1
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DiMura PM, Wagner VL, Robertson TW, Wu M, Conroy MB, Josberger R. Identifying Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Among Children in New York State Medicaid Managed Care. J Community Health 2024; 49:869-878. [PMID: 38796597 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-024-01363-4] [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] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Persons who contract COVID-19 are at risk of developing post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). The objective of this study was to describe the incidence of PASC in a pediatric Medicaid population. Using a retrospective cohort of children enrolled in New York State Medicaid Managed Care we compared incident diagnoses between children with a positive laboratory test for SARS-CoV-2 in 2021 to children without a positive test in 2021 and children with a viral respiratory diagnosis in 2019. Logistic regression models estimated adjusted odds ratios using the Cohen's d statistic to assess the strength of associations. Most unadjusted incidence of clinical outcomes were less than 1% for all cohorts. Relative to the 2021 comparison cohort, significant increases among SARS-CoV-2 cases were observed in sequela of infectious disease conditions, general signs and symptoms, and pericarditis and pericardial disease and for the 2019 comparison, sequela of infectious disease conditions and suicidal ideation. However, associations were mostly determined to be weak or marginal. In this low socioeconomic status pediatric population, incidence of new clinical sequelae was low with mostly weak or marginal increases associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Though the incidence was low, some outcomes may be severe. Observed associations may have been impacted by pandemic behavior modification including social distancing policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip M DiMura
- Center for Applied Research and Evaluation, Office of Health Service Quality and Analytics, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, 12237, USA.
| | - Victoria L Wagner
- Center for Applied Research and Evaluation, Office of Health Service Quality and Analytics, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, 12237, USA
| | - Tom W Robertson
- Center for Applied Research and Evaluation, Office of Health Service Quality and Analytics, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, 12237, USA
| | - Meng Wu
- Center for Applied Research and Evaluation, Office of Health Service Quality and Analytics, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, 12237, USA
| | - Mary Beth Conroy
- Center for Applied Research and Evaluation, Office of Health Service Quality and Analytics, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, 12237, USA
| | - Raina Josberger
- Center for Applied Research and Evaluation, Office of Health Service Quality and Analytics, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, 12237, USA
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2
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Noij L, Terheggen-Lagro S, Muselaers E, Whittaker E, Gosling J, Brackel C, Oostrom K, Alsem M. A Multidisciplinary Approach: Management and Rehabilitation of Children With Pediatric Post-COVID-19 Condition. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2024; 43:880-884. [PMID: 38808972 PMCID: PMC11319073 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000004408] [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] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Post-COVID-19 condition in children is a still largely unknown syndrome with a diverse pattern of symptoms, which can have a major impact on daily life. Currently, there are no evidence-based proven treatments, and the focus is on symptom management and recovery of daily functioning. A multidisciplinary, tailored approach is recommended, with attention to energy management and activity building, where the main goal should be a return to baseline levels of cognitive, physical and social activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieke Noij
- From the Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers
| | - Suzanne Terheggen-Lagro
- From the Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers
| | - Eefje Muselaers
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elizabeth Whittaker
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
- Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Caroline Brackel
- From the Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers
- Department of Pediatrics, Tergooi MC, Hilversum, The Netherlands
| | - Kim Oostrom
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam
| | - Mattijs Alsem
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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3
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Tsampalieros A, Zemek R, Barrowman N, Langlois MA, Arnold C, McGahern C, Plint AC, Pham-Huy A, Bhatt M. Hybrid immunity after BNT162b2 Covid-19 vaccine administration in children aged 5 to 11 years. Vaccine 2024; 42:125981. [PMID: 38789373 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.05.029] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The immune response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination is stronger among adults with prior infection (hybrid immunity). It is important to understand if children demonstrate a similar response to better inform vaccination strategies. Our study investigated the humoral response after BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine doses in SARS-CoV-2 naïve and recovered children (5-11 years). METHODS A multi-institutional, longitudinal, prospective cohort study was conducted. Children were enrolled in a case-ascertained antibody surveillance study in Ottawa, Ontario from September/2020-March/2021; at least one household member was severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive on RT-PCR. In November 2021, BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine was authorized for children aged 5-11 in Canada. Children enrolled in the surveillance study intending to receive two vaccine doses were invited to participate in this study from November 2021-April 2022. Main exposure was prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, defined by positive RT-PCR or SARS-CoV-2 anti-N IgG antibody presence. Primary outcome was spike IgG antibody levels measured following the first vaccine dose (2-3 weeks) and second vaccine dose (3-4 weeks). RESULTS Of the 153 eligible children, 75 participants (median age 8.9 IQR (7.4, 10.2) years; 38 (50.7 %) female; 59 (78.7 %) Caucasian) had complete follow-up. Fifty-four (72 %) children had prior SARS-COV-2 infection. Spike IgG antibody levels are significantly higher in SARS-CoV-2 recovered participants after receiving the first dose (p < 0.001) and the second (p = 0.01) compared to infection naïve children. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE SARS-CoV-2 recovered children (5-11 years) demonstrated higher antibody levels following first BNT162b2 vaccine dose compared with naïve children. Most reached antibody saturation two to three weeks after the first dose; a second dose didn't change the saturation level. A single vaccine dose in SARS-CoV-2 recovered children may be equivalent or superior to a 2-dose primary series in naïve children. Further research is needed on the durability and quality of a single vaccine dose in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Tsampalieros
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Roger Zemek
- Department of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital of Eastern Omntario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Nick Barrowman
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Marc-André Langlois
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Corey Arnold
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Candice McGahern
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Amy C Plint
- Department of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital of Eastern Omntario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Anne Pham-Huy
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Maala Bhatt
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.
