Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes in Multisystemic Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) Associated with...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare, severe condition linked to COVID-19, affecting multiple organ systems.
• Understanding MIS-C's clinical profile and outcomes is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the clinical characteristics and outcomes of pediatric patients diagnosed with MIS-C associated with COVID-19.
• To evaluate the short-term and long-term sequelae in children treated for MIS-C.

Main Methods:

• A 12-month prospective study at a children's hospital in Bucharest.
• Inclusion of 36 pediatric patients (0-18 years) meeting WHO, RCPCH, and CDC criteria for MIS-C.
• Analysis of clinical, laboratory, treatment, and outcome data, with follow-up evaluations up to 12 months post-discharge.

Main Results:

• All 36 patients presented with fever and inflammatory syndrome.
• Common manifestations included mucocutaneous (63.8%), gastrointestinal (52.7%), cardiac (47.2%), pulmonary (38.8%), and neurological (11.1%) symptoms.
• Two patients experienced sequelae: coronary aneurysms and pulmonary opacities. Most patients showed favorable outcomes.

Conclusions:

• MIS-C associated with COVID-19, while potentially severe, generally has favorable outcomes with appropriate treatment.
• Systematic monitoring is essential to detect and manage rare long-term, organ-specific complications, ensuring complete recovery.