology at Lurie Children's has a top-ranked Level IV neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for critically ill newborns. Learn more.

Nephrology (Kidney Diseases)

The Division of Pediatric Nephrology at Lurie Children's provides top-ranked care for pediatric kidney diseases and kidney failure. Learn more here.

Nephrosis

A group of symptoms affecting both kidneys, usually with no obvious cause, indicated by high albumin in the urine, high blood cholesterol and fluid retention throughout the body.

Neuro Angiogram

Learn how a neuro angiogram helps diagnose brain and spine conditions using advanced imaging. Find expert care at Lurie Children’s.

Neuro Embolization

Learn how neuro embolization treats brain and spine conditions with minimally invasive techniques. Discover expert care at Lurie Children’s.

Neuroblastoma

A cancerous tumor beginning in nerve tissue of infants and very young children, rare in children older than 10-years-old, but occasionally occurring in adults.

Neurocritical Care Program

Lurie Children's Neurocritical Care Program includes physicians, nurses and scientists from Neurology, Critical Care, Neurosurgery, Medical Psychology, Neuroradiology, and Rehabilitation, treating infants and children with brain injuries.

Neurofibromatosis

An inherited condition characterized by benign tumors in the cells surrounding nerves, occurring in two types: Type 1 found in younger children, and Type 2 in the older child.

Neurofibromatosis Program

Lurie Children's Neurofibromatosis Program brings together a team of ophthalmologists, orthopaedic surgeons, neurosurgeons and oncologists, seeing more than 300 patients with neurofibromatosis a year.

Neurogenic Bladder

A complex condition in which the nerves and muscles of the bladder can’t work together, preventing the bladder and sphincter muscles from functioning properly.

Neuroimaging

State-of-the-art neuroimaging includes computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and advanced neuroimaging techniques such functional MRI (fMRI).

Neuroimmunology Clinic

Neurointerventional Radiology

Pediatric Neurointerventional Radiology refers to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for the brain, spine, head, and neck. Learn more at Lurie Children's.

Neurointestinal and Motility Program

The pediatric motility specialists at our Neurointestinal and Motility Program provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and treatment for motility disorders.

Neurologic Disorders & Injuries

Any structural, chemical or electrical disturbances in the central nervous system can result in weakness, paralysis, lack of coordination or sensation, confusion or pain.

Neurology

Lurie Children's pediatric neurology ranks nationally for the advanced treatment of neurological conditions in children. Learn more about our expert care here.

Neuromodulation Clinic (VNS & RNS)

The Neuromodulation Clinic (VNS & RNS) at Lurie Children’s focuses on alternative surgical intervention, including Vagal Nerve Stimulation and Responsive Neurostimulation.

Neuromuscular Program

Lurie Children’s Mazza Foundation Neuromuscular Program provides specialized care to families and children with medically challenging neuromuscular conditions and advances research to find new therapies.

Neuromuscular Rehabilitation & Therapy

Lurie Children's Neuromuscular Rehabilitation Services are part of the multidisciplinary Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Program, currently the only MDA clinic in the Chicago area focusing solely on pediatrics.

Neuropsychiatry Program

Our Neuropsychiatry Program provides psychiatric services to patients with neurologic disorders such as seizures, tumors, brain injury and cerebral palsy.

Neurosurgery

Lurie Children's is nationally ranked in pediatric neurosurgery for the advanced treatment of neurologic conditions in children. Learn more here.

Neurovascular Disease and Stroke Program

The Neurovascular Disease and Stroke Program provides comprehensive treatments and services in all areas of neurovascular care for patients ranging in age from infancy through adulthood.

Neuro​psychology Testing

Neuropsychological testing evaluates a patient’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses. Learn more about pediatric neurospych testing at Lurie Children's.

Neutropenia

Neutropenia in children is a condition in which the body does not have enough neutrophils — a type of white blood cell that helps fight bacterial infections.

Nevi

Plural of nevus, a skin marking present at birth or appearing within a few weeks of birth, occurring anywhere and very common in infants. Most are harmless.

Nevus Simplex

A type of capillary malformation when the small blood vessels are larger than normal, and since capillaries are close to the surface of the skin, the area appears more pink or red.

New Onset Seizure Clinic

The New Onset Epilepsy Clinic at Lurie Children’s addresses the need for prompt appointments for children who have had their first seizure or a new diagnosis of epilepsy.

Newborn Screening for Cystic Fibrosis

Working with the State of Illinois and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Lurie Children’s offers rapid testing, counseling and initiation of care for infants with positive newborn screening tests.

NICU-Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program

The NICU-Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program (NCNP) at Lurie Children's evaluates and cares for children from birth to adulthood. Learn more.

NICU-Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program: Child & Adolescent Clinic

Lurie Children's NICU-Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program: Child & Adolescent Clinic is one of only a few programs nationwide providing care for infants and young children through the Neonatal and Cardiac Intensive Care Follow-Up Clinic and to school-age.

NICU-Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program: Early Childhood Clinic

Lurie Children’s NICU-Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program: Early Childhood Clinic is a developmental follow-up service, supporting your child’s development from infancy through preschool.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system that causes the cells in the lymphatic system to abnormally reproduce, eventually causing tumors to grow.

Noonan Syndrome

Learn about Noonan Syndrome, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options from the experts at Lurie Children’s.

Noonan Syndrome with Multiple Lentigines

Learn about Noonan Syndrome with Multiple Lentigines, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options at Lurie Children’s.

Norovirus

Norovirus is a contagious virus that causes vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps and other symptoms. Learn more.

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine scans u​se tiny amounts of radioactive materials (isotopes), a special camera and a computer to create images from various parts of the body.

Nutrition

The Department of Clinical Nutrition’s dietitians provide a wide range of services for patients of all ages, including assessment, developing care plans, monitoring and education.

Nystagmus

Nystagmus is involuntary eye movements that make the eyes look like they are shaking. Learn more.

