Can Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children Be Managed in the Outpatient Setting? An EHR-Based Cohort Study...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) is a serious condition requiring prompt medical attention.
• Most reported MIS-C cases involve hospitalization due to severe symptoms.
• Understanding the spectrum of MIS-C severity is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize pediatric patients diagnosed with MIS-C who were managed exclusively as outpatients.
• To assess the feasibility and safety of outpatient management for mild MIS-C presentations.
• To increase awareness among healthcare providers regarding milder forms of MIS-C.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of electronic health record data from nine pediatric medical centers.
• Inclusion of primary chart review for detailed patient information.
• Identification of patients with confirmed MIS-C diagnosis and exclusive outpatient management.

Main Results:

• Seven pediatric patients with MIS-C were identified and managed solely on an outpatient basis.
• These cases represent milder presentations of the syndrome.
• Outpatient management was feasible for this cohort.

Conclusions:

• Mild presentations of MIS-C can be effectively managed in an outpatient setting.
• Healthcare providers should consider outpatient management for children with less severe MIS-C symptoms.
• Further research may explore criteria for safe outpatient MIS-C care.