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4
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Rothensteiner M, Leeb F, Götzinger F, Tebruegge M, Zacharasiewicz A. Long COVID in Children and Adolescents: A Critical Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:972. [PMID: 39201907 PMCID: PMC11352730 DOI: 10.3390/children11080972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024]
Abstract
(1) Background: Data on persisting symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection in children and adolescents are conflicting. Due to the absence of a clear pathophysiological correlate and a definitive diagnostic test, the diagnosis of Long COVID currently rests on consensus definitions only. This review aims to summarise the evidence regarding Long COVID in children and adolescents, incorporating the latest studies on this topic. (2) Methods: We designed a comprehensive search strategy to capture all relevant publications using Medline via the PubMed interface, with the initial literature search conducted in April 2023. To be included, publications had to present original data and include >50 participants with Long COVID symptoms aged between 0 and18 years. (3) Results: A total of 51 studies met the inclusion criteria, with most studies originating from Europe (n = 34; 66.7%), followed by the Americas (n = 8; 15.7%) and Asia (n = 7; 13.7%). Various study designs were employed, including retrospective, cross-sectional, prospective, or ambispective approaches. Study sizes varied significantly, with 18/51 studies having fewer than 500 participants. Many studies had methodological limitations: 23/51 (45.1%) studies did not include a control group without prior COVID-19 infection. Additionally, a considerable number of papers (33/51; 64.7%) did not include a clear definition of Long COVID. Other limitations included the lack of PCR- or serology-based confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the study group. Across different studies, there was high variability in the reported prevalence of Long COVID symptoms, ranging from 0.3% to 66.5%, with the majority of studies included in this review reporting prevalences of approximately 10-30%. Notably, the two studies with the highest prevalences also reported very high prevalences of Long COVID symptoms in the control group. There was a relatively consistent trend for Long COVID prevalence to decline substantially over time. The prevalence of Long COVID appeared to differ across different paediatric age groups, with teenagers being more commonly affected than younger children. Furthermore, data suggest that children and adolescents are less commonly affected by Long COVID compared to adults. In children and adolescents, Long COVID is associated with a very broad range of symptoms and signs affecting almost every organ system, with the respiratory, cardiovascular, and neuropsychiatric systems being most commonly affected. (4) Conclusions: The heterogeneity and limitations of published studies on Long COVID in children and adolescents complicate the interpretation of the existing data. Future studies should be rigorously designed to address unanswered questions regarding this complex disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rothensteiner
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
| | - Franziska Leeb
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Wien, Austria
| | - Florian Götzinger
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marc Tebruegge
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Infection, Immunity & Inflammation, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WCN1 1EH, UK
| | - Angela Zacharasiewicz
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
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5
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Yin Y, Yang G, Wang N, Zeng M, Jiang H, Yuan S, Wu J, Zhang J, Cui J, Zhou G, Yang X, Zhang Y, Sun Z, Yuan J, Lin J, Chen J, Tang M, Chen J. Exploring the prevalence and chest CT predictors of Long COVID in children: a comprehensive study from Shanghai and Linyi. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1420196. [PMID: 39170602 PMCID: PMC11335557 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1420196] [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: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction COVID-19 constitutes a pandemic of significant detriment to human health. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Long COVID following SARS-CoV-2 infection, analyze the potential predictors of chest CT for the development of Long COVID in children. Methods A cohort of children who visited the respiratory outpatient clinics at Shanghai Children's Medical Center or Linyi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital from December 2022 to February 2023 and underwent chest CT scans within 1 week was followed up. Data on clinical characteristics, Long COVID symptoms, and chest CT manifestations were collected and analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression models and decision tree models were employed to identify factors associated with Long COVID. Results A total of 416 children were included in the study. Among 277 children who completed the follow-up, the prevalence of Long COVID was 23.1%. Chronic cough, fatigue, brain fog, and post-exertional malaise were the most commonly reported symptoms. In the decision tree model for Long COVID, the presence of increased vascular markings, the absence of normal CT findings, and younger age were identified as predictors associated with a higher likelihood of developing Long COVID in children. However, no significant correlation was found between chest CT abnormality and the occurrence of Long COVID. Discussion Long COVID in children presents a complex challenge with a significant prevalence rate of 23.1%. Chest CT scans of children post-SARS-CoV-2 infection, identified as abnormal with increased vascular markings, indicate a higher risk of developing Long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Linyi Branch of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Linyi, Shandong, China
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Children’s Medical Center Pediatric Medical Complex (Pudong), Shanghai, China
- Pediatric AI Clinical Application and Research Center, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligence Pediatrics (SERCIP), Shanghai, China
- Child Health Advocacy Institute, China Hospital Development Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guijun Yang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Linyi Branch of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Mei Zeng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hejun Jiang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuhua Yuan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinhong Wu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Juan Cui
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Linyi Branch of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Guifang Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Linyi Branch of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Linyi Branch of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Yunqin Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Linyi Branch of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Zhichao Sun
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Linyi Branch of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Jiajun Yuan
- Pediatric AI Clinical Application and Research Center, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligence Pediatrics (SERCIP), Shanghai, China
- Medical Department of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jilei Lin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Pediatric AI Clinical Application and Research Center, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligence Pediatrics (SERCIP), Shanghai, China
- Child Health Advocacy Institute, China Hospital Development Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiande Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingyu Tang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Linyi Branch of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Linyi, Shandong, China
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Petrea Cliveți CL, Ciortea DA, Miulescu M, Candussi IL, Chirila SI, Verga Răuță GI, Bergheș SE, Râșcu MC, Berbece SI. A New Case of Paediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Onset after SARS-CoV-2 and Epstein-Barr Infection-A Case Report and Literature Review. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:8642-8657. [PMID: 39194726 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46080509] [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: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Viral infections caused by exposure to viruses such as Epstein-Barr, cytomegalovirus, or Parvovirus B19 have always been considered predisposing environmental factors for the onset of autoimmune diseases. More recently, autoimmune mechanisms such as molecular mimicry, T-cell activation, transient immunosuppression and inflammation have also been observed in cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Several newly diagnosed autoimmune disorders have been reported post-COVID-19, such as COVID-19-associated multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), type 1 diabetes mellitus, systemic lupus erythematosus, or rheumatoid arthritis. In this article, we present a new case of paediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with haematological (macrophage activation syndrome), renal (stage 2), cutaneous (urticarial vasculitis) and digestive involvement, onset three and a half months post-COVID-19. In the dynamics, de novo infection generated by Epstein-Barr exposure was associated. The diagnosis was confirmed based on EULAR/ACR 2019 criteria. The aim of the article is to present a possible correlation between SARS-CoV-2 and Epstein-Barr as extrinsic factors in triggering or activating paediatric systemic lupus erythematosus. Keywords: paediatric systemic lupus erythematosus; post-COVID-19; Epstein-Barr; SARS- CoV-2; case report; paediatric patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Loredana Petrea Cliveți
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University "Dunarea de Jos" of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
- Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children "Sf Ioan", 800487 Galati, Romania
| | - Diana-Andreea Ciortea
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University "Dunarea de Jos" of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
- Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children "Maria Sklodowska Curie", 041451 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Magdalena Miulescu
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University "Dunarea de Jos" of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
- Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children "Sf Ioan", 800487 Galati, Romania
| | - Iuliana-Laura Candussi
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University "Dunarea de Jos" of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
- Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children "Sf Ioan", 800487 Galati, Romania
| | | | - Gabriela Isabela Verga Răuță
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University "Dunarea de Jos" of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
- Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children "Sf Ioan", 800487 Galati, Romania
| | | | - Mihai Ciprian Râșcu
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University "Dunarea de Jos" of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Sorin Ion Berbece
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University "Dunarea de Jos" of Galati, 800008 Galati, Romania
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7
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Buonsenso D, Tantisira KG. Long COVID and SARS-CoV-2 persistence: new answers, more questions. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 24:796-798. [PMID: 38663424 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(24)00216-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy.