Obesity

A Body Mass Index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile for children of the same age and gender, possibly resulting in high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, asthma, etc.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) starts in adolescence or young adulthood and involves both thoughts and behaviors that are hard to control. Learn more.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Intervals of no airflow through the nose and mouth during sleep despite continued attempts to breathe in and out.

Occupational Therapy

Lurie Children's provides specialized pediatric occupational therapy services for children of all ages, from infancy to adolescence.

Oculo-Auriculo-Vertebral Spectrum (Goldenhar Syndrome, Craniofacial Microsomia)

An assortment of congenital malformations that affect various parts of the head and upper body.

Ophthalmology

The pediatric ophthalmologists at Lurie Children's provide world-class treatment for eye disorders, trauma, and vision problems in children.

Oral Immunotherapy Program

Oral immunotherapy (OIT) “retrains” the immune system to be less reactive to allergenic foods by feeding a patient increasing doses of the allergen over time.

Orbital Fractures

An orbital fracture is a condition where one or more bones surrounding the eye are broken. Learn more.

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Program

Lurie Children's Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Program specialists are trained in the evaluation and treatment of swallowing and disorders of the structures of the lips, tongue, jaw, cheeks and palate.

Orthopaedics

Orthopedic Surgery at Lurie Children’s provides a range of services for children with bone, joint, muscle, ligament, tendon and nerve (musculoskeletal) disorders.

Orthotics & Prosthetics

The pediatric orthotics team at Lurie Children's combines science and innovative techniques to create customized prosthetics and leg braces for children.

Os Trigonum Syndrome

When a small bone in the back of the ankle and its tendons are injured, inflamed and painful by repeated pointing of the toes, as in soccer, basketball and dance.

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Irritation and inflammation of the growth plate at the top of the shin bone, where the patella tendon inserts, commonly occurring in children between 9 and 15.

Osteogenesis Imperfecta

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is sometimes called brittle bone disease. It is a genetic disorder that affects the quality (and sometimes the quantity) of the bone. Learn more.

Osteoid Osteoma

An osteoid osteoma is a common, benign (non-cancerous) tumor that usually develops in the femur and tibia, but can also occur on the spine. Learn more.

Osteomyelitis

An infection in the bone, usually in the long bones but can affect any bone in the body, most commonly in premature infants and babies born with complications.

Osteosarcoma in Children

Osteosarcoma is one of the most common types of pediatric bone cancer usually occurring in the arms, legs and pelvis. Learn more about diagnosis and treatment.

Otitis Media (Ear Infection)

Inflammation of the middle ear, often occurring with a viral upper respiratory tract illness, and is one of the most common diagnoses for U.S. children.

Otorrhea (Ear Drainage)

Otorrhea, or drainage from the ear, can occur after a ruptured ear drum from an acute ear infection, if the ear(s) become infected after tympanostomy tube (ear tube) placement, and from external ear infections.

Outpatient Psychiatric Services

Lurie Children's Outpatient Psychiatric Services Program provides more than 18,000 clinical visits yearly, for anxiety disorders, psychoses, behavior problems, school problems, affective disorders, PTSD, developmental delay and adjustment problems.

Ovarian Cryopreservation Procedure

Ovarian cryopreservation for fertility is a procedure needed due to childhood cancer treatment. Learn more about ovarian tissue freezing here.

Ovotesticular Difference of Sexual Development

The rarest of sex development abnormalities, in which both female ovaries and male testicles are present in the child at birth.

Pain Management

Learn about our different methods of making your child comfortable. Our anesthesiologists strive to make sure your child feels the least amount of pain possible during and after procedures.

Palliative Care

Lurie Children's Pediatric Palliative Care team focuses on improving the quality of life for children and their families.

Palpitations

Heart palpitations in children, the uncomfortable awareness of heartbeats, are a common complaint. Learn more about palpitation causes, diagnosis and treatment.

Panner Disease

A condition affecting the growth plate at the end of the upper arm bone, in which it loses its blood supply and the nearby bone softens and collapses.

Parasomnia

Sleep disorders among children are common. Issues that disrupt sleep once it has started, such as sleepwalking and night terrors, are known as “parasomnias.”

Parathyroid Disorders

The parathyroid glands control the levels of calcium and phosphorus stored in the bones and circulated in the blood. Disorders occur either when the glands become either overactive or underactive. Learn more.

Partial Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (PAIS)

A genetic defect causing the undifferentiated genitals of the developing baby to fail to respond correctly to male sex hormones, and not develop fully male characteristics.

Partial Hospitalization Program

Lurie Children's Partial Hospitalization Program is an intensive, five-day treatment program serving children ages 10-14 requiring more intense treatment for psychiatric problems but can be safely maintained at home.

Patella Tendonitis

When the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone and the tissues that surround it become irritated and painful from overuse, especially from jumping.

Patellar Dislocation (Kneecap Dislocation)

When the kneecap pops out of its usual place in the groove at the end of the thigh bone, often with sudden onset of pain and swelling.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee)

A common knee problem involving pain under and around the kneecap, usually in the soft-tissue supporting structures (patellar ligaments, bursae, and tendons).

Patent Ductus Arteriosus

A tube-like connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery, which usually closes shortly after birth, but sometimes doesn't close, commonly in premature infants.

Pathology & Laboratory Medicine

Lurie Children's Pathology and Laboratory department offer expertise and state-of-the-art technology to deliver efficient, timely and high-quality services.

Pavlik Harness

A brace used to treat long-term developmental problems of the hip, including a shallow hip socket or a dislocated hip.

PCOS Clinic

Our Multidisciplinary PCOS Program is the only multidisciplinary clinic in Chicago dedicated to teens & young adults. Learn how our specialists can help.

Pectus Carinatum

Pectus Carinatum, or pigeon chest, causes the sternum, or breastbone, to protrude out in front of the rest of the chest. Get information on treatment here.

Pectus Excavatum

Pectus exacavatum, known as sunken chest or funnel chest, occurs in 1 in 400 births. Get information on chest wall deformity treatment here.

