Pediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome associated with SARS-CoV-2: a case series quantitative systematic review

Abstract

Pediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS) is infrequent, but children might present as a life-threatening disease. In a systematic quantitative review, we analyzed 11 studies PIMS-TS, including 468 children reported before Jul 1st. We found a myriad of clinical features, but we were able to describe common characteristics: previously healthy school-aged children, persistent fever and gastrointestinal symptoms, lymphopenia, and high inflammatory markers. Clinical syndromes like myocarditis and Kawasaki disease were present in only one-third of cases each one. PICU admission was frequent, although LOS was less than one week, and mortality was low. Most patients received immunoglobulin or steroids, although the level of evidence for that treatment is low. PIMS-ST was recently described, and the detailed quantitative pooled data will increase clinicians' awareness, improve diagnosis, and promptly start treatment. This analysis also highlights the necessity of future collaboratives studies, given the heterogeneous nature of PIMS-TS.