Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C): Comparison of the First and the Second Waves

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Cardiology

Background:

• Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but serious condition.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has seen distinct waves of infection, potentially impacting pediatric inflammatory syndromes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes of MIS-C patients during two distinct pandemic waves in Kolkata, India.
• To identify differences in presentation, severity, and treatment between the two MIS-C waves.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of MIS-C cases.
• Comparison of patient demographics, clinical features, laboratory findings, and treatment modalities between July 2020-January 2021 and April-July 2021.

Main Results:

• The second wave (April-July 2021) exhibited a higher incidence of Kawasaki disease (KD)-like presentations.
• Cardiac involvement and pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admissions were more frequent in the second wave.
• Increased utilization of steroid therapy was observed during the second wave.

Conclusions:

• The clinical profile and severity of MIS-C may evolve between pandemic waves.
• Findings suggest a potential shift towards more severe, KD-like presentations with cardiac complications in the second wave.
• This highlights the need for vigilant monitoring and tailored management strategies for MIS-C during different pandemic phases.