Pediatric Concussion Evaluation

Pediatric concussion evaluations are conducted by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers with expertise in concussion care. Learn what to expect here.

Pediatric Long QT Syndrome

Long QT syndromes, a condition affecting heart rhythm that can be fatal if not quickly controlled. Learn more about pediatric long QT syndrome.

Pediatric Neuromuscular Disorders

Pediatric neuromuscular disorders are conditions that affect the control of voluntary muscles. They can be temporary or chronic and can last into adulthood.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Program

Lurie Children's offers physical therapy (PT) for our patients with pelvic floor dysfunction. Learn more.

Penile Skin Bridge - Penile Adhesions

Can result from a procedure such as circumcision if the skin around the head of the penis is not retracted during healing, but can also occur in uncircumcised young boys.

Perinatal Palliative Care

The Perinatal Palliative Care Program offers support for families who have received a fetal diagnosis that is potentially life-threatening or life-limiting.

Periodic Fevers

The body's reaction to infection, common in children, most of the time going away in 2–3 days. Fevers in newborns and infants should, however, be evaluated by a physician.

Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension

Also called persistent pulmonary hypertension in the newborn or persistent fetal circulation syndrome, a serious breathing condition for newborns. Its cause is unknown.

PET/CT Scan

A imaging test to detect cancer and neurological diseases, using special pictures taken after a tiny amount of a radioactive liquid is injected into a vein.

PHACE(S) Syndrome

An acronym for the syndrome: Posterior fossa malformations, Hemangioma, Arterial anomalies, Cardiac anomalies, Eye abnormalities, and Sternal clefting and supraumbilical raphe.

Pharmacogenomics Program

What is Pharmacogenomics? Genetic differences are called variants. Many variants have little to no effect on how the body works, but some are related to health problems. Further, some variants are related to how our bodies process or respond to medicines. Pharmacogenomics (PGx, for short) is the field of medicine that studies this - how genes and...

Pharyngitis & Tonsillitis

Learn more about sore throats (pharyngitis and tonsillitis), including causes, symptoms and treatments. Find expert care and discover how Lurie Children’s can help.

Phenylketonuria (PKU)

An enzyme deficiency which prevents the metabolizing of one of the normal amino acids found in meat, bread, eggs, dairy, nuts and some fruits and vegetables.

PHOX2B Gene Test

PHOX2B gene testing is performed by the Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory at Lurie Children's to detect mutations associated with Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome-like symptoms.

Physical Therapy

Our pediatric physical therapy team treats children with health issues associated with motor development and movement dysfunction due to disease or injury.

Physical Therapy for Children in the NICU/CCU

Our physical therapists treat babies in the NICU and CCU who have had surgery or are diagnosed with a range of conditions.

Physical Therapy for Torticollis

For children with torticollis, Lurie Children's physical therapists assess the needs of each child and provide treatment, home exercise and positioning suggestions.

Pigmented Lesion Center

The Pediatric Pigmented Lesion Clinic at Lurie Children’s provides the best possible care to children with complex pigmented lesions. Learn more.

Pilonidal Cyst

An abnormal pocket in the skin of the lower back, usually near the tailbone at the top of the cleft of the buttocks.

Pityriasis Rosea

A common disorder in children and young adults, characterized by scaly, pink, and inflamed skin.

Plantar Fasciitis

Inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia, a band of tough, fibrous tissue that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot, providing support for the arch of the foot.

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

The Division of Plastic Surgery at Lurie Children's compassionately treats congenital defects in all children, from infancy to adolescence.

Pneumonia

An inflammation of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses or chemical irritants.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur when the ovaries or adrenal glands produce too much male hormone. Learn more about PCOS in teens.

Pompe Disease

A rare genetic disease of the heart and skeletal muscles caused by a lack alpha-glucosidase which results in the build-up of glycogen, disabling heart and skeletal muscles.

Ponseti Method

The Ponseti Method includes three phases of treatment for clubfoot: casting, Achilles tendon release and bracing.

Popliteal (Baker's) Cyst

Learn about Baker's cysts, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options at Lurie Children's. Find expert care and resources for managing this common condition in children.

Portal Hypertension

Pediatric portal hypertension is high blood pressure in the portal vein that carries blood to the liver. Learn about causes, symptoms & treatment options here.

Portal Vein Thrombosis

Portal vein thrombosis is a rare disorder in which a clot forms blocking the main portal vein going into the liver. Learn more.

Posterior Urethral Valves

Abnormal valves that prevent the normal release of urine, causing the kidneys and collecting systems to become overfilled and expanded.

Posthemorrhagic Hydrocephalus (PHH)

A build-up of fluid due to damage to blood vessels within the brain during the birth process and afterward.

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

A chronic condition most often seen after the onset of puberty, usually indicated by the elevation of heart rate upon standing, causing dizziness and palpitations.

POTS Program

The POTS Program at Lurie Children’s provides comprehensive care to patients with cardiovascular symptoms of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Learn more.

Precocious (Early) Puberty

When the body’s changes toward sexual maturity start much sooner than usual: before girls are eight years old and before boys are nine years old.

Preventive Cardiology Program

The Preventive Cardiology Program is committed to improving the health of children at risk for heart disease. We care for children who have cardiac risk factors for heart and vascular disease which may include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and a family history of heart attacks and strokes.

Primary Care Pediatrics

When your child comes down with a common illness or requires a routine check-up, you want to make sure they’re in expert hands. Lurie Children’s primary care services offer the right care in the right place at the right time.

Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) Center of Excellence

Lurie Children’s is one of a handful of institutions in the country – and the first in Illinois – to offer a Pediatric Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) Center of Excellence accredited by the PCD Foundation.

Program in Inflammation, Immunity, and the Microbiome

The Program in Inflammation, Immunity, and the Microbiome (PrIIMe) is dedicated to meeting the needs of pediatric patients with complex disorders of the immune system that affect multiple body systems. Learn more.

