Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children: a case series

Area of Science:

• Pediatric critical care medicine
• Infectious diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is an emerging condition linked to SARS-CoV-2.
• Pediatric tertiary hospitals are increasingly encountering MIS-C cases.
• Understanding the clinical spectrum and management of MIS-C is vital.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a case series of MIS-C in a pediatric tertiary care setting.
• To highlight the clinical presentation and management strategies for MIS-C.
• To contribute to the growing body of literature on this pediatric inflammatory syndrome.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of medical records for pediatric patients meeting MIS-C criteria.
• Inclusion criteria based on Brazilian Ministry of Health and RCPCH guidelines.
• Review of clinical data, laboratory results, and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

• Six pediatric patients (mean age 126 months) presented with fever and multisystem involvement.
• Common symptoms included abdominal pain, diarrhea, coagulopathy, and elevated inflammatory markers.
• Significant cardiovascular impairment (83%) and mucocutaneous symptoms (83%) were observed; one patient had coronary artery dilation.
• Five patients (83%) received intravenous immunoglobulin and/or pulse methylprednisolone; one patient expired.
• Five out of six patients tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 IgG.

Conclusions:

• This case series adds to the understanding of MIS-C, an emerging pediatric condition.
• The potential severity of MIS-C necessitates early recognition and diagnosis.
• Prompt management following exclusion of infectious causes is critical for patient outcomes.