| | - Kelan G Tantisira
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Respiratory Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Respiratory Medicine, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
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8
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Shukla N, Shamim U, Agarwal P, Pandey R, Narayan J. From bench to bedside: potential of translational research in COVID-19 and beyond. Brief Funct Genomics 2024; 23:349-362. [PMID: 37986554 DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elad051] [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] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been around for more than 3 years now. However, due to constant viral evolution, novel variants are emerging, leaving old treatment protocols redundant. As treatment options dwindle, infection rates continue to rise and seasonal infection surges become progressively common across the world, rapid solutions are required. With genomic and proteomic methods generating enormous amounts of data to expand our understanding of SARS-CoV-2 biology, there is an urgent requirement for the development of novel therapeutic methods that can allow translational research to flourish. In this review, we highlight the current state of COVID-19 in the world and the effects of post-infection sequelae. We present the contribution of translational research in COVID-19, with various current and novel therapeutic approaches, including antivirals, monoclonal antibodies and vaccines, as well as alternate treatment methods such as immunomodulators, currently being studied and reiterate the importance of translational research in the development of various strategies to contain COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nityendra Shukla
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Uzma Shamim
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Preeti Agarwal
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Rajesh Pandey
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Jitendra Narayan
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
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9
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Noij LCE, Blankestijn JM, Lap CR, van Houten MA, Biesbroek G, der Zee AHMV, Abdel-Aziz MI, van Goudoever JB, Alsem MW, Brackel CLH, Oostrom KJ, Hashimoto S, Terheggen-Lagro SWJ. Clinical-based phenotypes in children with pediatric post-COVID-19 condition. World J Pediatr 2024; 20:682-691. [PMID: 38664324 PMCID: PMC11269322 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-024-00805-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric post coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) condition (PPCC) is a heterogeneous syndrome, which can significantly affect the daily lives of children. This study aimed to identify clinically meaningful phenotypes in children with PPCC, to better characterize and treat this condition. METHODS Participants were children with physician-diagnosed PPCC, referred to the academic hospital Amsterdam UMC in the Netherlands between November 2021 and March 2023. Demographic factors and information on post-COVID symptoms, comorbidities, and impact on daily life were collected. Clinical clusters were identified using an unsupervised and unbiased approach for mixed data types. RESULTS Analysis of 111 patients (aged 3-18 years) revealed three distinct clusters within PPCC. Cluster 1 (n = 62, median age = 15 years) predominantly consisted of girls (74.2%). These patients suffered relatively more from exercise intolerance, dyspnea, and smell disorders. Cluster 2 (n = 33, median age = 13 years) contained patients with an even gender distribution (51.5% girls). They suffered from relatively more sleep problems, memory loss, gastrointestinal symptoms, and arthralgia. Cluster 3 (n = 16, median age = 11 years) had a higher proportion of boys (75.0%), suffered relatively more from fever, had significantly fewer symptoms (median of 5 symptoms compared to 8 and 10 for clusters 1 and 2 respectively), and experienced a lower impact on daily life. CONCLUSIONS This study identified three distinct clinical PPCC phenotypes, with variations in sex, age, symptom patterns, and impact on daily life. These findings highlight the need for further research to understand the potentially diverse underlying mechanisms contributing to post-COVID symptoms in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieke C E Noij
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Room G2-222, Meibergdreef 9, 1105AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Coen R Lap
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Room G2-222, Meibergdreef 9, 1105AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Spaarne Gasthuis, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands
| | | | - Giske Biesbroek
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Room G2-222, Meibergdreef 9, 1105AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Spaarne Gasthuis, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Johannes B van Goudoever
- Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mattijs W Alsem
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline L H Brackel
- Department of Paediatric Pulmonology, Department of Paediatrics, Tergooi MC, Hilversum, The Netherlands
| | - Kim J Oostrom
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Simone Hashimoto
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Room G2-222, Meibergdreef 9, 1105AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne W J Terheggen-Lagro
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Room G2-222, Meibergdreef 9, 1105AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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10
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Raheem MA, Rahim MA, Gul I, Reyad-Ul-Ferdous M, Zhang CY, Yu D, Pandey V, Du K, Wang R, Han S, Han Y, Qin P. COVID-19: Post infection implications in different age groups, mechanism, diagnosis, effective prevention, treatment, and recommendations. Life Sci 2024:122861. [PMID: 38925222 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122861] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a highly contagious pathogen that predominantly caused the COVID-19 pandemic. The persistent effects of COVID-19 are defined as an inflammatory or host response to the virus that begins four weeks after initial infection and persists for an undetermined length of time. Chronic effects are more harmful than acute ones thus, this review explored the long-term effects of the virus on various human organs, including the pulmonary, cardiovascular, and neurological, reproductive, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, endocrine, and lymphoid systems and found that SARS-CoV-2 adversely affects these organs of older adults. Regarding diagnosis, the RT-PCR is a gold standard method of diagnosing COVID-19; however, it requires specialized equipment and personnel for performing assays and a long time for results production. Therefore, to overcome these limitations, artificial intelligence employed in imaging and microfluidics technologies is the most promising in diagnosing COVID-19. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies are the most effective treatment for reducing the persistent impacts of COVID-19 by providing immunity to post-COVID-19 patients by reducing cytokine release syndrome, improving the T cell response, and increasing the circulation of activated natural killer and CD8 T cells in blood and tissues, which ultimately reduces fever, nausea, fatigue, and muscle weakness and pain. Vaccines such as inactivated viral, live attenuated viral, protein subunit, viral vectored, mRNA, DNA, or nanoparticle vaccines significantly reduce the adverse long-term virus effects in post-COVID-19 patients; however, no vaccine was reported to provide lifetime protection against COVID-19; consequently, protective measures such as physical separation, mask use, and hand cleansing are promising strategies. This review provides a comprehensive knowledge of the persistent effects of COVID-19 on people of varying ages, as well as diagnosis, treatment, vaccination, and future preventative measures against the spread of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Akmal Raheem
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; Center of Precision Medicine and Healthcare, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518055, PR China
| | - Muhammad Ajwad Rahim
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Ahnui Agricultural University, Hefei, PR China
| | - Ijaz Gul
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; Center of Precision Medicine and Healthcare, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518055, PR China
| | - Md Reyad-Ul-Ferdous
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; Center of Precision Medicine and Healthcare, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518055, PR China
| | - Can Yang Zhang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; Center of Precision Medicine and Healthcare, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518055, PR China
| | - Dongmei Yu
- School of Mechanical, Electrical & Information Engineering, Shandong University
| | - Vijay Pandey
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; Center of Precision Medicine and Healthcare, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518055, PR China
| | - Ke Du
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Runming Wang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; Center of Precision Medicine and Healthcare, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518055, PR China
| | - Sanyang Han
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; Center of Precision Medicine and Healthcare, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518055, PR China
| | - Yuxing Han
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; Center of Precision Medicine and Healthcare, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518055, PR China
| | - Peiwu Qin
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China; Center of Precision Medicine and Healthcare, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province 518055, PR China.
