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Hosozawa M, Hori M, Hayama-Terada M, Arisa I, Muto Y, Kitamura A, Takayama Y, Iso H. Prevalence and risk factors of post-coronavirus disease 2019 condition among children and adolescents in Japan: A matched case-control study in the general population. Int J Infect Dis 2024; 143:107008. [PMID: 38484930 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine prevalence and risk factors for post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) in a paediatric population. METHODS The study included patients aged 5-17 years with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection between 1 March 2021 and 30 April 2022 and matched non-infected controls from Yao City, Japan. We compared parent-reported symptoms persisting ≥2 months (present at 3 months post-infection for patients) between the groups. COVID-19 vaccination data was obtained from the Vaccination Registry. RESULTS Among 8167 invited individuals, 3141 (1800 cases, mean age: 10.4 years, 46.1% females; 1341 controls, mean age 10.5 years, 47.1% females) participated. Patients had elapsed average 273 (185-605) days from infection, and 1708 (94.9%) experienced mild acute symptoms. Patients had higher odds of having persistent symptoms than did controls (6.3% vs 2.2%, adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.15, 95% confidence interval: 2.08-4.77), with 53.6% of them reporting current disruption due to the symptoms. Older age, low household income, pre-existing allergy, and autonomic nervous system disease were associated with increased risks of developing PCC; two prior vaccination doses reduced these risks (aOR: 0.53, 0.29-0.96). CONCLUSION SARS-CoV-2 infection, including omicron infections heighten persistent symptom risk in the paediatric population, necessitating preventive strategies, notably vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariko Hosozawa
- Institute for Global Health Policy Research, Bureau of International Health Cooperation, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Miyuki Hori
- Institute for Global Health Policy Research, Bureau of International Health Cooperation, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Iba Arisa
- Institute for Global Health Policy Research, Bureau of International Health Cooperation, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Muto
- Institute for Global Health Policy Research, Bureau of International Health Cooperation, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | - Hiroyasu Iso
- Institute for Global Health Policy Research, Bureau of International Health Cooperation, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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2
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Calcaterra V, Zanelli S, Foppiani A, Verduci E, Benatti B, Bollina R, Bombaci F, Brucato A, Cammarata S, Calabrò E, Cirnigliaro G, Della Torre S, Dell’osso B, Moltrasio C, Marzano AV, Nostro C, Romagnuolo M, Trotta L, Savasi V, Smiroldo V, Zuccotti G. Long COVID in Children, Adults, and Vulnerable Populations: A Comprehensive Overview for an Integrated Approach. Diseases 2024; 12:95. [PMID: 38785750 PMCID: PMC11120262 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12050095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Long COVID affects both children and adults, including subjects who experienced severe, mild, or even asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. We have provided a comprehensive overview of the incidence, clinical characteristics, risk factors, and outcomes of persistent COVID-19 symptoms in both children and adults, encompassing vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women and oncological patients. Our objective is to emphasize the critical significance of adopting an integrated approach for the early detection and appropriate management of long COVID. The incidence and severity of long COVID symptoms can have a significant impact on the quality of life of patients and the course of disease in the case of pre-existing pathologies. Particularly, in fragile and vulnerable patients, the presence of PASC is related to significantly worse survival, independent from pre-existing vulnerabilities and treatment. It is important try to achieve an early recognition and management. Various mechanisms are implicated, resulting in a wide range of clinical presentations. Understanding the specific mechanisms and risk factors involved in long COVID is crucial for tailoring effective interventions and support strategies. Management approaches involve comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments and treatment of symptoms and comorbidities, such as autonomic dysfunction, as well as multidisciplinary rehabilitation. The overall course of long COVID is one of gradual improvement, with recovery observed in the majority, though not all, of patients. As the research on long-COVID continues to evolve, ongoing studies are likely to shed more light on the intricate relationship between chronic diseases, such as oncological status, cardiovascular diseases, psychiatric disorders, and the persistent effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This information could guide healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers in developing targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Calcaterra
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, Università degli Sudi di Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy; (S.Z.); (E.V.)
| | - Sara Zanelli
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy; (S.Z.); (E.V.)
| | - Andrea Foppiani
- International Center for the Assessment of Nutritional Status and the Development of Dietary Intervention Strategies (ICANS-DIS), Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy;
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, Clinical Nutrition Unit, 20145 Milano, Italy
| | - Elvira Verduci
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy; (S.Z.); (E.V.)
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Beatrice Benatti
- “Aldo Ravelli” Center for Nanotechnology and Neurostimulation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy; (B.B.); (B.D.)
