Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children and Adolescents Associated with COVID-19: Review

Abstract

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) is a newly recognized multiorgan disease seen in children, adolescent and young adults presumed to be a delayed immune mediated complication of Corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection leading to severe acute respiratory syndrome. MIS-C can be associated with life threatening organ dysfunction requiring complex multidisciplinary care. Early recognition is important in order to prevent complication and serious sequalae. Because it is a post infective complication, in most of the cases RT-PCR comes negative though antibodies to COVID-19 are positive. Although SARS-CoV-2 in children are generally mild and nonfatal, there is increasing evidence of MIS-C. Clinical and laboratory features of MIS-C are similar to those of Kawasaki disease like syndrome and Toxic Shock Syndrome. Pathophysiology of MIS-C is still unclear and mainly due to formation of autoantibody and immune complex which activates inflammation. Most of the MIS-C associated with COVID-19, need treatment with ionotropic agents and anticoagulants. The long-term outcome of MIS-C like coronary artery aneurysm formation remain unknown and needs close follow up.