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11
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Funk A, Florin TA, Kuppermann N, Finkelstein Y, Kazakoff A, Baldovsky M, Tancredi DJ, Breslin K, Bergmann KR, Gardiner M, Pruitt CM, Liu DR, Neuman MI, Wilkinson M, Ambroggio L, Pang XL, Cauchemez S, Malley R, Klassen TP, Lee BE, Payne DC, Mahmud SM, Freedman SB. Household Transmission Dynamics of Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2-Infected Children: A Multinational, Controlled Case-Ascertained Prospective Study. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:1522-1530. [PMID: 38530249 PMCID: PMC11175701 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciae069] [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] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection in children is highly prevalent but its acute and chronic implications have been minimally described. METHODS In this controlled case-ascertained household transmission study, we recruited asymptomatic children <18 years with SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid testing performed at 12 tertiary care pediatric institutions in Canada and the United States. We attempted to recruit all test-positive children and 1 to 3 test-negative, site-matched controls. After 14 days' follow-up we assessed the clinical (ie, symptomatic) and combined (ie, test-positive, or symptomatic) secondary attack rates (SARs) among household contacts. Additionally, post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) was assessed in SARS-CoV-2-positive participating children after 90 days' follow-up. RESULTS A total of 111 test-positive and 256 SARS-CoV-2 test-negative asymptomatic children were enrolled between January 2021 and April 2022. After 14 days, excluding households with co-primary cases, the clinical SAR among household contacts of SARS-CoV-2-positive and -negative index children was 10.6% (19/179; 95% CI: 6.5%-16.1%) and 2.0% (13/663; 95% CI: 1.0%-3.3%), respectively (relative risk = 5.4; 95% CI: 2.7-10.7). In households with a SARS-CoV-2-positive index child, age <5 years, being pre-symptomatic (ie, developed symptoms after test), and testing positive during Omicron and Delta circulation periods (vs earlier) were associated with increased clinical and combined SARs among household contacts. Among 77 asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2-infected children with 90-day follow-up, 6 (7.8%; 95% CI: 2.9%-16.2%) reported PCC. CONCLUSIONS Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2-infected children, especially those <5 years, are important contributors to household transmission, with 1 in 10 exposed household contacts developing symptomatic illness within 14 days. Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2-infected children may develop PCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Funk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Todd A Florin
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nathan Kuppermann
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Yaron Finkelstein
- Divisions of Emergency Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alissa Kazakoff
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Michael Baldovsky
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Daniel J Tancredi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Kristen Breslin
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's National Hospital, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Kelly R Bergmann
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children's Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Michael Gardiner
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, California, USA
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Christopher M Pruitt
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Deborah R Liu
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck USC School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mark I Neuman
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew Wilkinson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas at Austin, Dell Medical School, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Lilliam Ambroggio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Section of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Xiao-Li Pang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Simon Cauchemez
- Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases Unit, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 2000, Paris, France
| | - Richard Malley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Terry P Klassen
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Bonita E Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Daniel C Payne
- National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Salaheddin M Mahmud
- Dept of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Stephen B Freedman
- Section of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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12
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Almeria M, Cejudo JC, Deus J, Krupinski J. Neurocognitive and Neuropsychiatric Sequelae in Long COVID-19 Infection. Brain Sci 2024; 14:604. [PMID: 38928604 PMCID: PMC11202095 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14060604] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: To characterize the cognitive profile of long COVID-19 subjects and its possible association with clinical symptoms, emotional disturbance, biomarkers, and disease severity. Methods: We performed a single-center cross-sectional cohort study. Subjects between 20 and 60 years old with confirmed COVID-19 infection were included. The assessment was performed 6 months following hospital or ambulatory discharge. Excluded were those with prior neurocognitive impairment and severe neurological/neuropsychiatric disorders. Demographic and laboratory data were extracted from medical records. Results: Altogether, 108 participants were included, 64 were male (59.25%), and the mean age was 49.10 years. The patients were classified into four groups: non-hospitalized (NH, n = 10), hospitalized without Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or oxygen therapy (HOSPI, n = 21), hospitalized without ICU but with oxygen therapy (OXY, n = 56), and ICU (ICU, n = 21) patients. In total, 38 (35.18%) reported Subjective Cognitive Complaints (SCC). No differences were found considering illness severity between groups. Females had more persistent clinical symptoms and SCC than males. Persistent dyspnea and headache were associated with higher scores in anxiety and depression. Persistent fatigue, anxiety, and depression were associated with worse overall cognition. Conclusions: No cognitive impairment was found regarding the severity of post-COVID-19 infection. SCC was not associated with a worse cognitive performance, but with higher anxiety and depression. Persistent clinical symptoms were frequent independent of illness severity. Fatigue, anxiety, and depression were linked to poorer cognitive function. Tests for attention, processing speed, and executive function were the most sensitive in detecting cognitive changes in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Almeria
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari MútuaTerrassa, 08221 Terrassa, Spain;
| | - Juan Carlos Cejudo
- Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Unit, Hospital Sagrat Cor, Hermanas Hospitalarias, 08760 Martorell, Spain
| | - Joan Deus
- Clinical and Health Department, Psychology Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- MRI Research Unit, Department of Radiology, Hospital del Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jerzy Krupinski
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari MútuaTerrassa, 08221 Terrassa, Spain;
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Life Sciences John Dalton Building, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M15 6BH, UK
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13
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Hamlin RE, Blish CA. Challenges and opportunities in long COVID research. Immunity 2024; 57:1195-1214. [PMID: 38865966 PMCID: PMC11210969 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2024.05.010] [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] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Long COVID (LC) is a condition in which patients do not fully recover from the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection but rather have persistent or new symptoms for months to years following the infection. Ongoing research efforts are investigating the pathophysiologic mechanisms of LC and exploring preventative and therapeutic treatment approaches for patients. As a burgeoning area of investigation, LC research can be structured to be more inclusive, innovative, and effective. In this perspective, we highlight opportunities for patient engagement and diverse research expertise, as well as the challenges of developing definitions and reproducible studies. Our intention is to provide a foundation for collaboration and progress in understanding the biomarkers and mechanisms driving LC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Catherine A Blish
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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14
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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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15