Proteus Syndrome

A rare, progressive overgrowth syndrome, involving different tissues, such as the nervous system, the skin and tissue below the skin, connective tissue and organs.

Proton Therapy

Proton Therapy is offered through the Northwestern Medicine Chicago Proton Center.

Pseudotumor Cerebri (Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension)

A condition caused by pressure around the brain that mimics a tumor when there is no tumor, thought to be caused by a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.

Psychiatry

Lurie Children's specializes in care for complex pediatric behavioral and mental health disorders by pediatric psychiatrists and psychologists.

Psychogenic Non-neurological Syndromes

Seizures, fainting, and other movement disorders which may have both organic and psychological causes.

Psychoses

Conditions that cause a loss of connection with reality, with symptoms including delusions, hallucinations, incoherent speech or nonsensical behavior.

PTEN Hamartoma Tumor Syndrome

A group of rare syndromes that result from mutations in the PTEN gene, a gene that normally stops cells from growing and dividing uncontrolled (“suppressor genes”).

Pulmonary Atresia

A heart malformation in which the valve from the right side of the heart that would normally allow the movement of blood from the heart to the lungs does not form.

Pulmonary Habilitation Program

Many of Lurie Children's Pulmonary Habilitation Program patients come from neonatal or pediatric intensive care units throughout the Midwest, typically needing ventilators to help them breathe.

Pulmonary Hypertension

High blood pressure in the lungs, a disease of the very small blood vessels in the lungs, affecting not only the lungs but the heart as well.

Pulmonary Hypertension Service

Lurie Children’s Pulmonary Hypertension Service cares for children of all ages with pulmonary hypertension, a disease of the very small blood vessels within the lungs, with expertise from Pulmonary Medicine, the Heart Center and Neonatology.

Pulmonary Medicine

Our pediatric pulmonology department ranks nationally for pediatric pulmonary care. Learn more about our approach to pediatric pulmonary medicine & lung care.

Pulmonary Stenosis

A pulmonary valve that doesn't open properly, causing the right ventricle of the heart to pump harder, restricting the amount of blood reaching the lungs for oxygenation.

Pulmonary Valve Replacement

When replacement of the pulmonary valve is recommended, it can be achieved two ways: surgery and catheterization. Lurie Children’s has experts in both areas so all patients can be managed successfully.

Pulmonary Vein Stenosis

Pulmonary vein stenosis is a rare but serious problem in which the veins that connect the lungs to the heart become narrowed. Learn more.

Pulmonary Vein Stenosis Program

Lurie Children's Pulmonary Vein Stenosis Program is dedicated to working with families to provide the best, individualized treatment to all children with pulmonary vein stenosis. Learn more.

Pulsed Dye Laser

Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) is used to treat various blood vessel conditions of the skin.

Rapid-onset Obesity with Hypothalamic Dysfunction, Hypoventilation & Autonomic Dysregulation (ROHHAD)

A large weight gain in a short amount of time, accompanied by the dysfunction of the hypothalamus; a very rare disorder.

RASopathy Program

RASopathies impact numerous body systems, including the cardiovascular, endocrine and nervous systems. The RASopathy Program team at Lurie Children’s helps children and families coordinate appointments with different specialists, both within and outside of Lurie Children’s.

Receptive & Expressive Language Difficulties

Indicated by problems understanding what people say, following spoken directions, organizing thoughts, putting words into sentences, or finding the right words.

Reconstructive Microsurgery Program

Lurie Children’s Reconstructive Microsurgery Program treats deformities resulting from trauma, tumors, burns or congenital conditions.

Reconstructive Urology

Lurie Children’s nationally ranked Pediatric Reconstructive Urology Program treats congenital abnormalities of the kidney, bladder and genitalia.

Recurrent Pneumothorax

Occurring when air gets between the lung and the inside of the chest wall, causing the lung itself to collapse, tending to occur in young adults, especially those tall and thin.

Refractive Errors

Conditions which affect vision and may require corrective lenses for correction or improvement, including astigmatism, hyperopia and myopia.

Rehabilitative Services

Lurie Children's specializes in pediatric rehabilitation for children with speech, hearing and movement conditions.

Repetitive Shoulder Strain Injuries

An injury caused by a task that is done repeatedly, such as prolonged manual wheelchair use, causing pain and injury of the upper extremities, especially the shoulders.

Respiratory Failure

A condition in which the lungs are unable to absorb enough oxygen and expel enough carbon dioxide to maintain the health of the rest of the body’s organs.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), whose symptoms are similar to those of many other common illnesses, infects most children before the age of two. Learn more.

Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is a rare eye cancer found in children which tends to run in families. Learn about retinoblastoma symptoms and treatment from Lurie Children's.

Retinopathy of Prematurity

A disorder of the blood vessels of the light-sensitive part of the eye, most common in premature babies.

Retinopathy of Prematurity Program

Lurie Children’s provides world-class treatment and care for a full range of pediatric eye disorders, including Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP). In addition to treating and managing care for babies with ROP, the division is committed to advancing care through research. Learn more.

Retractile Testes

A testicle that moves in and out of the scrotum, instead of resting in the scrotum at all times.

Rhabdomyosarcoma

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a cancerous tumor in the soft tissues of the body. Learn more.

Rheumatology

Lurie Children's Division of Rheumatology provides state-of-the-art diagnoses and care for children who have been diagnosed with rheumatic conditions.

Rib Lesions

Rare structural changes in the ribs arising from several causes including congenital bone dysplasia, an acquired metabolic disease, trauma, infection, or tumors.

Rickets

Also called osteomalacia, rachitis, a condition in which bones become soft or deformed due to lack of calcium and phosphorus, caused by a deficiency of vitamin D.

Ringworm

A common childhood fungal infection causing scaly and ring-shaped lesions on the skin with a central clearing and raised edges.

Robotic Surgery Program

Lurie Children's is one of the only pediatric centers in the world that is home to a comprehensive robotic surgery program using the latest Intuitive Da Vinci surgical system. Learn more.