- Department of Psychiatry, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milano, 20154 Milano, Italy; (G.C.); (C.N.)
| | - Roberto Bollina
- Department of Medical Oncology, ASST Rhodense, 20024 Milano, Italy; (R.B.); (S.D.T.); (V.S.)
| | - Francesco Bombaci
- Department of Radiology, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20154 Milano, Italy;
| | - Antonio Brucato
- Department of Internal Medicine, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, 20154 Milano, Italy; (A.B.); (E.C.); (L.T.)
| | - Selene Cammarata
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, Luigi Sacco Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, 20154 Milano, Italy; (S.C.); (V.S.)
| | - Elisa Calabrò
- Department of Internal Medicine, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, 20154 Milano, Italy; (A.B.); (E.C.); (L.T.)
| | - Giovanna Cirnigliaro
- Department of Psychiatry, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milano, 20154 Milano, Italy; (G.C.); (C.N.)
| | - Silvia Della Torre
- Department of Medical Oncology, ASST Rhodense, 20024 Milano, Italy; (R.B.); (S.D.T.); (V.S.)
| | - Bernardo Dell’osso
- “Aldo Ravelli” Center for Nanotechnology and Neurostimulation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy; (B.B.); (B.D.)
- Department of Psychiatry, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milano, 20154 Milano, Italy; (G.C.); (C.N.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Centro per lo Studio dei Meccanismi Molecolari alla Base delle Patologie Neuro-Psico-Geriatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Chiara Moltrasio
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy; (C.M.); (A.V.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Angelo Valerio Marzano
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy; (C.M.); (A.V.M.); (M.R.)
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Chiara Nostro
- Department of Psychiatry, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milano, 20154 Milano, Italy; (G.C.); (C.N.)
| | - Maurizio Romagnuolo
- Dermatology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy; (C.M.); (A.V.M.); (M.R.)
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Lucia Trotta
- Department of Internal Medicine, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, 20154 Milano, Italy; (A.B.); (E.C.); (L.T.)
| | - Valeria Savasi
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, Luigi Sacco Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, 20154 Milano, Italy; (S.C.); (V.S.)
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Valeria Smiroldo
- Department of Medical Oncology, ASST Rhodense, 20024 Milano, Italy; (R.B.); (S.D.T.); (V.S.)
| | - Gianvincenzo Zuccotti
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy; (S.Z.); (E.V.)
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
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3
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Delogu AB, Aliberti C, Birritella L, De Rosa G, De Rose C, Morello R, Cambise N, Marino AG, Belmusto A, Tinti L, Di Renzo A, Lanza GA, Buonsenso D. Autonomic cardiac function in children and adolescents with long COVID: a case-controlled study. Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:2375-2382. [PMID: 38446228 PMCID: PMC11035407 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-024-05503-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Although the mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of long COVID condition are still debated, there is growing evidence that autonomic dysfunction may play a role in the long-term complications or persisting symptoms observed in a significant proportion of patients after SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, studies focused on autonomic dysfunction have primarily been conducted in adults, while autonomic function has not yet been investigated in pediatric subjects. In this study, for the first time, we assessed whether pediatric patients with long COVID present abnormalities in autonomic cardiac function. Fifty-six long COVID pediatric patients (mean age 10.3 ± 3.8 y) and 27 age-, sex-, and body surface area-matched healthy controls (mean age 10.4 ± 4.5y) underwent a standard 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG) and 24-h ECG Holter monitoring. Autonomic cardiac function was assessed by time-domain and frequency-domain heart rate variability parameters. A comprehensive echocardiographic study was also obtained by two-dimensional echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging. Data analysis showed that pediatric patients with long COVID had significant changes in HRV variables compared to healthy controls: significantly lower r-MSSD (root mean square of successive RR interval differences, 47.4 ± 16.9 versus 60.4 ± 29.1, p = 0.02), significant higher values VLF (very low frequency, 2077.8 ± 1023.3 versus 494.3 ± 1015.5 ms, p = 0.000), LF (low frequency, 1340.3 ± 635.6 versus 354.6 ± 816.8 ms, p = 0.000), and HF (high frequency, 895.7 ± 575.8 versus 278.9 ± 616.7 ms, p = 0.000). No significant differences were observed between the two groups both in systolic and diastolic parameters by echocardiography. Conclusion: These findings suggest that pediatric patients with long COVID have an imbalance of cardiac autonomic function toward a relative predominance of parasympathetic tone, as already reported in adult patients with long COVID. Further studies are needed to clarify the clinical significance of this autonomic dysfunction and demonstrate its role as a pathophysiological mechanism of long COVID, paving the way for effective therapeutic and preventive strategies. What is Known: • Long Covid in children has been described globally, but studies have mostly focused on collecting the temporal evolution of persisting symptoms. What is New: • Cardiac autonomic imbalance toward a relative predominance of parasympathetic tone is a mechanism underlying Long Covid in children, as also described in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- A B Delogu
- Institute of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - C Aliberti
- Institute of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - L Birritella
- Institute of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - G De Rosa
- Institute of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - C De Rose
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Institute of Pediatrics, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - R Morello
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Institute of Pediatrics, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - N Cambise
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - A G Marino
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - A Belmusto
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - L Tinti
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - A Di Renzo
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - G A Lanza
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - D Buonsenso
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
- Institute of Pediatrics, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
- Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Agostino Gemelli 8, Rome, 00168, Italy.