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Luedke JC, Vargas G, Jashar DT, Morrow A, Malone LA, Ng R. [Formula: see text] Cognitive disengagement syndrome in pediatric patients with long COVID: associations with mood, anxiety, and functional impairment. Child Neuropsychol 2024; 30:652-672. [PMID: 37667487 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2023.2252967] [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: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Children with long COVID often report symptoms that overlap with cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS, previously sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT)), a set of behaviors distinct from attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) including excessive daydreaming, mental fogginess, and slowed behavior and thinking. Those with long COVID also frequently report low mood and anxiety, which are linked to CDS. The relationships between cognitive difficulties, mood, and functional impairment have yet to be explored in pediatric long COVID. Specifically, it is unclear how much cognitive difficulties (CDS, inattention) contribute to functional impairment, when accounting for mood/anxiety symptoms in this population. Retrospective parent-reported data was collected from 34 patients with long COVID (22 females, Mage = 14.06 years, SD = 2.85, range 7-19) referred for neuropsychological consultation through a multidisciplinary Post-COVID-19 clinic. Compared to community and clinically referred samples, on average, long COVID patients showed elevated CDS symptoms, including Sluggish/sleepy (e.g., fatigue) and Low Initiation subscales (e.g., difficulty performing goal directed behaviors). Low Initiation, mood, anxiety, and inattention were associated with functional impairment. In multiple hierarchical regression models, after controlling for mood and anxiety, Low Initiation and inattention were no longer predictive of functional impairment. Instead, anxiety remained the sole predictor of functional impairment. Our results demonstrate that children with long COVID have high levels of CDS symptoms. The association between cognitive difficulties and functional impairment dissipated with the inclusion of mood and anxiety, suggesting behavioral health interventions targeting anxiety may help improve daily functioning and quality of life in pediatric long COVID patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C Luedke
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Gray Vargas
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Amanda Morrow
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura A Malone
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rowena Ng
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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16
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Fracella M, Mancino E, Nenna R, Virgillito C, Frasca F, D'Auria A, Sorrentino L, Petrarca L, La Regina D, Matera L, Di Mattia G, Caputo B, Antonelli G, Pierangeli A, Viscidi RP, Midulla F, Scagnolari C. Age-related transcript changes in type I interferon signaling in children and adolescents with long COVID. Eur J Immunol 2024; 54:e2350682. [PMID: 38522030 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202350682] [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] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 typically causes mild symptoms in children, but evidence suggests that persistent immunopathological changes may lead to long COVID (LC). To explore the interplay between LC and innate immunity, we assessed the type I interferon (IFN-I) response in children and adolescents with LC symptoms (LC; n = 28). This was compared with age-matched SARS-CoV-2 recovered participants without LC symptoms (MC; n = 28) and healthy controls (HC; n = 18). We measured the mRNA expression of IFN-I (IFN-α/β/ε/ω), IFN-I receptor (IFNAR1/2), and ISGs (ISG15, ISG56, MxA, IFI27, BST2, LY6E, OAS1, OAS2, OAS3, and MDA5) in PBMCs collected 3-6 months after COVID-19. LC adolescents (12-17 years) had higher transcript levels of IFN-β, IFN-ε, and IFN-ω than HC, whereas LC children (6-11 years) had lower levels than HC. In adolescents, increased levels of IFN-α, IFN-β, and IFN-ω mRNAs were found in the LC group compared with MC, while lower levels were observed in LC children than MC. Adolescents with neurological symptoms had higher IFN-α/β mRNA levels than MC. LC and MC participants showed decreased expression of ISGs and IFNAR1, but increased expression of IFNAR2, than HC. Our results show age-related changes in the expression of transcripts involved in the IFN-I signaling pathway in children and adolescents with LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Fracella
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Virology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrica Mancino
- Department of Pediatrics and Infantile Neuropsychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaella Nenna
- Department of Pediatrics and Infantile Neuropsychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Virgillito
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Frasca
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Virology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra D'Auria
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Virology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Leonardo Sorrentino
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Virology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Petrarca
- Department of Pediatrics and Infantile Neuropsychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico La Regina
- Department of Pediatrics and Infantile Neuropsychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Matera
- Department of Pediatrics and Infantile Neuropsychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Greta Di Mattia
- Department of Pediatrics and Infantile Neuropsychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Beniamino Caputo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Antonelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Virology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pierangeli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Virology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Raphael P Viscidi
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Fabio Midulla
- Department of Pediatrics and Infantile Neuropsychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carolina Scagnolari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Virology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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17
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Marcotullio C, Attanasi M, Porreca A, Di Filippo P, Matricardi S, Venanzi A, Schiavo M, Paone A, Rossi N, Chiarelli F, Prezioso G. Neuropsychological Symptoms and Quality of Life during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Children: A Survey in a Pediatric Population in the Abruzzo Region, Italy. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:532. [PMID: 38790527 PMCID: PMC11119843 DOI: 10.3390/children11050532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has significantly affected the pediatric population. Long-term sequelae (Long COVID-19) may particularly involve the central nervous system, with possible effects on psychological well-being and quality of life (QoL), aspects that were already influenced by the restrictive measures and general social impact of the pandemic. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey that aims at investigating the neuropsychological effects and the QoL impairment of SARS-CoV-2 on a cohort of children and adolescents in the Abruzzo region (Italy). A questionnaire was submitted to caregivers with the help of the PEDIATOTEM platform. A control group of healthy subjects was also included to distinguish between the effects of infection from the general influence of the pandemic. RESULTS A total of 569 subjects responded: 396 COVID-19 patients (99 of whom had Long COVID-19) and 111 controls. After the pandemic, when compared with the COVID-19 group, the controls reported significantly increased appetite, sleeping habits, and time spent remotely with friends and a reduction in physical activity and time spent in person with friends. A significant higher rate of controls asked for psychological/medical support for emotional problems. On the other hand, the Long COVID-19 group showed more fatigue and emotional instability with respect to non-Long-COVID-19 subjects. No differences in QoL results (EuroQOL) were found between the COVID-19 patients and controls, while the Long-COVID-19 subgroup showed significantly higher rates of pain/discomfort and mood instability, as confirmed by the analysis of variation of responses from the pre-COVID-19 to the post-COVID-19 period. CONCLUSIONS Among COVID-19 patients, neuropsychological and QoL impairment was more evident in the Long COVID-19 subgroup, although emotional and relational issues were also reported by uninfected patients, with a growing request for specialist support as a possible consequence of social restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Marcotullio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Marina Attanasi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Annamaria Porreca
- Laboratory of Biostatistics, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Paola Di Filippo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Sara Matricardi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Annamaria Venanzi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Marco Schiavo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Antonio Paone
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Science, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Nadia Rossi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesco Chiarelli
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Giovanni Prezioso
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
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18
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Luedke JC, Vargas G, Jashar DT, Malone LA, Morrow A, Ng R. Neuropsychological functioning of pediatric patients with long COVID. Clin Neuropsychol 2024:1-18. [PMID: 38664068 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2024.2344455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To determine the neurocognitive profile for youth with long COVID presenting with cognitive concerns. Method: This study is a case series of 54 pediatric patients (65% female, Mage = 13.48, SDage = 3.10, 5-19) with long COVID who were referred for neuropsychological testing from a post-COVID-19 multidisciplinary clinic. The outcomes of interest were neuropsychological test scores and parent ratings of mood, attention, and executive functioning. The percentage of patients with neuropsychological test scores below the 9th percentile (below average range) and those with at-risk or clinically significant scores (T-scores > 59) on parent-informant inventories were computed. Results: A portion of children with long COVID showed weaknesses in sustained attention (29%) and divided attention (35%). This portion of patients did not significantly differ when comparing patients with and without pre-existing attention and mood concerns. A high percentage of parents reported at-risk to clinically significant concerns for cognitive regulation (53%), depression (95%), anxiety (85%), and inattention (66%) on standardized questionnaires. Conclusions: The present case series showed that approximately a third of children with long COVID demonstrate objective weaknesses on sustained and divided attention tasks but were largely intact in other domains of neuropsychological functioning. Importantly, children with long COVID had similar difficulties in attention, regardless of pre-existing attention or mood concerns. Parents reported high rates of mood, anxiety, and executive functioning difficulties which likely impact daily functioning. Attention and emotional regulation should be closely monitored and treated as necessary in pediatric patients with long COVID to aid functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C Luedke
