MIS-C, caused in children by the Covid-19 infection that affects the whole world, is a kind of syndrome that generally occurs in children after infection and is treatable. When treated under healthy conditions, it does not cause permanent damage.
Research has shown that it can damage the heart and other tissues. This syndrome can occur on average within 4-6 weeks after a coronavirus infection. Symptoms of this condition, the cause of which is not clear, include fever, abdominal pain, sore throat, nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, rashes on the arms and legs, dryness and cracking of the mouth and lips.
What are the Symptoms of MIS-C Disease?
Even though the disease is rare, since it is an important condition, the symptoms should be well known and families should help the experts. In individuals with a history of previous (generally 2-4 weeks ago) or recent Covid-19 infection or interaction with a Covid-19 infected person, if some of the symptoms seen in MIS-C disease, especially strong fever, are present, this disease should be suspected and a health institution should be consulted immediately. Symptoms of MIS-C disease are as follows;
- Presence of a strong fever above 38 degrees within 1 day
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Pain in the abdomen
- Bowel problems
- Occurrence of rashes on the body
- Bloodshot eyes
- Dry, cracked lips
- Headache
- Breathing problems
- Joint pain
- Peeling skin on hands and feet
While childrendiagnosed with MIS-C generally have positive antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, PCR results can be negative. Another worrying fact is that 52 percent of children who develop MIS-C do not have a specific underlying condition. This suggests that this disease is unpredictable.
Who is at risk for MIS-C?
According to studies, this disease has been detected in approximately 50 percent of children who are overweight (obese). Obesity and asthma are frequently seen in children with MIS-C disease. While upper respiratory symptoms are observed in children with Covid-19, in this disease, high fever, vomiting and abdominal pain may occur 100% of the time.
The abdominal pain is so intense that in some cases, the possibility of appendicitis or pancreatitis in sick children is emphasized. Heart problems can also occur in children with this syndrome. Recently, there are data that these cases have decreased up to 3 years of age.
When Should Parents Suspect MIS-C Syndrome? H2
Symptoms include prolonged fever, red eyes, skin rash, redness of the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, intense abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea. In such cases, you should seek medical attention immediately.
It is not accurate to give clear information about the incidence of this disease, but according to studies, 6 to 20 percent of pediatric Covid-19 cases requiring hospitalization consist of children with MIS-C.
How is MIS-C Disease Treated?
MIS-C syndrome is a treatable disease that does not cause permanent damage if treated. In untreated individuals, various health problems can be seen, first of all coronary vessels. These sick people should be followed up by departments such as pediatric cardiology and pediatric infectious diseases, especially in the diagnosis and treatment process and in the processes after treatment.