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Collins E, Philippe E, Gravel CA, Hawken S, Langlois MA, Little J. Serological markers and long COVID-A rapid systematic review. Eur J Clin Invest 2024; 54:e14149. [PMID: 38083997 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long COVID is highly heterogeneous, often debilitating, and may last for years after infection. The aetiology of long COVID remains uncertain. Examination of potential serological markers of long COVID, accounting for clinical covariates, may yield emergent pathophysiological insights. METHODS In adherence to PRISMA guidelines, we carried out a rapid review of the literature. We searched Medline and Embase for primary observational studies that compared IgG response in individuals who experienced COVID-19 symptoms persisting ≥12 weeks post-infection with those who did not. We examined relationships between serological markers and long COVID status and investigated sources of inter-study variability, such as severity of acute illness, long COVID symptoms assessed and target antigen(s). RESULTS Of 8018 unique records, we identified 29 as being eligible for inclusion in synthesis. Definitions of long COVID varied. In studies that reported anti-nucleocapsid (N) IgG (n = 10 studies; n = 989 participants in aggregate), full or partial anti-Spike IgG (i.e. the whole trimer, S1 or S2 subgroups, or receptor binding domain, n = 19 studies; n = 2606 participants), or neutralizing response (n = 7 studies; n = 1123 participants), we did not find strong evidence to support any difference in serological markers between groups with and without persisting symptoms. However, most studies did not account for severity or level of care required during acute illness, and other potential confounders. CONCLUSIONS Pooling of studies would enable more robust exploration of clinical and serological predictors among diverse populations. However, substantial inter-study variations hamper comparability. Standardized reporting practices would improve the quality, consistency and comprehension of study findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Collins
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Philippe
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher A Gravel
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Steven Hawken
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marc-André Langlois
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Coronavirus Variants Rapid Response Network (CoVaRR-Net), Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation (CI3), University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julian Little
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Coronavirus Variants Rapid Response Network (CoVaRR-Net), Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- The Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit (KSAU), University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Paintsil E. Editorial: Emerging and reemerging global pediatric infectious diseases amidst vanishing pediatric infectious diseases workforce. Curr Opin Pediatr 2024; 36:133-135. [PMID: 38446143 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0000000000001328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Elijah Paintsil
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Buonsenso D, Camporesi A, Morello R, De Rose C, Fracasso M, Valentini P. Paediatric long COVID studies should focus on clinical evaluations that examine the impact on daily life not just self-reported symptoms. Acta Paediatr 2024; 113:778-780. [PMID: 38287466 DOI: 10.1111/apa.17129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Center for Global Health Research Studies, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Anna Camporesi
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, 'Vittore Buzzi' Children's Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosa Morello
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina De Rose
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Fracasso
- Medicine and Surgery, Universityà Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Piero Valentini
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Toepfner N, Brinkmann F, Augustin S, Stojanov S, Behrends U. Long COVID in pediatrics-epidemiology, diagnosis, and management. Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:1543-1553. [PMID: 38279014 PMCID: PMC11001657 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05360-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
This review summarizes current knowledge on post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) and post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) in children and adolescents. A literature review was performed to synthesize information from clinical studies, expert opinions, and guidelines. PASC also termed Long COVID - at any age comprise a plethora of unspecific symptoms present later than 4 weeks after confirmed or probable infection with severe respiratory syndrome corona virus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), without another medical explanation. PCC in children and adolescents was defined by the WHO as PASC occurring within 3 months of acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), lasting at least 2 months, and limiting daily activities. Pediatric PASC mostly manifest after mild courses of COVID-19 and in the majority of cases remit after few months. However, symptoms can last for more than 1 year and may result in significant disability. Frequent symptoms include fatigue, exertion intolerance, and anxiety. Some patients present with postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS), and a small number of cases fulfill the clinical criteria of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). To date, no diagnostic marker has been established, and differential diagnostics remains challenging. Therapeutic approaches include appropriate self-management as well as the palliation of symptoms by non-pharmaceutical and pharmaceutical strategies. Conclusion: PASC in pediatrics present with heterogenous severity and duration. A stepped, interdisciplinary, and individualized approach is essential for appropriate clinical management. Current health care structures have to be adapted, and research was extended to meet the medical and psychosocial needs of young people with PASC or similar conditions. What is Known: • Post-acute sequelae of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) (PASC) - also termed Long COVID - in children and adolescents can lead to activity limitation and reduced quality of life. • PASC belongs to a large group of similar post-acute infection syndromes (PAIS). Specific biomarkers and causal treatment options are not yet available. What is New: • In February 2023, a case definition for post COVID-19 condition (PCC) in children and adolescents was provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), indicating PASC with duration of at least 2 months and limitation of daily activities. PCC can present as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). • Interdisciplinary collaborations are necessary and have been established worldwide to offer harmonized, multimodal approaches to diagnosis and management of PASC/PCC in children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Toepfner
