Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children

Abstract

The novel SARS-CoV-2 virus has primarily infected adults since the onset of COVID-19 in December 2019, with a lower proportion of illnesses happening in children. However, as the pandemic has worsened, there has been a discernible increase in pediatric cases of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). Cytokine storms and endothelial damage are two immune-mediated mechanisms that follow SARS-CoV-2 infection and are primarily responsible for the pathophysiology of MIS-C. This paper provides a detailed description of the MIS-C criteria established by the CDC, WHO, and RCPCH, which emphasize multi-organ involvement, protracted fever, and severe inflammatory reactions. They also give an overview of current treatment approaches, including anticoagulant medication, monoclonal antibodies in severe cases, and immunotherapy using intravenous immunoglobulin and corticosteroids. In addition, the review discusses the epidemiological trends and risk factors associated with MIS-C, including age distribution, genetic predisposition, and prior exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Diagnostic challenges due to overlapping clinical features with other inflammatory conditions, such as Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome, are also addressed. Furthermore, the role of early screening, multidisciplinary management, and long-term follow-up in preventing complications such as cardiac dysfunction and coronary artery abnormalities is emphasized. The importance of ongoing research to better understand disease mechanisms and optimize therapeutic strategies is also highlighted.