Stellungnahme zu medizinischen Massnahmen bei immigrierenden Kindern und Jugendlichen

Suggestions are made for a rational diagnostic approach using routine examinations in order to detect or exclude treatable or infectious and other diseases in immigrant children and adolescents more often. This diagnostic procedure should be carried out as soon as possible after arrival in Germany. A history and thorough body examination are substantial components of the diagnostic procedure. Various viral, bacterial, protozoan and worm infections which should be considered are described. Some of these should be routinely included in the examination, others should be symptom-dependent or should be especially considered when originating from a high-risk area. Hemoglobinopathies are the most common form of inherited diseases. The children should be examined for malnutrition and poisoning by, for example, insecticides or mercury. Finally the vaccination status should be defined and possible missing inoculations should be administered.