Multiple-organ failure as a result of non-COVID-19 coronavirus infection

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Virology
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Coronavirus infections (CoV) are generally mild in children, typically presenting as upper respiratory tract infections.
• Exceptions include preterm infants and those with chronic conditions, where CoV can lead to more severe outcomes.
• Severe CoV infections can exceptionally impact multiple organs, including the heart, brain, and gastrointestinal tract.

Observation:

• This study details a rare clinical case of a 5-year-old child with a severe alpha coronavirus (CoV-NL63) infection.
• The patient presented with critical multi-organ failure, indicating a severe systemic response to the viral infection.
• Neurological sequelae, specifically bulbar injury and vascular thrombosis, were observed as significant complications.

Findings:

• The alpha coronavirus (CoV-NL63) was identified as the causative agent of the severe illness.
• The infection resulted in extensive damage, including vascular thrombosis and neurological deficits.
• This case highlights the potential for severe, multi-systemic disease even from non-SARS-CoV-2 coronaviruses.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider severe CoV infections, including those caused by alpha coronaviruses, in pediatric patients with multi-organ failure.
• Early recognition and management of CoV-NL63 are crucial to prevent severe complications like neurological sequelae and thrombosis.
• This case underscores the need for vigilance regarding diverse coronavirus strains and their potential impact on pediatric health.