A Comprehensive Review of Neuromuscular Manifestations of COVID-19 and Management of Pre-Existing Neuromuscular Disorders in Children

Abstract

Since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, several studies have been published describing neuromuscular manifestations of the disease, as well as management of pre-existing pediatric neuro-muscular disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. These disorders include muscular dystrophies, myasthenic syndromes, peripheral nerve disorders, and spinal muscular atrophy. Such patients are a vulnerable population due to frequent complications such as scoliosis, cardiomyopathy, and restrictive lung disease that put them at risk of severe complications of COVID-19. In this review, neuromuscular manifestations of COVID-19 in children and the management of pre-existing pediatric neuromuscular disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic are discussed. We also review strategies to alleviate pandemic-associated disruptions in clinical care and research, including the emerging role of telemedicine and telerehabilitation to address the continued special needs of these patients.