COVID-19 and Dysphagia in Children: A Review

Abstract

Coronavirus (COVID-19) infection usually causes mild symptoms in children. However, serious complications may occur as a result of both acute infection or in association with the multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C). Dysphagia may develop as a sequela of COVID-19. We review the limited data on dysphagia associated with COVID-19 infection in children. Children can develop acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to severe COVID-19 infection leading to endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. These children can possibly develop post-intubation dysphagia. Screening for the presence of dysphagia, in an effort to minimize aspiration, in children with active COVID-19 infection must be done carefully to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus. Those children diagnosed with persistent dysphagia after COVID-19 infection has resolved will need further evaluation and management by pediatric subspecialists experienced in treating children with this condition. We recommend, this evaluation and treatment be done by a pediatric aerodigestive team.