To examine the demographic characteristics, hospitalization patterns, and the economic burden among pediatric inpatients with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) using a nationally representative dataset.

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impaired motor coordination that affects daily activities and academic performance. Although commonly identified in outpatient and educational settings, little is known about hospitalization patterns and healthcare costs among children with DCD.

Data were obtained from the 2022 National Inpatient Sample (NIS), which represents approximately 20% of all U.S. hospital discharges. Patients younger than 18 years with a DCD diagnosis were included, yielding 1,480 records. Summary statistics described demographics (age, sex, race), clinical outcomes (length of stay [LOS], in-hospital mortality), and economic indicators (total hospital charges [TOTCHG]).

A total of 1,480 pediatric hospitalizations with DCD were identified. The mean age was 15.2 ± 0.6 years and 55.5% were female. Racial distribution was 53.9% White, 20.5% Hispanic, 15.3% Black, and 10.3% other.

The most common hospitalization reason was seizures (n=183, 12.4%), followed by respiratory failure (n=104, 7.0%). The mean LOS was 7.37 ± 18.78 days, and in-hospital mortality occurred in 9 patients (0.61%). The mean TOTCHG was $107,557.50 ± $319,952.60 (range: $113-$6,768,003), indicating wide cost variability. 

Hospitalizations for DCD occur exclusively in children and are associated with a high financial burden despite low mortality. Seizures and respiratory failure were the leading causes of admission. Early recognition and coordinated outpatient management may help reduce hospitalization rates and improve outcomes for children with DCD.