PIMS-TS Complicating SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Report of 10 Pediatric Cases

SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19, is a betacoronavirus identified by the WHO as the cause of the 2020 pandemic. Unlike most respiratory virus, children exhibit lower susceptibility to COVID-19 and generally develop milder disease courses, with reduced mortality rates. Recently, there have been reports of clustered cases characterized by shock states associated with elevated cardiac biomarkers and vasoplegia, necessitating treatment with inotropes, vasopressors, and fluid resuscitation. This clinical presentation has been linked to the emergence of Pediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome Temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS), also known as Kawasaki-like syndrome. This study is a retrospective analysis of 10 pediatric patients diagnosed with PIMS-TS secondary to COVID-19 infection, who were admitted to Mohammed VI International University Hospital in Casablanca, Morocco, from January 2021 to October 2023. The cohort's ages ranged from 2 to 13 years, with a mean age of 6 years, and demonstrated a male predominance (sex ratio 9M:1F). Clinical manifestations included prolonged fever, gastrointestinal disturbances, rash, conjunctivitis, and cheilitis. Laboratory findings revealed elevated levels of CRP, PCT, and ferritin, indicative of an atypical Kawasaki syndrome. These patients responded to intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, with adjunctive corticosteroids administered as needed. All patients experienced favorable outcomes, with resolution of systemic involvement and normalization of inflammatory markers, and no relapses or fatalities were recorded. The risk factors for PIMS-TS complicating COVID-19 infection remain unclear. However, there are noted parallels between PIMS-TS and Kawasaki syndrome diagnostic criteria, suggesting possible pathophysiological overlap. In conclusion, a novel multisystem inflammatory syndrome associated with COVID-19 infection, resembling Kawasaki syndrome, has been identified in pediatric patients. This emerging syndrome enhances our understanding of the complex pathophysiology associated with COVID-19 and underscores the need for continued research into its etiology and optimal management strategies.