Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children with COVID-19 in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children is a rare and serious complication o COVID-19. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children presents with systemic inflammation, end-organ dysfunction, shock, and elevated inflammatory markers and abnormal complete blood counts requiring intensive care. Clinical features and outcomes are less well-known in children. The aim of the study was to find out the prevalence of Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children with COVID-19.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among children diagnosed with COVID-19 in Kanti Children’s Hospital over one year from 01 January 2021 to 31 December 2021. Children aged 1 month to 14 years with COVID-19 were included in the study, and those who failed to give consent were excluded from the study. A convenience sampling method was used. An analysis was conducted on the demographics, clinical characteristics, laboratory results, treatment, and outcome of every kid diagnosed with multisystem inflammatory syndrome among children linked to COVID-19. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated.

Results: Among 315 COVID-19 patients, multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children was found in 57 (18.09%) (13.84-22.35, 95% Confidence Interval). Thirty seven (64.91%) of the patients with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in Children had gastrointestinal symptoms. Shock at initial presentation was also present in 25 (43.86%) patients. Most 37 (64.91%) of them were treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and steroids, and 20 (35.08%) patients died.

Conclusions: Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children is one of the most common complications of COVID-19 in children. Most of the patients of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children present with gastrointestinal manifestations. Other features at presentation were hyperinflammation, hypoalbuminemia, and shock. The majority of patients required pediatric intensive care unit admission and oxygen supplementation.