Cardiac Manifestations of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) Associated with SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Abstract

Context: Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is an emerging condition after the spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, termed COVID-19. This study aimed to describe the cardiac manifestations of children diagnosed with MIS-C. Evidence Acquisition: This narrative review was conducted by searching the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to review MIS-C cardiac manifestations up to September 30, 2020. The demographic features, past medical history, clinical signs and symptoms, cardiac involvement, and the type of COVID-19 diagnosis confirmation were extracted. Results: In many children, MIS-C seems to be a post-infectious complication of the COVID-19 infection. This syndrome affects multiple organs and has various clinical manifestations mimicking Kawasaki disease. Patients frequently present with persistent fever, kidney injury, gastrointestinal (GI) problems, neurologic symptoms, mucosal changes, conjunctivitis, and cardiac involvement. Children with MIS are more likely to present with hypotension, shock, and cardiac dysfunction, rather than coronary artery abnormalities and arrhythmia. Children with MIS need close observation; some need to be hospitalized, and a few may need a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) admission. Treatment currently includes anticoagulants, IV immunoglobulin, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Conclusions: As a novel syndrome associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, MIS-C is potentially lethal. Cardiac manifestations, including coronary and myocardial involvement, are common and should be carefully identified. With prompt diagnosis and proper treatment, most children will survive, but the outcomes of the disease are unknown, so long-term follow-ups are required.