Artificial Intelligence in Pediatrics: Expanding Horizons and Addressing Challenges – A Comprehensive Review

Vaishya, Raju; Bagga, Arvind; Sibal, Anupam; Kar, Sujoy; Reddy, Sangita

doi:10.21608/bmfj.2025.390938.2450

Artificial Intelligence in Pediatrics: Expanding Horizons and Addressing Challenges – A Comprehensive Review

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

¹ Department of Orthopaedics, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals

² Department of Pediatric Nephrology Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals

³ Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals

⁴ Vice President, Apollo Hospitals

⁵ Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals

10.21608/bmfj.2025.390938.2450

Abstract

Purpose: This Review aims to explore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in pediatric healthcare, focusing on its applications, challenges, and future directions. It seeks to highlight key ethical considerations, knowledge gaps, and recommendations for the responsible integration of AI technologies.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted from March 20-25, 2025, to identify relevant studies, reviews, and case studies related to AI in pediatrics across databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, and IEEE Xplore. Search terms included combinations of "artificial intelligence," "machine learning," and "pediatrics." Only peer-reviewed articles published in English were included, while studies unrelated to pediatrics or AI, as well as non-peer-reviewed articles, were excluded.

Results: The analysis reveals that AI has significant potential to enhance early diagnosis and personalize treatment plans for pediatric patients while addressing unique challenges such as developmental variability and communication barriers. However, critical issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the lack of diverse, high-quality datasets pose challenges to integration. Ethical concerns in areas like mental health assessments also require careful consideration.

Conclusion: Despite its potential to revolutionize pediatric care, AI technology remains underutilized in this field. To leverage AI effectively, continued research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a focus on ethical integration are essential to ensure equitable access and improved patient outcomes for children, ultimately positioning AI as a pivotal element in the future of pediatric healthcare.

Keywords