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Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children
Muhammad Waseem1, Masood A Shariff2, Ee Tein Tay3
1Department of Emergency Medicine, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, Bronx, New York; Weill Cornell Medicine New York and New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York.
Insights
Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a serious condition linked to COVID-19. Early recognition and treatment are vital for better outcomes in affected children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a novel condition associated with COVID-19.
- MIS-C shares clinical features with Kawasaki disease (KD) and toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on MIS-C.
- To outline evaluation and treatment algorithms for suspected MIS-C in emergency departments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of MIS-C cases.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols.
Main Results:
- MIS-C presents with a broad clinical spectrum involving multiple organ systems.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation and laboratory findings, with frequent gastrointestinal, cardiac, and coagulopathy issues.
- High suspicion is crucial for COVID-19 exposed children.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of MIS-C are critical for optimal patient outcomes.
- Management requires a multidisciplinary approach in emergency settings.
Background:
Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a newly recognized condition affecting children with recent infection or exposure to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). MIS-C has symptoms that affect multiple organs systems, with some clinical features resembling Kawasaki disease (KD) and toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
Objective Of The Review:
Our goal was to review the current literature and describe the evaluation and treatment algorithms for children suspected of having MIS-C who present to the emergency department.
Discussion:
MIS-C has a wide clinical spectrum and diagnosis is based on a combination of both clinical and laboratory findings. The exact mechanism of immune dysregulation of MIS-C is not well understood. Physical findings may evolve and do not necessarily appear at the same time. Gastrointestinal, cardiac, inflammatory, and coagulopathy manifestations and dysfunction are seen frequently in MIS-C.
Conclusions:
The diagnosis of MIS-C is based on clinical presentation and specific laboratory findings. In the emergency setting, a high level of suspicion for MIS-C is required in patients exposed to COVID-19. Early diagnosis and prompt initiation of therapy offer the best chance for optimal outcomes.
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