A Clinical Review of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children

Authors

Jodi L. Johnson, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Pediatric emergency medicine

Advisor

Dr. Thomas Colletti

Abstract

• Objectives - The purpose of this article is to provide a clinical review of the clinical presentation, evaluation, and treatment of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C).
• Methods – The literature review consisted of the evaluation of six review articles that used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definition for MIS-C.
• Results – Most children with MIS-C present with persistent fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and conjunctivitis three to four weeks after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. This hyperinflammatory syndrome causes significant serum inflammatory, cardiac, coagulative, and hematologic abnormalities. Complications of MIS-C include cardiac dysfunction, myocarditis, and acute kidney injury. The most common treatments for MIS-C are intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), corticosteroids, and vasoactive agents.
• Conclusion – This new and life-threatening syndrome is associated with SARS-CoV-2. It is characterized by hyperinflammation in multiple organ systems that can lead to organ damage and failure. Most children with MIS-C will survive with early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment.

Recommended Citation

Johnson JL. A Clinical Review of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 3(3).