Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in neonates associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, a different entity?

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a novel disease linked to SARS-CoV-2.
• A similar condition, multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in neonates (MIS-N), affects newborns.
• MIS-C typically impacts children over 5 years old.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe three cases of Mexican newborns diagnosed with MIS-N.
• To highlight the multiorgan compromise and Kawasaki disease (KD)-like cardiac manifestations in these neonates.
• To discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with MIS-N.

Main Methods:

• Case series reporting on three Mexican newborns.
• Clinical presentation, laboratory findings (including anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG), and cardiac features were analyzed.
• Review of current literature on MIS-N and KD.

Main Results:

• Three newborns presented with MIS-N, multiorgan compromise, and positive anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG.
• All three infants developed cardiac abnormalities resembling Kawasaki disease.
• The cases underscore the potential impact of SARS-CoV-2 on neonatal health.

Conclusions:

• MIS-N is a distinct entity in neonates, presenting with severe systemic inflammation and cardiac involvement.
• Early diagnosis and management are crucial, though challenging due to overlapping symptoms with other neonatal conditions.
• Further research is needed to understand the pathophysiology and optimize treatment strategies for MIS-N.