A rare adverse reaction of COVID-19 that causes inflammation in different parts of the body in children is called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Sometimes, it can cause severe symptoms that, without immediate treatment, can lead to death. Fortunately, most children make a full recovery by getting treatment in a hospital.
Furthermore, MIS-C causes inflammation that may affect multiple parts of the body, including the brain, skin, lungs, kidneys, heart, and eyes. Usually, it happens along with a fever that may last more than 24 hours. Generally, this adverse reaction to COVID-19 affects about 1 in every 3,000 to 4,000 children.
In addition, MIS-C is a life-threatening condition, and you should go to the nearest emergency room (ER) or call 911 if your child has severe chest pain or trouble breathing.
What is The Difference between MIS-C and MIS-A?
Both terms mean the same disorder, but the difference is the age of the affected person. While MIS-C affects children and young adults before the age of 21, MID-A affects people over 21 years old. Moreover, MIS-C happens more commonly than MIS-A, but the adult form has more severe cases.
Symptoms
While the primary symptom of this disorder is fever that lasts for more than 1 day, it may also cause other symptoms. Check some examples below:
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Skin rash
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach or abdominal (belly) pain
- Bloodshot or red eyes
Immediately contact or visit a doctor if any of the previous symptoms occur in your child. Otherwise, it may lead to serious complications (including permanent organ damage).
Causes and Risk Factors
Nowadays, experts do not know the exact cause of MIS-C. However, they continue to study the cause and its long-term effects on children. Generally, this is an adverse reaction to COVID-19. Furthermore, some studies have shown that MIS-C may happen due to an overreaction of the immune system after COVID-19 infection. Certain genetic factors may also contribute to MIS-C.
While anyone can develop MIS, there are some factors that could elevate your risk even more. These include:
- Recent COVID-19 infection – Most of the time, MIS-C and MIS-A are linked to the COVID-19 infection.
- Do not get the vaccine against this viral infection
- Underlying disorders – MIS-C is more common in people who already have the following disorders. For example, obesity (excessive body weight), asthma, and other chronic (long-term) conditions.
- Age – While it may happen at any age, it often affects children and teenagers before the age of 21.
- Race – According to some studies, MIS is more common among certain racial and ethnic minority groups.
What Are The Potential Complications of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome?
This is a serious health condition that requires immediate treatment. Otherwise, it may lead to the following complications. These include:
- Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart)
- Coronary artery aneurysms (this is a weakening of the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle)
- Arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Gastrointestinal problems (including severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and others)
- Hematological issues (including clotting problems)
- Multiple organ failure
The previous list does not contain a complete list of complications, but you can talk with your healthcare professional about ways to reduce the risk.
How to Prevent Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome?
One of the best ways to protect your children from this serious health condition is to protect them against COVID-19. Doctors often recommend the following tips. These include:
- Get vaccinated for COVID-19
- Teach your children to wear a face mask that covers their mouth and nose
- Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth
- Do not stay near people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19
- Sanitize and clean frequently touched surfaces and objects
- Maintain the socially distance from other people (at least 6 feet)
- It is also recommended to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of this condition starts like many others with a physical examination to check for abnormalities linked to the disease. Doctors may also ask some questions about the symptoms and medical history to gather more information about the disease. However, to confirm the diagnosis, they often perform the following tests. For example:
- Echocardiogram
- Chest X-ray
- CT (computerized tomography) scans
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans
- Molecular tests (PCR) to check for COVID-19 infection
Usually, healthcare professionals also make a differential diagnosis, in which they will check for other disorders that cause similar symptoms. These include Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome.
Treatment
Commonly, the treatment goal is to ease the symptoms, prevent life-threatening complications, and improve your child’s quality of life. Check the most common options below:
- Ventilator (this option gives extra oxygen to your child from an assisted breathing device)
- Antiviral therapy – Physicians usually prescribe Remdesivir to treat COVID-19 infection
- Oral and IV (intravenous) medicines – These medications are used to reduce inflammation. Physicians often recommend Corticosteroids, IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin), and Glucocorticoids.
- IV fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after treatment will I feel better?
Usually, it takes 2-3 weeks to notice improvements. Most of the time, affected people will stay in a hospital for some time because doctors need to monitor their disorder.
Is multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children contagious?
While there is no evidence that suggests MIS-C is contagious, the infection that causes it can easily spread from one person to another.
When should I go to the ER?
It is advised to go to the nearest emergency room (ER) or call 911 if any of the following symptoms occur. These include:
- Breathing problems
- Prolonged chest pain
- Confusion
- Severe stomach pain
- Difficulty staying awake
- Gray or blue tone of their skin, lips, or fingernails (cyanosis)
If you have any other questions, ask your healthcare provider.
