Emergency diagnostic laparoscopy for multisystem inflammatory syndrome in a child

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• COVID-19 and MIS-C present with diverse symptoms, including acute abdominal diseases.
• Conditions like intestinal obstruction, appendicitis, and bowel perforation can be mimicked by MIS-C.
• Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for pediatric patients with abdominal emergencies.

Observation:

• A 6-year-old female presented with MIS-C and acute purulent pelviperitonitis.
• The patient's condition mimicked surgical abdominal emergencies.
• Diagnosis was confirmed as MIS-C with secondary peritonitis.

Findings:

• Successful treatment was achieved using laparoscopy and antibiotics.
• The patient recovered without intravenous immunoglobulin or aspirin therapy.
• Minimally invasive surgical intervention proved effective.

Implications:

• Early laparoscopic intervention may be a valuable approach for MIS-C-related abdominal complications.
• This case highlights the importance of considering MIS-C in children with acute abdominal presentations.
• Minimally invasive surgery can be a safe and effective alternative in select MIS-C cases.