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

Inflammation or irritation in the tendons of the shoulder joint, rare in children and adolescents.

Safety & Well-Being (SAW) Clinic

The Safety and Well-Being (SAW) Clinic at Lurie Children's provides a wide range of clinical services and support to patients and families in cases where child maltreatment is either suspected or has been identified. Learn more.

Salter-Harris I Fracture of the Distal Fibula

A fracture that goes through the plane of the growth plate of the ankle, without injuring the mature bone, the mildest fracture that can occur to a growth plate.

Sarcoma Program

Lurie Children’s sarcoma team offers comprehensive multidisciplinary care for children and adolescents diagnosed with bone and soft tissue sarcomas.

Scaphoid Fracture

A break in one of the eight small bones of the wrist, most often occurring during a fall when the landing point is on the base of the outstretched hand.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a spine condition causing the back to curve to the side. Learn more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis in children.

Scoliosis Program

Our Scoliosis Program is staffed by pediatric scoliosis specialists that provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care, evaluation and management of scoliosis.

Second Opinions

Consider getting a second opinion from the pediatric specialists at Lurie Children's. A second opinion can offer peace of mind that your child is receiving appropriate medical care.

Seizures in Children

A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance occurring in the brain. There are many different types of seizures. Learn more.

Selective Intrauterine Growth Restriction (sIUGR)

Selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR) is a condition that complicates 10-15% of monochorionic twin pregnancies, where unequal sharing of a single placenta causes inadequate growth in one twin.

Sensory Processing Disorders

Conditions in which the child has problems processing and organizing sensation coming from the body and the environment.

Sever Disease (Calcaneal Apophysitis)

A painful irritation and inflammation of the growth plate at the back of the heel bone, where the Achilles tendon connects.

Severe Aplastic Anemia

When bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells because the stem cells that normally become the three types of blood cells (red, white and platelets) are damaged.

Sexuality Education Program

Lurie Children's Sexuality Education Program combines the expertise of multidisciplinary staff with a youth-centered and engaging curriculum. Learn more.

Shoulder Instability

When the structures of the shoulder don’t hold the bones together tightly, allowing the humerus to partially slide out of its socket or come all the way out of its socket.

Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome (SDS)

A rare, inherited condition that has effects throughout the body, causing poor absorption of fats, bone-marrow dysfunction and skeletal malformations.

Sickle Cell Disease

An inherited blood disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues.

Sickle Cell Disease Program

Lurie Children's Sickle Cell Disease Program is a nationally recognized center of excellence providing comprehensive care to manage the disease and prevent its complications.

Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome

Irritation and inflammation of the growth plate at the bottom of the kneecap, where the patella tendon inserts.

Single Ventricle

Single ventricle defect is an umbrella term for several different types of congenital heart diseases in which the heart has only one functional pumping chamber.

Single Ventricle Center of Excellence

Lurie Children’s Single Ventricle Center of Excellence offers comprehensive treatment for infants, children and adults born with a single functional ventricle pumping blood to the entire body.

Sinusitis

An infection of the sinuses near the nose, usually occurring after a cold or after an allergic inflammation.

Skeletal Dysplasia

Also known as skeletal dysplasia, achondroplasia, or dwarfism, a group of about 400 congenital disorders characterized by abnormal growth of cartilage and bones.

Skier's or Gamekeeper's Thumb

An injury to the ulnar collateral ligament, which links the metacarpal bone at the base of the thumb with the middle thumb bone.

Skin Infection

Very common, caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites.

Skull Base Program

The Skull Base Program at Lurie Children's uses a minimally invasive surgery technique that uses an endoscope introduced through the nose to provide access to the midline cranial base.

Sleep Medicine

Lurie Children's sleep medicine specialists provide sleep studies and research for children with sleep disorders.

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

A hip condition that occurs in adolescents, when the ball at the top of the thighbone slips backward through the growth plate in the hip.

Slow-Flow Malformations

Slow-flow malformations are abnormally formed veins or lymphatic channels that can happen anywhere in the body (excluding the brain). Learn more.

Solid Tumor Program

The Solid Tumor Program at Lurie Children’s is a multidisciplinary program dedicated to providing world-class care to children, adolescents and young adults with cancer.

Sound Experience

Lurie Children's Sound Experience is a social experience for families of children with hearing loss. Learn more.

Spanish Clinic for Epilepsy Patients

Lurie Children’s Epilepsy Center offers a dedicated epilepsy clinic for families whose preferred language is Spanish. Learn More.

Spasticity

Spasticity is a condition caused by damage to the nerve pathways that control muscle movement, causing muscles to become overly excited and not allowing them to relax.

Speaking Valve Evaluations

A tracheostomy tube can impact a child’s ability to speak. Lurie Children's has speech-language pathologists to help determine if a speaking valve may be appropriate for your child.

Speech & Language Evaluations to Measure Communication Skills

Learn what is tested in a speech and language evaluations.

Speech & Language Therapy Program

Lurie Children’s Speech-Language Team specializes in evaluating and treating children from birth to 18 years of age who have difficulty communicating for a variety of reasons.

Speech Impairment

Conditions in which a person has problems forming speech sounds necessary to communicate with others.

Speech-Language Pathology

Lurie Children's highly qualified pediatric speech therapy specialists treat children with communication and feeding-swallowing disorders.

Spermatocele (Epididymal Cyst)

A small, harmless lump that occurs on top of one of the testes inside the scrotum. It occurs in the epididymis, the thin tube that connects the testis with the vas deferens.

Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect where the spine and spinal cord don't develop properly during pregnancy. Learn more today.

Spina Bifida Center

Lurie Children's experts treat children with spina bifida in a family-centered environment.

Spinal CSF Leak

Cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless bodily fluid that acts as a natural shock absorber for the brain and spine and protects them from the jolts and knocks the body endures throughout the day. Learn more.

