Population-based study of multisystem inflammatory syndrome associated with COVID-19 found that 36% of children had persistent symptoms

Aim Our aim was to describe the outcomes of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with COVID-19. Methods This national, population-based, longitudinal, multicentre study used Swedish data that were prospectively collected between 1 December 2020 and 31 May 2021. All patients met the World Health Organization criteria for MIS-C. The outcomes 2 and 8 weeks after diagnosis are presented, and follow-up protocols are suggested. Results We identified 152 cases, and 133 (87%) participated. When followed up 2 weeks after MIS-C was diagnosed, 43% of the 119 patients had abnormal results, including complete blood cell counts, platelet counts, albumin levels, electrocardiograms and echocardiograms. After 8 weeks, 36% of 89 had an abnormal patient history, but clinical findings were uncommon. Echocardiogram results were abnormal in 5% of 67, and the most common complaint was fatigue. Older children and those who received intensive care were more likely to report symptoms and have abnormal cardiac results. Conclusion More than a third (36%) of the patients had persistent symptoms 8 weeks after MIS-C, and 5% had abnormal echocardiograms. Older age and higher levels of initial care appeared to be risk factors. Structured follow-up visits are important after MIS-C.

Automated summary

The aim of this study was to describe the outcomes of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with COVID-19. Findings showed that over a third of patients continued to experience symptoms 8 weeks after MIS-C diagnosis, with 5% having abnormal echocardiograms. Older age and higher levels of initial care were identified as potential risk factors for persistent symptoms and abnormal cardiac results. Structured follow-up visits were deemed important after MIS-C.