A dermatologic perspective on multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric immunology
• Infectious diseases
• Public health

Background:

• An emerging immune-mediated syndrome, multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), has been identified in children.
• MIS-C is associated with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
• The syndrome's incidence follows the initial infectious assault by several weeks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on MIS-C.
• To understand the clinical presentation of MIS-C.
• To focus on the mucocutaneous manifestations of MIS-C.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of published data on MIS-C.
• Analysis of clinical phenotypes and symptoms.
• Focus on mucocutaneous features.

Main Results:

• MIS-C presents with prolonged fever, skin eruptions, neck stiffness, and gastrointestinal issues.
• Abdominal pain is a prominent gastrointestinal symptom.
• Shock and organ dysfunction can occur, but respiratory distress is typically absent.

Conclusions:

• MIS-C is a significant pediatric condition associated with COVID-19.
• Understanding its diverse manifestations, particularly mucocutaneous signs, is crucial for diagnosis and management.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiology and long-term outcomes of MIS-C.