Spinal Disc Herniation

When some of the gel inside the disc has leaked from its outer covering, leading to irritation and possibly compression of the spinal cord itself.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

A genetic disease affecting the part of the nervous system that controls our ability to move our muscles voluntarily.

Spondylolysis & Spondylolisthesis

Defects and resulting dislocations in the bones that make up the spinal column, typically causing pain and muscle spasms.

Sports Medicine

Lurie Children's provides high-quality care for kids with sports-related conditions, focusing on the needs of growing children. 

Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants

During a pediatric stem cell transplant, a patient's diseased or damaged bone marrow is replaced with healthy blood stem cells. Learn more about the process.

Stem Cell Transplantation Program

Lurie Children's is the nation's largest stem cell transplant center for children with damaged bone marrow. Learn more about pediatric stem cell transplants.

Stinger or Burner Injury

Two terms for the same condition, a stretching or pinching of one or more of the nerves branching off the spinal cord, causing tingling/numbness in arms and fingers.

Stool Retention

Lack of bowel movements, usually caused by both environmental and behavioral factors, resulting in impaction and accidental leakage.

Stool Retention Prevention

Learn about the guidelines that can prevent stool retention over longer periods of time.

Stridor

Stridor is the term for noisy breathing that comes from the upper airway (trachea and voice box) and can be heard without a stethoscope

Stroke

A condition in which the blood supply to any part of the brain is interrupted by a blockage in a blood vessel or if the blood vessel bursts.

Structural Kidney Disease

Either inherited or the result of a functional disease that has not been treated, such as urinary reflux or sepsis-induced kidney injury, usually necessitating dialysis or transplant.

Sturge-Weber Syndrome

About 8% of infants with facial port-wine stains of the upper face and forehead will have SWS, which also may include seizures, headaches, visual changes, and cognitive and developmental delays.

Stye

Also known as a hordeolum, an inflammation of the eyelid margin, seen more often in children than in adults, caused by an infection in the sweat glands in the eyelid.

ST​EP Procedure

The Serial Transverse Enteroplasty Procedure (STEP) is a surgical technique to increase bowel length so it can function more efficiently, decreasing infections and improving nutrition for our patients.

Subglottic Stenosis (SGS)

Subglottic stenosis is a narrowing of the lowest part of the voice box, below the vocal cords.

Substance Use & Prevention Program

The Substance Use and Prevention Program (SUPP) offers pediatric addiction medicine and services through age 25. Learn about the prevention program here.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

The sudden and unexplained death of an infant under one year of age, also referred to as “crib death.”

Suicide

Suicide is when a person causes his or her own death on purpose. Before attempting to take his or her own life, a person may have thoughts of wanting to die. This is called suicidal ideation. Learn more.

Supportive Program for a Range of Urogenital Traits

Our Supportive Program for a Range of Urogenital Traits (SPROUT) unites pediatric urologists, endocrinologists, surgeons, ethicists & psychologists experienced in differences in sexual development.

Supraventricular Tachycardia

SVT is an arrhythmia where the heart beats abnormally fast. It doesn’t always need treatment, but we use medication and cardiac ablation to treat when needed.

Surgery

Lurie Children's specializes in pediatric surgery to treat conditions from before birth to adolescence. Learn why we're a leader in pediatric surgery.

Surgical & Laser Tre​atments

Lurie Children's pediatric dermatologists pioneered the surgical removal of skin lesions and laser treatment for a variety of vascular and pigmented skin lesions and have successfully practiced these approaches for more than a decade.

Surgical Oncology Program

Our Pediatric Surgical Oncology Program offers multidisciplinary care for children diagnosed with solid organ tumors, including sarcomas, kidney tumors, liver tumors, neuroblastoma, gonadal (ovarian and testicular) tumors and thyroid tumors, among other rare conditions.

Survivors Taking Action and Responsibility (STAR) Program

Lurie Children's STAR Program participates in research to improve care and quality of life of survivors and addresses late effects of pediatric cancer and hematopoietic stem cell transplant treatment in children and young adults.

Swimmer's Ear

Also called otitis externa, a commonly occurring infection of the part of the ear canal between the outside of the ear and the eardrum.

Syncope

The sudden loss of consciousness previously called a swoon but now commonly called a fainting spell.

Tachycardia

Tachycardia is a fast heart rate and there are several types that affect babies and children. All are treatable, but some are less serious than others.

TARGET Program

TARGET is a group treatment program within the Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry that helps kids, adolescents and teens get connected to mental health treatment more quickly than if they were to wait for treatment with an individual provider.

Tarsal Coalition

An abnormal connection present between two of the bones of the foot near the ankle, leading to limited motion and pain in the foot.

Telemedicine

Lurie Children's offers pediatric telemedicine for virtual outpatient appointments. Learn more about virtual visits with your physician and care team by video or telephone.

Tennis Elbow

Also called lateral epicondylitis, an overuse injury to the tendons that originate at the outside of the elbow.

Testicular Regression

Also called testicular regression syndrome, anorchia, empty scrotum, and vanishing testes, the gonads are undeveloped and absent.

Testicular Torsion

A medical emergency in which a boy’s testicle twists and is deprived of its blood supply; emergency surgery will usually be needed to save the testicle.

Testicular Tumors - Testicular Cancer

A lump or swelling in either testicle or pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum is not always cancer, but an evaluation should be made by a medical professional.

Tethered Spinal Cord

A congenital abnormality that results in the lower end of the spinal cord becoming fixed or attached in place.

Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot, or TOF, is a combination of four congenital heart defects and requires surgery. Learn more about TOF causes, symptoms & treatment.

Thalassemia

A group of inherited diseases of the blood affecting the ability of the body to make hemoglobin, causing anemia; commonly found around the Mediterranean Sea.

Thalassemia Program

Lurie Children’s Thalassemia Program is the largest thalassemia treatment center in the Midwest and is a nationally designated Thalassemia Care Center recognized by the CDC.

Thigh Contusion

Also called a muscle bruise, an injury to the soft tissue (muscle fibers, connective tissue and/or blood vessels and nerves) of the upper leg.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

A group of symptoms produced by pressure on the nerves and/or blood vessels as they pass through the space between the base of the neck and the armpit.