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gray Vargas
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Laura A Malone
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amanda Morrow
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rowena Ng
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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19
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Hersh Z, Weisband YL, Bogan A, Leibovich A, Obolski U, Nevo D, Gilad-Bachrach R. Impact of Long-COVID in children: a large cohort study. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2024; 18:48. [PMID: 38622709 PMCID: PMC11020876 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-024-00736-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of long-term Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the pediatric population is still not well understood. This study was designed to estimate the magnitude of COVID-19 long-term morbidity 3-6 months after the date of diagnosis. METHODS A retrospective study of all Clalit Health Services members in Israel aged 1-16 years who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 between April 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021. Controls, who had no previous diagnosis of COVID-19, were one-to-one matched to 65,548 COVID-19-positive children and teens, and were assigned the infection dates of their matches as their index date. Matching included age, sex, socio-economic score, and societal sector. Individuals were excluded from the study if they had severe medical conditions before the diagnosis such as cancer, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and/or abnormal physiological development. Generalized Estimating Equations were used to estimate the associations between COVID-19 and the use of medical services. The analysis focused on the 3-6 months after the infection date. Adjustments were made for demographics and for the use of medical services 6-12 and 3-6 months before the infection date. The latter was necessary because of observed disparities in medical service utilization between the groups before the COVID-19 diagnosis, despite the matching process. RESULTS Statistically significant differences were only found for referrals for mental health services [adjusted relative-risk (RR) 1·51, 95%CI 1·15 - 1·96; adjusted risk-difference (RD) 0·001, 95%CI 0·0006 - 0·002], and medication prescriptions of any kind (RR 1·03, 95%CI 1·01-1·06; RD 0·01 95%CI 0·004 - 0·02). CONCLUSIONS The significant increase in medication prescriptions and mental health service referrals support the hypothesis that COVID-19 is associated with long-lasting morbidities in children and adolescents aged 1-16 years. However, the risk difference in both instances was small, suggesting a minor impact on medical services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziv Hersh
- Clalit Health Services, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yiska Loewenberg Weisband
- Clalit Health Services, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Clalit Research Center, Innovation Division, Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel Bogan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Leadspace, Hod Hasharon, Israel
| | - Adir Leibovich
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Strauss Water Ltd, Or Yehuda, Israel
| | - Uri Obolski
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Porter School of Environmental and Earth Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Daniel Nevo
- Department of Statistics and Operations Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ran Gilad-Bachrach
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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20
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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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21
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Chagas LDS, Serfaty CA. The Influence of Microglia on Neuroplasticity and Long-Term Cognitive Sequelae in Long COVID: Impacts on Brain Development and Beyond. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3819. [PMID: 38612629 PMCID: PMC11011312 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073819] [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] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglial cells, the immune cells of the central nervous system, are key elements regulating brain development and brain health. These cells are fully responsive to stressors, microenvironmental alterations and are actively involved in the construction of neural circuits in children and the ability to undergo full experience-dependent plasticity in adults. Since neuroinflammation is a known key element in the pathogenesis of COVID-19, one might expect the dysregulation of microglial function to severely impact both functional and structural plasticity, leading to the cognitive sequelae that appear in the pathogenesis of Long COVID. Therefore, understanding this complex scenario is mandatory for establishing the possible molecular mechanisms related to these symptoms. In the present review, we will discuss Long COVID and its association with reduced levels of BDNF, altered crosstalk between circulating immune cells and microglia, increased levels of inflammasomes, cytokines and chemokines, as well as the alterations in signaling pathways that impact neural synaptic remodeling and plasticity, such as fractalkines, the complement system, the expression of SIRPα and CD47 molecules and altered matrix remodeling. Together, these complex mechanisms may help us understand consequences of Long COVID for brain development and its association with altered brain plasticity, impacting learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as cognitive decline in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana da Silva Chagas
- Program of Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Biology, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24210-201, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil;
- National Institute of Science and Technology on Neuroimmunomodulation—INCT-NIM, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Research Network on Neuroinflammation, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudio Alberto Serfaty
- Program of Neuroscience, Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Biology, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24210-201, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil;
- National Institute of Science and Technology on Neuroimmunomodulation—INCT-NIM, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Research Network on Neuroinflammation, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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22
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Gheorghita R, Soldanescu I, Lobiuc A, Caliman Sturdza OA, Filip R, Constantinescu – Bercu A, Dimian M, Mangul S, Covasa M. The knowns and unknowns of long COVID-19: from mechanisms to therapeutical approaches. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1344086. [PMID: 38500880 PMCID: PMC10944866 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1344086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has been defined as the greatest global health and socioeconomic crisis of modern times. While most people recover after being infected with the virus, a significant proportion of them continue to experience health issues weeks, months and even years after acute infection with SARS-CoV-2. This persistence of clinical symptoms in infected individuals for at least three months after the onset of the disease or the emergence of new symptoms lasting more than two months, without any other explanation and alternative diagnosis have been named long COVID, long-haul COVID, post-COVID-19 conditions, chronic COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). Long COVID has been characterized as a constellation of symptoms and disorders that vary widely in their manifestations. Further, the mechanisms underlying long COVID are not fully understood, which hamper efficient treatment options. This review describes predictors and the most common symptoms related to long COVID's effects on the central and peripheral nervous system and other organs and tissues. Furthermore, the transcriptional markers, molecular signaling pathways and risk factors for long COVID, such as sex, age, pre-existing condition, hospitalization during acute phase of COVID-19, vaccination, and lifestyle are presented. Finally, recommendations for patient rehabilitation and disease management, as well as alternative therapeutical approaches to long COVID sequelae are discussed. Understanding the complexity of this disease, its symptoms across multiple organ systems and overlapping pathologies and its possible mechanisms are paramount in developing diagnostic tools and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Gheorghita
- Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
| | - Iuliana Soldanescu
- Integrated Center for Research, Development and Innovation for Advanced Materials, Nanotechnologies, Manufacturing and Control Distributed Systems (MANSiD), University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
| | - Andrei Lobiuc
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
| | - Olga Adriana Caliman Sturdza
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Suceava Emergency Clinical County Hospital, Suceava, Romania
| | - Roxana Filip
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Suceava Emergency Clinical County Hospital, Suceava, Romania
| | - Adela Constantinescu – Bercu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, Hemostasis Research Unit, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom
| | - Mihai Dimian
- Integrated Center for Research, Development and Innovation for Advanced Materials, Nanotechnologies, Manufacturing and Control Distributed Systems (MANSiD), University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Department of Computer, Electronics and Automation, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
| | - Serghei Mangul
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, USC Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mihai Covasa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Pomona, CA, United States
