COVID-19 in a child with down syndrome and extensive pulmonary tuberculosis: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: although pediatric patients have comparatively fewer cases of COVID-19, children with Down Syndrome exhibit comorbidities such as immunodeficiency, diabetes and, in this perspective, are considered a population at risk for severe COVID-19. In addition, the literature also points to an unfavorable perspective on co-infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, considered an important comorbidity and a predictor of a worse clinical outcome. Description: female child, nine years old, with Down Syndrome, congenital heart disease and prematurity, with significant weight loss and intermittent fever for six months. A week ago, she had an intensification of fever, productive cough and mild respiratory distress. RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 detectable in nasopharynx swab, chest X-ray with diffuse alveolar infiltrate, chest CT with consolidations, excavation, solid micronodules in a sprouting tree pattern mainly in the right upper and lower lobes. Molecular rapid test for Mycobacterium tuberculosis detectable in gastric lavage. After specific treatment, the patient progressed well and was discharged from the hospital after 72 hours without fever and improvement in her breathing pattern. Discussion: despite the extensive pulmonary involvement, the patient did not require invasive ventilatory support and presented a satisfactory short-term outcome. Therefore, the relevance of the association of Tuberculosis and COVID-19 and other comorbidities in the pediatric age group still remains uncertain.