Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C): Report of the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of cases in Santiago de Chile during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic

Torres, Juan P.; Izquierdo, Giannina; Acuña, Mirta; Pavez, Daniela; Reyes, Felipe; Fritis, Ana; González, Ricardo; Ribacova, Carolina; Contardo, Verónica; Tapia, Lorena I.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of hospitalized children with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) in Santiago, Chile. METHODS: Observational study, on children with MIS-C (May 1- June 24, 2020), in 3 pediatric hospitals in Santiago. Demographics and epidemiologic data; medical history; laboratory tests; cardiologic evaluation; treatment; and clinical outcome were analyzed. RESULTS: 27 patients (median age 6 (0-14) years) were admitted; 16/27 (59%) required intensive care admission with no deaths. 74% had no-comorbidities, and median days of symptoms before admission was 4 (2-9). Gastrointestinal symptoms were the most frequent, and inflammatory markers were increased at admission. A recent SARS-CoV-2 infection was detected in 82% of cases. The severe group showed significantly lower hemoglobin and albumin, decreased platelet counts, and higher D-dimer during evolution. Echocardiography showed abnormalities (myocardial, pericardial, or coronary) on 12 patients (46%) during hospital stay. Anti-inflammatory treatment (immune globulin and/or corticosteroids) was prescribed in 24 patients. MIS-C appeared in clusters weeks after the peak of SARS-CoV-2 cases, especially in Santiago's most vulnerable areas. CONCLUSIONS: We describe the first series, of 27 children with MIS-C, in a Latin-American countrywith favorable clinical outcomes. Education and alerts are required for clinical teams to establish an early diagnosis and prompt treatment.