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23
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Thors V, Bjornsdottir KL, Love TJ, Haraldsson A. Long COVID in Icelandic Children: A Matched Cohort Study of Nonspecific Symptoms Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2024; 43:226-233. [PMID: 37991394 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000004187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pediatric severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections are usually mild and the mortality rates are low, but concerns have been raised about long-term symptoms that may resemble other postinfectious syndromes. Studies with robust control groups and high response rates have been few. METHODS We obtained identifiers for all 837 Icelandic children diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 by PCR between March 2020 and June 2021 and contacted them by telephone. We asked about 10 physical and mental symptoms being present at least twice weekly for at least 2 months. Participants who reported symptoms were contacted again a year later. For each subject who completed the questionnaire, an age- and sex-matched comparator without SARS-CoV-2 infection was asked to complete the same questionnaire, and the risk difference was calculated. RESULTS Responses from 643 cases and 602 comparators were analyzed. Children who had been infected with SARS-CoV-2 were more likely to report one or more symptoms, except for anxiety/depression and sleep disturbances. Fatigue and loss of concentration were evidently more common in cases among teenagers (risk difference: 15%; 95% CI: 7-22% and 15%; 95% CI: 7-23%, respectively). At the second follow-up, close to a third of Long COVID cases had resolved but some participants had developed new persistent symptoms. CONCLUSION Symptoms of Long COVID in children are common and impact their quality of life. The importance of further unraveling the pathophysiology of acute and long-term symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection in children is vital as well as potential preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valtyr Thors
- From the Children's Hospital Iceland, Landspitali, University Hospital Reykjavik, Iceland
- University of Iceland, Faculty of Medicine, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | - Thorvardur Jon Love
- University of Iceland, Faculty of Medicine, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Landspitali, University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Asgeir Haraldsson
- From the Children's Hospital Iceland, Landspitali, University Hospital Reykjavik, Iceland
- University of Iceland, Faculty of Medicine, Reykjavik, Iceland
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24
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Kulkarni D, Ismail NF, Zhu F, Wang X, del Carmen Morales G, Srivastava A, Allen KE, Spinardi J, Rahman AE, Kyaw MH, Nair H. Epidemiology and clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children and adolescents in the pre-Omicron era: A global systematic review and meta-analysis. J Glob Health 2024; 14:05003. [PMID: 38419461 PMCID: PMC10902805 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.14.05003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Methods We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, CINAHL, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, CQvip, and the World Health Organization (WHO) COVID-19 global literature databases for primary studies recruiting children aged ≤18 years with a diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed either by molecular or antigen tests. We used the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools to appraise the study quality and conducted meta-analyses using the random effects model for all outcomes except for race/ethnicity as risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Results We included 237 studies, each reporting at least one of the study outcomes. Based on data from 117 studies, the pooled SARS-CoV-2 positivity rate was 9.30% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 7.15-11.73). Having a comorbidity was identified as a risk factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection (risk ratio (RR) = 1.33; 95% CI = 1.04-1.71) based on data from 49 studies. Most cases in this review presented with mild disease (n = 50; 52.47% (95% CI = 44.03-60.84)). However, 20.70% of paediatric SARS-CoV-2 infections were hospitalised (67 studies), 7.19% required oxygen support (57 studies), 4.26% required intensive care (93 studies), and 2.92% required assisted ventilation (63 studies). The case fatality ratio (n = 119) was 0.87% (95% CI = 0.54-1.28), which included in-hospital and out-of-hospital deaths. Conclusions Our data showed that children were at risk for SARS-CoV-2 infections and severe outcomes in the pre-Omicron era. These findings underscore the need for effective vaccination strategies for the paediatric population to protect against the acute and long-term sequelae of COVID-19. Registration PROSPERO: CRD42022327680.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durga Kulkarni
- Centre for Global Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Nabihah Farhana Ismail
- Centre for Global Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Communicable Disease Control Unit, Public Health Department, Johor State, Malaysia
| | - Fuyu Zhu
- Schol of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Schol of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, China
| | | | | | | | | | - Ahmed Ehsanur Rahman
- Centre for Global Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Bangladesh
| | | | - Harish Nair
- Centre for Global Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Schol of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, China
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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25
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Wheibe E, Dalkin BH, Meltzer HC, Russ-Sellers R, Grier JT. The Multisystem effects of Long COVID Syndrome and Potential Benefits of Massage Therapy in Long COVID Care. Int J Ther Massage Bodywork 2024; 17:19-42. [PMID: 38486840 PMCID: PMC10911825 DOI: 10.3822/ijtmb.v17i1.767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background A major complication of infection with Severe Acute Respiratory Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for COVID-19, is the potential for Long COVID Syndrome. While the pathophysiology of Long COVID Syndrome has yet to be described, the disease presentation is characterized by long-term symptoms with debilitating effects on human health. A better understanding of Long COVID symptomology may open up new avenues for patient treatment such as massage therapy. Methods From the PubMed database, cohort studies that examined post-infection COVID sequelae published between January 1st, 2021 and April 30th, 2021 were selected to investigate patient demographics and symptoms. A review of massage therapy literature since 2000 in conjunction with identified Long COVID symptoms was performed. Results This systematic review identified 17 cohort studies across the world that investigated the symptomatology of patients suffering from post-COVID sequelae in multiple organ systems. We identified the pulmonary and nervous systems to be the organ systems most affected with post-COVID sequelae, with PTSD, fatigue, dyspnea, cough, sleep disturbances, loss of smell, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite as the most common symptoms reported by >20% of Long COVID patients. Massage therapy was historically found to provide benefits to patients experiencing similar symptoms to those identified in Long COVID. Conclusions Recognizing the need for new approaches to treatment for Long COVID Syndrome, we identify massage therapy as a potential therapeutic treatment to positively impact the organ systems affected by Long COVID, especially the high-incident symptoms, and improve patient quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Wheibe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, SC
| | - Benjamin H. Dalkin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, SC
| | - Haley C. Meltzer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, SC
| | | | - Jennifer T. Grier
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, SC
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26
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Zhang J, Kuang T, Liu X. Advances in researches on long coronavirus disease in children: a narrative review. Transl Pediatr 2024; 13:318-328. [PMID: 38455739 PMCID: PMC10915432 DOI: 10.21037/tp-23-472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective In the context of the global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), more than 700 million infections and millions of deaths have occurred in countries around the world. Currently, two main sequelae of this disease are considered to occur in children, namely, multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children and long COVID. Among these two, the incidence of long COVID is higher and its impact on the population is more extensive, which is the focus of us. However, due to the lack of relevant studies and the limitations of most studies, the studies on sequelae of COVID-19 infection lag behind those of adults, but they have begun to attract the attention of some clinicians and researchers. We aim to summarize the current knowledge of long COVID in children, helping pediatricians and researchers to better understand this disease and providing guidance on research and clinical treatment of it. Methods We reviewed all the studies on "long COVID", pediatric, children, adolescent, post-COVID syndrome in PubMed published after 2019. Key Content and Findings This review summarizes the latest researches on epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, prevention and treatment of long COVID in children. Based on the existing research data, we summarized and analyzed the characteristics of long COVID in children, discovering the means to decipher the diagnosis of COVID-19 in children and some potential therapeutic treatments. Conclusions We aim to summarize existing research on long COVID in children and help pediatricians and government agencies quickly understand the disease so that it can be used for clinical diagnosis, treatment and prevention in the population. In addition, providing a research basis for further researches on the cellular and even molecular level to explain the occurrence and development of diseases, and has a guiding role for future research direction.
