Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: The Importance of Early Evaluation of Laboratory Parameters

Abstract

Background: Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is an uncommon condition associated with COVID-19 with a wide spectrum of presentations, ranging from Kawasaki-like disease to multisystem involvement with shock. The association between the laboratory characteristics and unfavorable outcome has been described, but the cut-off points associated with higher risk have not yet been defined. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe and analyze the characteristics of patients with MIS-C and their associations with the laboratory findings. Methods: We conducted an analytical and retrospective study of pediatric patients hospitalized between May 2020 and June 2021 with diagnosis of MIS-C in Hospital General de Niños Dr. Ricardo Gutiérrez (HNRG). The cohort was made up of 23 patients, 17 female (53.13%) and 15 male (46.87%); mean age was 7.67 years (range 0.5-14.91). Ten patients (31.25%) presented shock. Clinical and echocardiographic data and values of high-sensitive troponin I, N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), platelets and lymphocytes at the time of diagnosis were obtained and compared between those with shock during evolution (group 1) and those without shock (group 2). Results: There was a significant difference in baseline elevated NT-proBNP values between both groups (p = 0.008), but not in troponin levels and lymphocyte and platelet counts. Of the 13 patients who required inotropic agents, 58% had baseline lymphopenia (p = 0.006 vs those who did not require inotropic drugs). Conclusions: Although mortality due to MIS-C is low, cardiac involvement and hemodynamic impairment may be common. The availability of a commonly used laboratory tool for patient categorization could help to mitigate risks and obtain early referral to specialized centers.