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Folke Brinkmann
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergology, University Children's Hospital, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Luebeck, Germany
| | - Silvia Augustin
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People, Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, Technical University Munich and Munich Municipal Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Silvia Stojanov
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People, Child and Adolescent Psychosomatics, Children's Hospital, Technical University Munich and Munich Municipal Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Uta Behrends
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People, Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, Technical University Munich and Munich Municipal Hospital, Munich, Germany
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8
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Li CJ, Yu HR, Kou KC, Chou WJ, Tsai CS, Wang LJ. Post COVID-19 condition and behavioral manifestations in Taiwanese children. Pediatr Int 2024; 66:e15724. [PMID: 38156534 DOI: 10.1111/ped.15724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated the prevalence of post COVID-19 condition (PCC) in Taiwanese children, explored common symptoms and behavioral manifestations in children with PCC, and examined potential associations with parental stress and family functioning. METHODS A total of 116 children who had contracted COVID-19 and their parents participated. At 1 month after the confirmed COVID-19 infection (baseline), the parents were asked to complete a questionnaire about the post COVID-19 symptoms, the child behavior checklist (CBCL) based on the child's situation, also the impact event scale of COVID-19 (IES-C) and family APGAR based on the parents' own situation. Three months after the confirmed COVID-19 infection, parents were again asked to complete the same questionnaires as they did at baseline. RESULTS Results showed that 44.8% of the children met the criteria for PCC, with the most common symptoms being sputum/nasal congestion, tiredness and decreased concentration. Children without PCC exhibited a significant decrease in CBCL scores during the 2-month follow-up, while no such decrease was observed in children with PCC. However, no significant correlations were found between the number of post COVID-19 symptoms, behavioral manifestations, parental stress levels, and family functioning. CONCLUSIONS Children with PCC have a less favorable trajectory in improving their behavioral manifestations. Additionally, in the post-pandemic era, post COVID-19 symptoms in children are not necessarily correlated with parental stress and family functioning. Further research is needed to better understand the long-term implications of PCC in children and its impact on their mental well-being, as well as their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Jung Li
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Ren Yu
- Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Kaohsiung Medical Center; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Che Kou
- Division of Pediatric Infection, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Jiun Chou
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Shu Tsai
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Jen Wang
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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9
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Wang L, Davis PB, Berger N, Kaelber DC, Volkow N, Xu R. Association of COVID-19 with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in children aged 0-5 years in the USA in 2022: a multicentre retrospective cohort study. Fam Med Community Health 2023; 11:e002456. [PMID: 37832975 PMCID: PMC10582888 DOI: 10.1136/fmch-2023-002456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether COVID-19 infection was associated with increased risk for incident respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections and associated diseases among young children that might have contributed to the 2022 surge of severe paediatric RSV cases in the USA. DESIGN This is a retrospective population-based cohort study. Five outcomes were examined, including overall RSV infection, positive lab test-confirmed RSV infection, clinically diagnosed RSV diseases, RSV-associated bronchiolitis and unspecified bronchiolitis. Risk ratio (RR) and 95% CI of the outcomes that occurred during the 2022 and 2021 RSV seasons were calculated by comparing propensity-score matched cohorts. SETTING Nationwide multicentre database of electronic health records (EHRs) of 61.4 million patients in the USA including 1.7 million children 0-5 years of age, which was accessed through TriNetX Analytics that provides web-based and secure access to patient EHR data from hospitals, primary care and specialty treatment providers. PARTICIPANTS The study population consisted of 228 940 children of 0-5 years with no prior RSV infection who had medical encounters in October 2022. Findings were replicated in a separate study population of 370 919 children of 0-5 years with no prior RSV infection who had medical encounters in July 2021-August 2021 during a non-overlapping time period. RESULTS For the 2022 study population (average age 2.4 years, 46.8% girls, 61% white, 16% black), the risk for incident RSV infection during October 2022-December 2022 was 6.40% for children with prior COVID-19 infection, higher than 4.30% for the matched children without COVID-19 (RR 1.40, 95% CI 1.27 to 1.55); and among children aged 0-1 year, the overall risk was 7.90% for those with prior COVID-19 infection, higher than 5.64% for matched children without (RR 1.40, 95% CI 1.21 to 1.62). For the 2021 study population (average age 2.2 years, 46% girls, 57% white, 20% black), the risk for incident RSV infection during July 2021-December 2021 was 4.85% for children with prior COVID-19 infection, higher than 3.68% for the matched children without COVID-19 (RR 1.32, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.56); and 7.30% for children aged 0-1 year with prior COVID-19 infection, higher than 4.98% for matched children without (RR 1.47, 95% CI 1.18 to 1.82). CONCLUSION COVID-19 was associated with a significantly increased risk for RSV infections among children aged 0-5 years in 2022. Similar findings were replicated for a study population of children aged 0-5 years in 2021. Our findings suggest that COVID-19 contributed to the 2022 surge of RSV cases in young children through the large buildup of COVID-19-infected children and the potential long-term adverse effects of COVID-19 on the immune and respiratory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Wang
