Carolinas Research Day 2021

Clinical Studies

04 Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. Is it True Kawasaki Disease or Sars-Cov-2 Triggered Kawasaki-Like Syndrome?

Bhuvna Mahajan, OMS-II, Nicole Rosenberg, OMS-III, Hanna Sahhar, MD

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System

Abstract: Per World Health Organization, Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C) has been identified as a priority disease that must be further characterized. Previous data suggests children were less susceptible to severe illness caused by the unprecedented SARS-CoV2 disease. However, recent data indicates that children are in danger of contracting the virus. Furthermore, they may also develop a multitude of symptoms similar to Kawasaki’s Disease [KD], an acute febrile systemic childhood vasculitis caused by an unknown etiology, in the weeks following COVID-19 infection. This novel disease state is known as Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children, a kawasaki-like syndrome. MIS-C is a hyperinflammatory syndrome seen in pediatric patients characterized by fever and mucocutaneous manifestations. On May 14th, 2020 The Center for Disease Control (CDC) defined the case criteria for Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children [MIS-C] in an effort to define this newfound spectrum of illness, though much remains unknown

about the risk factors, early manifestations, and specific treatment. Our project aims to describe the characteristics of children presenting with MIS-C associated with COVID-19. All patients involved in our study present with qualifying criteria for MIS-C based on the CDC definition. This definition includes: less than 21 years of age, fever of 38.0°C, positive lab markers for inflammation, multisystem organ involvement, no alternative diagnosis, a confirmed COVID-19 infection or exposure within 4 weeks prior to symptom onset. By retrospectively evaluating pediatric patient charts and comparing demographics, vitals, cytokine profiles, imaging, and treatment plans, we aim to isolate systemic issues in play and determine whether the subjects present with MIS-C due to true Kawasaki Disease or a novel Kawasaki- like Syndrome. We believe clarifying and exploring the differences in etiology and pathology of MIS-C may lead to standardized treatment methods and positive outcomes for patients.

24