ThriveGI Integrative Health Program

Lurie Children's offers one of only a few GI-focused pediatric integrative medicine programs in the country. Learn about ThriveGI integrative health here.

Thrombophilia

Thrombophilia, also called hypercoagulability, a condition in which the blood has a higher than normal tendency to clot inside the blood vessels.

Thrombophilia Program

Lurie Children's Thrombophilia Program provides dedicated services in a family-friendly environment for children and adolescents with thrombotic disorders.

Thyroglossal Duct Cysts

A lump or mass that forms in the center of the front of the neck and is the result of malformation in pregnancy.

Thyroid Cancer

Pediatric thyroid cancer is an uncommon cancer in children that causes thyroid gland cells to grow and multiply too much, forming a nodule in the lower neck.

Thyroid Program

Lurie Children’s Pediatric Thyroid Program provides care and treatment for babies through young adults with thyroid problems and diseases. Learn more.

Tibial Torsion (Twisting of the Shinbone)

One cause of intoeing, a condition in which the shin bone is slightly twisted or rotated, causing the foot to turn in.

Tics and Tourette Syndrome

Uncontrolled, repetitive movement of a muscle or group of muscles.

Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia)

Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) in infants and children at Lurie Children’s.

Tonsillectomy & Adenoidectomy

Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy surgery is the most common surgery performed on children in the United States. Learn more about the T&A procedure and recovery.

Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC)

A condition in which the pulmonary veins that bring oxygen-rich blood from the lungs back to the heart are not connected to the left atrium, but instead, drain elsewhere.

Town & Country Pediatrics

Town & Country Pediatrics offers a range of pediatric primary care services for all your child’s health needs. Learn about our convenient scheduling options and quality pediatric care.

Tracheal Reconstruction Program

The tracheal reconstruction team at Lurie Children’s is comprised of surgeons from Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgery and ENT's Aerodigestive Program. Learn more.

Tracheal Rings

Complete tracheal rings refers to a defect in the structure of the cartilages that make up the trachea.

Tracheoesophageal Fistula

A congenital condition in which an abnormal connection exists between the windpipe and the tube that carries food and water from the mouth to the stomach.

Tracheomalacia

Normal tracheal cartilages are round, and because of this shape, they can withstand positive pressure forces without collapsing.

Transient Synovitis Hip

An irritation of the lining of the hip generally occurring in children between three and 12 years old.

Transitioning to Adult Care

Lurie Children's Chronic Care Transition Team helps teenage patients with chronic illnesses prepare for the transition to adult healthcare.

Transplant Surgery

Lurie Children's has a leading transplant center with high rates of graft success and survival in children.

Transposition of the Great Arteries (d-TGA)

Occurring when the positions of the pulmonary artery and the aorta are reversed.

Trauma Center

Lurie Children's is a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center, staffed and equipped to handle the most severely injured children. We see more than 800 trauma victims each year.

Trauma Treatment Service (TTS)

Lurie Children's Trauma Treatment Service (TTS) is a multidisciplinary team that works to provide comprehensive, evidence-based, holistic interventions to patients and families who have experienced violence and trauma. Learn more.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in Children

Lurie Children’s provides expert traumatic brain injury (TBI) care for concussions and other brain injuries. Learn about the causes, symptoms and treatments.

Treatment Groups for Children with Mental Health Conditions

Lurie Children's has developed group settings to help children work through issues together, such as disruptive disorders, healthy decisions, sleep disturbances, and social skills.

Tremor

Tremors (Rhythmic, oscillating muscle movements pivoting on a joint) most commonly involve the hands but can affect the arms, head, vocal cords, trunk, or legs.

Tricuspid Atresia

A condition in which there is no tricuspid valve, therefore no blood can flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle. For survival, an opening must be formed.

Trisomy 9 Mosaic (T9M) Syndrome and Chromosome 9 Program

Learn more about Lurie Children's Trisomy 9 Mosaic (T9M) Syndrome and Chromosome 9 Program, the first dedicated clinic for T9M, offering specialized care and research opportunities. Schedule an appointment today.

Truncus Arteriosus

Also called common arterial trunk, a condition in which there is one common vessel or trunk from the heart instead of a separate pulmonary artery and aorta.

Tularemia

A disease humans typically acquire after skin or mucous membrane contact with tissues or fluids of infected animals or from bites of infected ticks, deer flies or mosquitoes.

Turf Toe

Also called first metatarsal-phalangeal joint sprain, an injury to the joint capsule and ligaments connecting the big toe to the foot, causing pain at the ball of the foot.

Turner Syndrome

Learn about Turner syndrome care at Lurie Children's, including expert diagnosis, treatment options, and support for patients and families.

Turner Syndrome Program

Our Turner syndrome specialists provide comprehensive care to pediatric patients instead of addressing each symptom or issue separately. Learn more.

Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS)

Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) is a rare condition affecting identical twin pregnancies. Learn about diagnosis, treatment, recovery and more.

Ulcerative Colitis

An inflammatory bowel disease in which the inner lining of the large intestine (colon or bowel) and rectum become inflamed.

Ultrasound

An imaging technology using high-frequency sound waves to see structures within the human body. It is noninvasive, there is no radiation and the exam is painless.

Undefined (Undifferentiated) Connective Tissue Disorders

A condition with symptoms similar to systemic autoimmune disorders or connective tissue disease, but cannot be classified as a well-defined connective tissue disease.

Undescended Testes (Testicles; also Cryptorchidism)

A condition in which a baby boy’s testes do not descend properly to the scrotum.

Unicameral Bone Cysts

A unicameral bone cyst (UBC), also known as a simple bone cyst, is a fluid-filled cavity in the bone that typically occurs in the upper part of the arm or the upper part of the leg. Learn more.

Ureteral Duplication

A condition in which one kidney has two ureters, each one drains separately into the bladder.