- Center for Science, Health, and Society, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Pamela B Davis
- Center for Community Health Integration, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Nathan Berger
- Center for Science, Health, and Society, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - David C Kaelber
- The Center for Clinical Informatics Research and Education and the Departments ofInternal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Nora Volkow
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Rong Xu
- Center for AI in Drug Discovery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Wang L, Berger N, Davis PB, Kaelber DC, Volkow N, Xu R. Time trend and seasonality in medically attended respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in US children aged 0-5 years, January 2010-January 2023. Fam Med Community Health 2023; 11:e002453. [PMID: 37844966 PMCID: PMC10582996 DOI: 10.1136/fmch-2023-002453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The long-term time trend and seasonality variations of first-time medically attended respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections among young children are unknown. We aim to examine the time trend of medically attended first-time RSV infections among young children in the USA from January 2010 through January 2023. DESIGN This is a population-based cohort study using electronic health records (EHRs). Monthly incidence rate of medically attended first-time RSV infection (cases per 10 000 000 person-days). A time-series regression model was used to model and predict time trends and seasonality. SETTING Multicenter and nationwide TriNetX Network in the USA. PARTICIPANTS The study population comprised children aged 0-5 years who had medical visits during the period of January 2010 to January 2023. RESULTS The data included 29 013 937 medical visits for children aged 0-5 years (46.5% girls and 53.5% boys) from January 2010 through January 2023. From 2010 through 2019, the monthly incidence rate of first-time medically attended RSV infection in children aged 0-5 years followed a consistent seasonal pattern. Seasonal patterns of medically attended RSV infections were significantly disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, the seasonal variation disappeared with a peak incidence rate of 20 cases per 1 000 000 person-days, a decrease of 97.4% from the expected peak rate (rate ratio or RR: 0.026, 95% CI 0.017 to 0.040). In 2021, the seasonality returned but started 4 months earlier, lasted for 9 months, and peaked in August at a rate of 753 cases per 1 000 000 person-days, a decrease of 9.6% from the expected peak rate (RR: 0.90, 95% CI 0.82 to 0.99). In 2022, the seasonal pattern is similar to prepandemic years but reached a historically high rate of 2182 cases per 10 000 000 person-days in November, an increase of 143% from the expected peak rate (RR: 2.43, 95% CI 2.25 to 2.63). The time trend and seasonality of the EHR-based medically attended RSV infections are consistent with those of RSV-associated hospitalisations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) survey-based surveillance system. CONCLUSION The findings show the disrupted seasonality during the COVID-19 pandemic and a historically high surge of paediatric RSV cases that required medical attention in 2022. Our study demonstrates the potential of EHRs as a cost-effective alternative for real-time pathogen and syndromic surveillance of unexpected disease patterns including RSV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Wang
- Center for Science, Health, and Society, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Nathan Berger
- Center for Science, Health, and Society, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Pamela B Davis
- Center for Community Health Integration, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - David C Kaelber
- The Center for Clinical Informatics Research and Education and the Departments ofInternal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Nora Volkow
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Rong Xu
- Center for Artificial Intelligence in Drug Discovery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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11
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Buonsenso D, Camporesi A, Morello R, De Rose C, Fracasso M, Chieffo DPR, Valentini P. Social Stigma in Children with Long COVID. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1518. [PMID: 37761479 PMCID: PMC10529184 DOI: 10.3390/children10091518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that adults with Long COVID suffer from different sets of stigmata related to their condition. In children with Long COVID, this aspect has never been investigated. This study aims to investigate if children with Long COVID also experience stigma. METHODS Children with a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection evaluated at 3 month follow-ups in a pediatric post COVID unit were asked to fill in an online Long COVID Stigma Scale survey before they were assessed by a pediatrician. Doctors were unaware of children's responses when they performed a diagnosis of Long COVID or full recovery from previous infection, according to the World Health Organization definition of pediatric Long COVID. Responses to the Stigma scale were then compared in the two cohorts of children. RESULTS 224 patients responded to the questionnaire; 40 patients were diagnosed with Long COVID. Children with Long COVID significantly more frequently felt embarrassed about having Long COVID (p 0.035), felt embarrassed about having physical limitations (p < 0.001), felt they were valued less due to Long COVID (p 0.003), felt they were different from other peers due to Long COVID (p 0.033), felt significantly more frequently that people behaved differently towards them because they might be lying since the diagnosis of Long COVID (p 0.006), that they were less respected by others due to Long COVID (p 0.017), that other people thought that Long COVID is not a real disease (p 0.007), that other people thought that developing Long COVID is a sign of weakness (p 0.008), and that other people might judge them negatively due to their diagnosis of Long COVID (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Children with Long COVID, similar to adults, are suffering from stigmata due to their condition,. These data may have implication and should be used by the public, policy makers, and healthcare professionals regarding pediatric Long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (R.M.); (C.D.R.); (P.V.)
