Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) of a toddler initially presenting with fever and pyuria

Kinyui Alice Lo1, Lee Gan Goh2,3, Rajeev Ramachandran4,5

  • 1Department of Family Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore lokinyui@gmail.com.

BMJ Case Reports
|January 3, 2024
PubMed

Insights

This case study details multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) in a young East Asian toddler, presenting uniquely with pyuria. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, though coronary abnormalities may persist.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but serious condition following SARS-CoV-2 infection.
  • Early recognition is vital for timely intervention and management of potential complications.

Observation:

  • A young East Asian toddler presented with fever, pyuria, conjunctivitis, and extremity changes 5 weeks post-COVID-19 recovery.
  • Initial symptoms mimicked a urinary tract infection, delaying MIS-C diagnosis.

Findings:

  • Laboratory results revealed elevated inflammatory markers, thrombocytopenia, and markedly elevated NT-proBNP.
  • Despite prompt inpatient treatment, mild coronary abnormalities were noted 9 months post-discharge.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the diverse presentations of MIS-C, including pyuria, and its occurrence in specific demographics.
  • Emphasizes the need for heightened clinical suspicion for MIS-C in children with post-viral febrile illnesses, even with atypical initial symptoms.

Related Concept Videos

Increased Body Temperature01:25

Increased Body Temperature

A body temperature above  38°C  (100.4 °F) is known as fever or pyrexia, and a person with fever is termed 'febrile.' Typically, the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that acts as the body's thermostat, regulates body temperature through a thermoregulatory setpoint. It receives signals from cold and warm thermal receptors throughout the body and adjusts the body's temperature accordingly. Fever occurs when this hypothalamic setpoint is altered, usually in...
675
Tonsillitis I: Introduction01:30

Tonsillitis I: Introduction

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, which are two lymphoid tissue masses at the back of the throat. This condition can cause discomfort and irritation in the throat.
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
264
Inflammatory Response I: Vascular and Cellular01:30

Inflammatory Response I: Vascular and Cellular

The inflammatory response is the body's defense against infection, injury, or irritation from bacteria, trauma, toxins, or heat. Inflammation helps locate and destroy pathogens and remove damaged tissue elements to heal the body. During this initial phase, fluid, blood products, and nutrients migrate to the injured area, resulting in redness, heat, swelling, ache, and loss of function. Moreover, signs of systemic inflammation include fever, increased WBC count, malaise, anorexia, nausea,...
11.2K
Acute Pharyngitis01:30

Acute Pharyngitis

Introduction
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
696
Patterns of Fever01:26

Patterns of Fever

Before understanding the types and patterns of fever, it is essential to know its phases.
2.6K
Tonsillitis II: Management01:26

Tonsillitis II: Management

This lesson will focus on the different treatment options for managing tonsillitis, which typically depend on the cause and severity.
114