Ureterocele

A balloon-like malformation of the area where a ureter, the tube from the kidney, enters the bladder.

Ureteropelvic Junction (UPJ) Obstruction

A blockage occurring where the kidney’s urine collection system meets the ureter, the tube that carries urine to the bladder.

Urinary Biofeedback

Urinary Biofeedback is a technique Lurie Children's uses to teach children to identify and control the proper muscles when urinating.

Urinary Frequency & Urgency

Also called overactive bladder, frequency of urination more than the usual seven times per day, and difficulty in delaying using the toilet.

Urinary Tract Infections

UTIs in children are infections of the urinary system and may involve just the bladder, or the bladder and the kidneys. Learn more about symptoms and treatment.

Urodynamics

In the Urodynamics Program, experts from Lurie Children's Division of Urology provide studies to evaluate bladder function.

Urology

Lurie Children’s Division of Urology is the largest pediatric urology department in the region with more than 17,000 pediatric visits each year. Learn more.

Uveitis

Uveitis is inflammation inside of the eye. Learn more.

Vaginal Agenesis

The incomplete development of the vagina, either shorter, nonexistent or simply a remnant of one.

Varicoceles

An excessive widening of the vein that drains blood from a testicle, acting like a varicose vein of the scrotum.

Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (VEDS)

Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (VEDS) is one of the different subtypes of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). We follow patients with diagnoses of VEDS in our Connective Tissue Disorder Program here at Lurie Children’s. Learn More.

Vascular Lesion Center

The Vascular Lesion Center (VLC) at Lurie Children’s is focused on providing comprehensive care for infants, children and adolescents with vascular lesions.

Vascular Rings

Vascular rings occur during fetal development due to an abnormal formation of the aorta and the surrounding blood vessels. Learn more.

Vascular Rings Program

Lurie Children’s surgeons have advanced methods used to correct vascular rings and operate on more pulmonary artery slings than any other hospital in North America. Learn more.

Vasculitis

Any inflammation of the blood vessels – both arteries and veins. The size of the vessel, the amount of inflammation and its location determines the severity of the disease.

Vein of Galen Malformations

Learn more about the leading treatments for Vein of Galen malformations with Lurie Children's dedicated specialists. Personalized care for optimal outcomes.

Velopharyngeal Dysfunction (VPD)

Velopharyngeal dysfunction, or VPD, is a condition resulting from inadequate closure of the velopharyngeal port, or the opening between the nose and the mouth, during speech. Learn more.

Venous Malformations

An abnormally-formed collection of veins is called a venous malformation, or slow-flow malformation. The veins in a venous malformation are formed irregularly before birth and become enlarged. Learn more.

Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Program

Lurie Children's Heart Center uses VADs to support the hearts of patients from infancy to young adulthood, including patients with end-stage cardiomyopathy and our most complex congenital heart disease populations. Learn more.

Ventricular Septal Defect

An opening between the two lower chambers of the heart.

Vesicoureteral Reflux

A relatively common condition in which urine backs up from the bladder into the kidneys.

Vestibular Rehabilitation

Lurie Children's uses vestibular rehab to treat children, adolescents and teenagers who are recovering from concussions.

Video EEG Services

Lurie Children’s Epilepsy Division provides an advanced approach made possible by a state-of-the-art imaging and monitoring system that records visual images of children as they play.

Visual Screening & Eye Examinations

Vision problems can lead to visual loss, developmental problems and learning disabilities. Monitoring your child's ability to see is important to the health of your growing child.

Voice Program

Lurie Children’s Voice Program treats common voice problems such as hoarseness, which may be caused by vocal cord nodules, cysts, or paralysis, intubation or prior surgeries.

Voice Therapy Program

Lurie Children’s Voice Therapy team is a multidisciplinary group specializing in the evaluation and treatment of children with voice disorders.

Vomiting

Vomiting is in children is common and has a variety of causes. Learn more about management of children's vomiting and when to see a physician.

von Willebrand Disease

The most common inherited bleeding disorder, in which a protein in the blood that aids clotting is defective or missing.

Warts

Learn about warts, common skin growths caused by a virus, their appearance, and potential treatments.

Webbed Penis

A condition, either present at birth or occasionally as a complication of circumcision, in which scrotum skin is attached too high on the underside of the penile shaft.

Wellness & Weight Management Program

Lurie Children’s provides compassionate and comprehensive care for children and teenagers who are overweight and want to make healthy lifestyle changes.

Williams Syndrome

Williams syndrome is a genetic condition that impacts many different body systems, although the symptoms, medical concerns and their severity vary widely. Learn more.

Williams Syndrome Program

Receive comprehensive care and support for children with Williams Syndrome at Lurie Children’s Williams Syndrome Program.

Wilms Tumor

Also called nephroblastoma, a cancerous tumor originating in the cells of the kidney.

Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome (WAS)

An extremely rare condition typified by the presence of eczema, thrombocytopenia (low number of blood platelets) and immune deficiency (causing severe infections).

Wound Healing Disorders

Wounds — breaking the skin surface — can be caused by many things, from accidents to surgeries, but the body’s process of healing is common to all.

Wound, Ostomy, Gastrostomy & Cecostomy Tube Care

Lurie Children’s has a team of advanced practiced nurses (APNs) all certified in wound and ostomy care.

X-linked Hypophosphatemia (XLH)

Learn about X-linked Hypophosphatemia (XLH), a rare genetic condition affecting bone and muscle health in children.

X-linked Lymphoproliferative Disease (XLP)

An extremely rare disorder of the immune system showing itself with infectious mononucleosis, dysgammaglobulinemia (abnormal levels of certain antibodies), and lymphoma.

X-linked Severe Combined Immunodeficiency 1 (SCID-X1)

A rare inherited disease in boy babies in which the body’s cells that fight off infection from certain bacteria, viruses and fungi are lacking or defective.

X-ray

X-rays give Lurie Children's radiologists a completely noninvasive way to diagnose or assess problems occurring in various areas of your child's body.