- Center for Global Health Research Studies, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Roma, Italy
| | - Anna Camporesi
- Pediatric Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, “Vittore Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy;
| | - Rosa Morello
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (R.M.); (C.D.R.); (P.V.)
| | - Cristina De Rose
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (R.M.); (C.D.R.); (P.V.)
| | - Matteo Fracasso
- Medicine and Surgery, Universityà Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Roma, Italy;
| | - Daniela Pia Rosaria Chieffo
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Woman, Children and Public Health, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Piero Valentini
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (R.M.); (C.D.R.); (P.V.)
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Boufidou F, Medić S, Lampropoulou V, Siafakas N, Tsakris A, Anastassopoulou C. SARS-CoV-2 Reinfections and Long COVID in the Post-Omicron Phase of the Pandemic. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12962. [PMID: 37629143 PMCID: PMC10454552 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We are reviewing the current state of knowledge on the virological and immunological correlates of long COVID, focusing on recent evidence for the possible association between the increasing number of SARS-CoV-2 reinfections and the parallel pandemic of long COVID. The severity of reinfections largely depends on the severity of the initial episode; in turn, this is determined both by a combination of genetic factors, particularly related to the innate immune response, and by the pathogenicity of the specific variant, especially its ability to infect and induce syncytia formation at the lower respiratory tract. The cumulative risk of long COVID as well as of various cardiac, pulmonary, or neurological complications increases proportionally to the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections, primarily in the elderly. Therefore, the number of long COVID cases is expected to remain high in the future. Reinfections apparently increase the likelihood of long COVID, but less so if they are mild or asymptomatic as in children and adolescents. Strategies to prevent SARS-CoV-2 reinfections are urgently needed, primarily among older adults who have a higher burden of comorbidities. Follow-up studies using an established case definition and precise diagnostic criteria of long COVID in people with or without reinfection may further elucidate the contribution of SARS-CoV-2 reinfections to the long COVID burden. Although accumulating evidence supports vaccination, both before and after the SARS-CoV-2 infection, as a preventive strategy to reduce the risk of long COVID, more robust comparative observational studies, including randomized trials, are needed to provide conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of vaccination in preventing or mitigating long COVID in all age groups. Thankfully, answers not only on the prevention, but also on treatment options and rates of recovery from long COVID are gradually starting to emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotini Boufidou
- Neurochemistry and Biological Markers Unit, 1st Department of Neurology, Eginition Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
| | - Snežana Medić
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Institute of Public Health of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Vicky Lampropoulou
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (V.L.); (A.T.)
| | - Nikolaos Siafakas
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Attikon General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Athanasios Tsakris
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (V.L.); (A.T.)
| | - Cleo Anastassopoulou
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (V.L.); (A.T.)
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Martino L, Morello R, De Rose C, Buonsenso D. Persistent respiratory symptoms associated with post-Covid condition (Long Covid) in children: a systematic review and analysis of current gaps and future perspectives. Expert Rev Respir Med 2023; 17:837-852. [PMID: 37844017 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2023.2271836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is increasing evidence that also children can develop Long Covid. However, there are no specific reviews providing a clear description of reported respiratory symptoms and potential diagnostics. AREAS COVERED We performed on PubMed a systematic search of studies conducted on children aged less than 18 years with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection complaining about persistent respiratory symptoms; the aim of our review is to characterize the incidence, pattern and duration of respiratory symptoms after the acute infection in pediatric population. EXPERT OPINION Children can develop persisting respiratory symptoms, as documented by several follow-up studies both including or not control groups of non-infected children. However, the methodological variabilities of the analyzed studies does not allow to provide firm conclusions about the rate, type and best diagnostics for children with persistent respiratory symptoms. Future studies should investigate on larger pediatric cohorts the role of noninvasive diagnostics and new biomarkers as well as investigating therapeutic options both during acute infection or when Long Covid has been diagnosed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Martino
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Morello
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina De Rose
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Centro di Salute Globale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia
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Sansone F, Pellegrino GM, Caronni A, Bonazza F, Vegni E, Lué A, Bocci T, Pipolo C, Giusti G, Di Filippo P, Di Pillo S, Chiarelli F, Sferrazza Papa GF, Attanasi M. Long COVID in Children: A Multidisciplinary Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:1990. [PMID: 37370884 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13121990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Long COVID syndrome has emerged as a long-lasting consequence of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection in adults. In addition, children may be affected by Long COVID, with potential clinical issues in different fields, including problems in school performance and daily activities. Yet, the pathophysiologic bases of Long COVID in children are largely unknown, and it is difficult to predict who will develop the syndrome. In this multidisciplinary clinical review, we summarise the latest scientific data regarding Long COVID and its impact on children. Special attention is given to diagnostic tests, in order to help the physicians to find potential disease markers and quantify impairment. Specifically, we assess the respiratory, upper airways, cardiac, neurologic and motor and psychological aspects. Finally, we also propose a multidisciplinary clinical approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Antonio Caronni
