Atrial Fibrillation as a Rare Complication of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C): A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a serious condition characterized by hyperinflammation and multi-organ involvement.
• Cardiac manifestations are common in MIS-C, including myopericarditis, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
• The spectrum of cardiac arrhythmias associated with MIS-C requires further investigation.

Observation:

• A 17-year-old male presented with shock and multi-organ failure, meeting diagnostic criteria for MIS-C.
• The patient subsequently developed atrial fibrillation during his illness.
• Atrial fibrillation resolved following the initiation of MIS-C treatment.

Findings:

• This case highlights atrial fibrillation as a potential cardiac manifestation of MIS-C.
• The resolution of atrial fibrillation with MIS-C treatment suggests a direct link between the syndrome and the arrhythmia.
• Arrhythmias may be an under-recognized complication of MIS-C.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider monitoring for cardiac arrhythmias in children diagnosed with MIS-C.
• Understanding the link between MIS-C and arrhythmias can improve patient management and outcomes.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiology of cardiac arrhythmias in MIS-C.