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Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C): Comparison of the First and the Second Waves
Mimi Ganguly1, Purbasha Gupta1, Debopama Biswas1
1Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Institute of Child Health, Kolkata, West Bengal.
Insights
The second wave of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) in India showed more Kawasaki disease-like symptoms, heart issues, and ICU admissions. Steroid treatment was also more common during the second wave.
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.
Abstract:
This study comparing the different parameters of children suffering from multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) in Kolkata, India, during the two waves (July, 2020-January, 2021 and April-July, 2021) showed that the second wave had a higher propensity of Kawasaki disease (KD)-like presentation, cardiac affection and pediatric intensive care unit admission, and increased incidence of use of steroids for treatment.