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Ospedale San Luca, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Bonazza
- Department of Health Sciences, Clinical Psychology, University of Milan, Via di Rudinì 8, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Vegni
- Department of Health Sciences, Clinical Psychology, University of Milan, Via di Rudinì 8, 20142 Milan, Italy
- Unit of Clinical Psychology, San Paolo Hospital, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Via di Rudinì 8, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Lué
- Service of Digestive Diseases, University Clinic Hospital Lozano Blesa, IIS Aragón, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Tommaso Bocci
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20146 Milan, Italy
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Santi Paolo e Carlo", University of Milan, 20146 Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Pipolo
- Department of Health Sciences, Otorhinolaryngology Department, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, University of Milan, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Giuliano Giusti
- Paediatric Cardiology Unit, Niguarda Hospital, 20162 Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Di Filippo
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Sabrina Di Pillo
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Francesco Chiarelli
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Marina Attanasi
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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Cocciolillo F, Chieffo DPR, Giordano A, Arcangeli V, Lazzareschi I, Morello R, Zampino G, Valentini P, Buonsenso D. Case report: Post-COVID new-onset neurocognitive decline with bilateral mesial-temporal hypometabolism in two previously healthy sisters. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1165072. [PMID: 37303754 PMCID: PMC10251436 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1165072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Long coronavirus disease (COVID) is increasingly recognized in adults and children; however, it is still poorly characterized from a clinical and diagnostic perspective, particularly in the younger populations. Case presentation We described the story of two sisters-with high social and academic performance before their severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection-who reported severe neurocognitive problems, initially classified as psychologic pandemic distress and eventually found to have significant brain hypometabolism. Conclusions We provided a detailed clinical presentation of neurocognitive symptoms in two sisters with long COVID associated with brain hypometabolism documented in both sisters. We believe that the evidence of objective findings in these children further supports the hypothesis that organic events cause persisting symptoms in a cohort of children after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Such findings highlight the importance of discovering diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Cocciolillo
- Dipartimento di Diagnostica per Immagini, Radioterapia Oncologica ed Ematologia, UOC di Medicina Nucleare, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Pia Rosaria Chieffo
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Woman, Children and Public Health, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Giordano
- Dipartimento di Diagnostica per Immagini, Radioterapia Oncologica ed Ematologia, UOC di Medicina Nucleare, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Sezione di Medicina Nucleare, Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Arcangeli
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lazzareschi
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Morello
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zampino
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Piero Valentini
- Sezione di Medicina Nucleare, Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Centro di Salute Globale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
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Morello R, Mariani F, Mastrantoni L, De Rose C, Zampino G, Munblit D, Sigfrid L, Valentini P, Buonsenso D. Risk factors for post-COVID-19 condition (Long Covid) in children: a prospective cohort study. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 59:101961. [PMID: 37073325 PMCID: PMC10101848 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.101961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Adults and children can develop post-Covid-19 condition (PCC) (also referred to as Long Covid). However, existing evidence is scarce, partly due to a lack of a standardised case definition, short follow up duration, and heterogenous study designs, resulting in wide variation of reported outcomes. The primary aim of this study was to characterise risk factors for PCC and longitudinal rates of recovery in a cohort of children and young people using a standardised protocol. Methods We performed a prospective "disease-based" cohort study between 01/02/2020 to 31/10/2022 including children aged 0-18 years old, with a previous diagnosis of Covid-19. Children with microbiologically confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, were invited for an in-clinic follow-up assessment at a paediatric post-covid clinic in Rome, Italy, at serial intervals (3-, 6-, 12- and 18-months post-onset). PCC was defined as persistence of otherwise unexplained symptoms for at least three months after initial infection. The statistical association between categorical variables was obtained by Chi-squared tests or Fisher's exact tests. Multivariable logistic regressions are presented using odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Survival analysis was conducted using the Kaplan-Meier method. Findings 1243 children were included, median age: 7.5 (4-10.3) years old; 575 (46.3%) were females. Of these, 23% (294/1243) were diagnosed with PCC at three months post-onset. Among the study population, 143 patients remained symptomatic at six months, 38 at 12 months, and 15 at 18 months follow up evaluation. The following risk factors were associated with PCC: >10 years of age (OR 1.23; 95% CI 1.18-1.28), comorbidities (OR 1.68; 95% CI 1.14-2.50), and hospitalisation during the acute phase (OR 4.80; 95%CI 1.91-12.1). Using multivariable logistic regression, compared to the Omicron variant, all other variants were significantly associated with PCC at 3 and 6 months. At least one dose of vaccine was associated with a reduced, but not statistically significant risk of developing PCC. Interpretation In our study, acute-phase hospitalisation, pre-existing comorbidity, being infected with pre-Omicron variants and older age were associated with a higher risk of developing PCC. Most children recovered over time, but one-in-twenty of those with PCC at three months reported persistent symptoms 18 months post-Sars-CoV-2 infection. Omicron infection was associated with shorter recovery times. We did not find a strong protective effect of vaccination on PCC development. Although our cohort cannot be translated to all Italian children with PCC as more nationwide studies are needed, our findings highlight the need of new strategies to prevent and treat pediatric PCC are needed. Funding This study has been funded by Pfizer non-competitive grant, granted to DB (# 65925795).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Morello
