Standardized Approach to Pediatric Post-COVID Syndrome and Its Impact on Children and Adolescents: A Perspective From

Shadya Nzale1, Anne Perrin2, Cindy Soroken1,2

  • 1From the Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneve.

Insights

Pediatric post-COVID syndrome (pPCS) significantly impacts children, causing fatigue and school absenteeism. Management requires integrated medical, social, and educational support to address its burden.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Pediatric post-COVID syndrome (pPCS) is a growing concern affecting a significant number of children.
  • Understanding the clinical spectrum and impact of pPCS is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical manifestations of pPCS in children.
  • To evaluate the biopsychosocial impact, including school absenteeism and quality of life.
  • To outline current management strategies for pPCS.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective, single-center study analyzed data from pPCS patients (May 2021-November 2022).
  • Functional impact was assessed using school absenteeism records and validated scales (ADRS, PedsQL, Fatigue Severity Scale).
  • The Schellong test was used to evaluate orthostatic intolerance.

Main Results:

  • Common symptoms include extreme fatigue (84%), exertion intolerance (82%), orthostatism (66%), dyspnea (66%), and headache (66%).
  • Sixty percent experienced school absenteeism; specialized consultations included child psychiatry (48%) and pulmonology (46%).
  • A subset (20%) presented with functional disorder symptoms, showing increased thoracic pain, specific referrals, and worse psychosocial scores.

Conclusions:

  • pPCS imposes a substantial socio-educational burden on affected children.
  • Integrated medical, social, and educational care approaches are essential for managing pPCS.
  • Recognizing distinct pPCS presentations, including functional disorders, is vital for tailored interventions.
Abstract

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