Clinical evolution of cases of COVID-19 infection in neopediatrics: a scoping review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Viral Respiratory Illnesses
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all age groups, including newborns and children.
• Understanding the specific clinical manifestations, therapeutic interventions, and prognoses in pediatric populations is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively map existing knowledge on the clinical findings, treatment strategies, and outcomes of COVID-19 in newborns and children.
• To synthesize data from available literature to inform clinical practice and future research.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology was employed.
• Searches were conducted across eight databases and an electronic search engine in April 2020.

Main Results:

• Twelve studies were analyzed, detailing common clinical findings such as fever, respiratory distress, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Laboratory findings included elevated C-reactive protein, leukopenia, and lymphopenia.
• Radiological findings often showed bilateral ground-glass opacities and pneumonia.
• Treatments encompassed antivirals, respiratory support, immunomodulatory therapy, glucocorticoids, antibiotics, and alpha interferon.
• Most cases resulted in cure and hospital discharge.

Conclusions:

• While hospitalization was frequently required for pediatric COVID-19 patients, the overall outcome was predominantly a cure.
• This review provides a scientific foundation for understanding the clinical spectrum, therapeutic approaches, and prognoses in neopediatric COVID-19 cases.