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Mariani
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Mastrantoni
- Medical Oncology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina De Rose
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zampino
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniel Munblit
- Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Child's Health, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
- Care for Long Term Conditions Division, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Sigfrid
- ISARIC Global Support Centre, GloPID-R Research and Policy Team, Pandemic Sciences Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Piero Valentini
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Centro di Salute Globale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
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Pizzuto DA, Buonsenso D, Morello R, De Rose C, Valentini P, Fragano A, Baldi F, Di Giuda D. Lung perfusion assessment in children with long-COVID: A pilot study. Pediatr Pulmonol 2023. [PMID: 37097045 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.26432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing evidence that chronic endotheliopathy can play a role in patients with Post-Covid Condition (PCC, or Long Covid) by affecting peripheral vascularization. This pilot study aimed at assessing lung perfusion in children with Long-COVID with 99m Tc-MAA SPECT/CT. MATERIALS AND METHODS lung 99m Tc-MAA SPECT/CT was performed in children with Long-COVID and a pathological cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). Intravenous injections were performed on patients in the supine position immediately before the planar scan according to the EANM guidelines for lung scintigraphy in children, followed by lung SPECT/CT acquisition. Reconstructed studies were visually analyzed. RESULTS Clinical and biochemical data were collected during acute infection and follow-up in 14 children (6 females, mean age: 12.6 years) fulfilling Long-COVID diagnostic criteria and complaining of chronic fatigue and postexertional malaise after mild efforts, documented by CPET. Imaging results were compared with clinical scenarios during acute infection and follow-up. Six out of 14 (42.8%) children showed perfusion defects on 99m Tc-MAA SPECT/CT scan, without morphological alterations on coregistered CT. CONCLUSIONS This pilot investigation confirmed previous data suggesting that a small subgroup of children can develop lung perfusion defects after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. Larger cohort studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results, providing also a better understanding of which children may deserve this test and how to manage those with lung perfusion defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Antonio Pizzuto
- Department of Radiology, Radiotherapy and Hematology, Nuclear Medicine Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- GlobalHealth Research Institute, Istituto di Igiene, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Morello
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina De Rose
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Piero Valentini
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - A Fragano
- Department of Radiology, Radiotherapy and Hematology, Nuclear Medicine Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiana Baldi
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Di Giuda
- Department of Radiology, Radiotherapy and Hematology, Nuclear Medicine Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- University Department of Radiological Sciences and Hematology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Uniiversità Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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18
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Mariani F, Morello R, Traini DO, La Rocca A, De Rose C, Valentini P, Buonsenso D. Risk Factors for Persistent Anosmia and Dysgeusia in Children with SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Retrospective Study. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10030597. [PMID: 36980155 PMCID: PMC10047825 DOI: 10.3390/children10030597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Olfactory and gustative dysfunctions are two of the most common post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children, which can have a negative impact on the routines of children and families. As several children have had COVID-19 since the Omicron variant, it is important to investigate if this increase in infections is reflected in higher olfactory/taste disfunctions. The primary aim of this study was to characterize the presence of olfactory/gustative problems in a cohort of children, its evolution, and its association with risk factors such as COVID-19 variant, hospitalization, presence of olfactory/gustative dysfunction during the acute phase, and vaccination. METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of children with microbiologically confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection evaluated in person at a referral pediatric post-COVID-19 clinic in Rome, Italy. We included children younger than 19 years old, evaluated from the beginning of the pandemic up to October 2022. At specific timepoints, we investigated the presence of olfactory/taste disfunctions and evaluated them according to the SARS-CoV-2 variants circulating at the time of infection. RESULTS A total of 1250 children (650 females; 52.0%) with a mean age of 6.77 (±4.12) years were included in the study. At 3, 6, 12, and 18 months, 12 (9.6%), 7 (5.6%), 2 (1.6%), and 1 (0.8%) of the children reported anosmia and dysgeusia post-COVID-19 infection, respectively. The presence of anosmia and dysgeusia during the acute phase of infection and being infected with a pre-Omicron variant were found to be significant risk factors for persistent olfactory and gustatory dysfunction during all follow-up periods. CONCLUSIONS anosmia and dysgeusia symptoms tended to decrease gradually over time, but not all children recovered quickly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Mariani
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Morello
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Anna La Rocca
- Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina De Rose
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Piero Valentini
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Centro di Salute Globale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
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