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Fink EL, Alcamo AM, Lovett M, Hartman M, Williams C, Garcia A, Rasmussen L, Pal R, Drury K, MackDiaz E, Ferrazzano PA, Dervan L, Appavu B, Snooks K, Stulce C, Rubin P, Pate B, Toney N, Robertson CL, Wainwright MS, Roa JD, Schober ME, Slomine BS. Post-discharge outcomes of hospitalized children diagnosed with acute SARS-CoV-2 or MIS-C. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1340385. [PMID: 38410766 PMCID: PMC10895015 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1340385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hospitalized children diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2-related conditions are at risk for new or persistent symptoms and functional impairments. Our objective was to analyze post-hospital symptoms, healthcare utilization, and outcomes of children previously hospitalized and diagnosed with acute SARS-CoV-2 infection or Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). Methods Prospective, multicenter electronic survey of parents of children <18 years of age surviving hospitalization from 12 U.S. centers between January 2020 and July 2021. The primary outcome was a parent report of child recovery status at the time of the survey (recovered vs. not recovered). Secondary outcomes included new or persistent symptoms, readmissions, and health-related quality of life. Multivariable backward stepwise logistic regression was performed for the association of patient, disease, laboratory, and treatment variables with recovered status. Results The children [n = 79; 30 (38.0%) female] with acute SARS-CoV-2 (75.7%) or MIS-C (24.3%) had a median age of 6.5 years (interquartile range 2.0-13.0) and 51 (64.6%) had a preexisting condition. Fifty children (63.3%) required critical care. One-third [23/79 (29.1%)] were not recovered at follow-up [43 (31, 54) months post-discharge]. Admission C-reactive protein levels were higher in children not recovered vs. recovered [5.7 (1.3, 25.1) vs. 1.3 (0.4, 6.3) mg/dl, p = 0.02]. At follow-up, 67% overall had new or persistent symptoms. The most common symptoms were fatigue (37%), weakness (25%), and headache (24%), all with frequencies higher in children not recovered. Forty percent had at least one return emergency visit and 24% had a hospital readmission. Recovered status was associated with better total HRQOL [87 (77, 95) vs. 77 (51, 83), p = 0.01]. In multivariable analysis, lower admission C-reactive protein [odds ratio 0.90 (95% confidence interval 0.82, 0.99)] and higher admission lymphocyte count [1.001 (1.0002, 1.002)] were associated with recovered status. Conclusions Children considered recovered by their parents following hospitalization with SARS-CoV-2-related conditions had less symptom frequency and better HRQOL than those reported as not recovered. Increased inflammation and lower lymphocyte count on hospital admission may help to identify children needing longitudinal, multidisciplinary care. Clinical Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04379089).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ericka L. Fink
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Alicia M. Alcamo
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Marlina Lovett
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Mary Hartman
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Seattle Children’s Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Cydni Williams
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Critical Care and Neurotrauma Recovery Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Angela Garcia
- Division of Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Lindsey Rasmussen
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Ria Pal
- Department of Neurology, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Kurt Drury
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Critical Care and Neurotrauma Recovery Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Division of Pediatrics, Comer Children’s Hospital, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Elizabeth MackDiaz
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Peter A. Ferrazzano
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Leslie Dervan
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Brian Appavu
- Division of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Kellie Snooks
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Casey Stulce
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Pamela Rubin
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Bianca Pate
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Nicole Toney
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Courtney L. Robertson
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, and Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Mark S. Wainwright
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Seattle Children’s Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Juan D. Roa
- Department of Pediatrics, Universidad Nacional de Colombia and Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Michelle E. Schober
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Beth S. Slomine
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Schiavo M, Di Filippo P, Porreca A, Prezioso G, Orlandi G, Rossi N, Chiarelli F, Attanasi M. Potential Predictors of Long COVID in Italian Children: A Cross-Sectional Survey. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:221. [PMID: 38397333 PMCID: PMC10887525 DOI: 10.3390/children11020221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying predictive factors of long COVID syndrome (LCS) is essential to preventing and managing this condition. We investigated the prevalence, symptoms, and risk factors of LCS in a cohort of Italian children and adolescents. METHODS We carried out a cross-sectional survey on demographic characteristics and clinical data related to COVID-19 phase and LCS in a cohort of children and adolescents, sending a questionnaire by using the PEDIATOTEM platform. RESULTS The prevalence of LCS was 25% (99/396). The most frequent symptoms of LCS included nasal congestion, diarrhea, headache, and fatigue. We found no association between demographic data (gender, age, and ethnicity) and LCS. Additionally, we showed that patients with concurrent allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, respiratory disease, gastrointestinal disease, and rheumatologic disease had a higher risk of LCS than patients without those comorbidities. Patients experiencing fatigue, muscle, and abdominal pain in COVID-19 showed a higher risk of LCS than patients complaining of other symptoms. We found no association between vaccination and LCS. CONCLUSIONS Specific comorbidities or symptoms during acute illness were identified as being risk factors for LCS. Understanding which are the risk factors for LCS could yield a clearer picture of its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Schiavo
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.S.); (P.D.F.); (G.P.); (G.O.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Paola Di Filippo
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.S.); (P.D.F.); (G.P.); (G.O.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Annamaria Porreca
- Department of Economic Studies, University of Chieti, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Prezioso
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.S.); (P.D.F.); (G.P.); (G.O.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Greta Orlandi
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.S.); (P.D.F.); (G.P.); (G.O.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Nadia Rossi
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.S.); (P.D.F.); (G.P.); (G.O.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesco Chiarelli
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.S.); (P.D.F.); (G.P.); (G.O.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Marina Attanasi
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.S.); (P.D.F.); (G.P.); (G.O.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
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Sansone F, Di Filippo P, Russo D, Sgrazzutti L, Di Pillo S, Chiarelli F, Attanasi M. Lung function assessment in children with Long-Covid syndrome. Pediatr Pulmonol 2024; 59:472-481. [PMID: 38088231 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.26779] [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: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A significant percentage of patients who survived the Coronavirus Infection Disease 2019 (COVID-19) showed persistent general and respiratory symptoms even months after recovery. This condition, called Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 or Long-Covid syndrome (LCS), has been described also in children with positive history for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Little is known about the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying this syndrome. The aim of this study was to investigate any difference between children with LCS and asymptomatic peers with previous COVID-19 in terms of lung function and lung ultrasound (LUS) patterns. Secondly, we tested associations between lung function abnormalities and LUS findings with Long-Covid. METHODS We carried out a prospective, descriptive, observational study including 58 children aged 5-17 years: 28 with LCS compared to 30 asymptomatic children with previous COVID-19. We collected demographic data, history of asthma, allergy or smoke exposure, and acute COVID-19 symptoms. After a median period of 4.5 months (1%-95% range 2-21) since the infection, lung function was assessed by spirometry, body plethysmography, diffusion lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO). Airways inflammation was investigated by fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). LUS was performed independently by two experienced clinicians. RESULTS We found that children with LCS were older than controls (mean (SD) 12 (4.1) vs. 9.7 (2.6); p = .04). Children with LCS complained more frequently fatigue (46.4%), cough (17.9%), exercise intolerance (14.3%) and dyspnea (14.3%). Lung function was normal and similar between the two groups. The frequency of LUS abnormalities was similar between the two groups (43.3% children with LCS vs. 56.7% controls; p = .436). Children with LCS showed lower FeNO values (log difference -0.30 (CI 95% -0.50, -0.10)), but no association of LCS with a lower lung function and abnormal LUS findings was found. CONCLUSIONS LCS seems to be more frequent in older age children. Lung functional and structural abnormalities were not different between children with LCS and asymptomatic subjects with previous COVID-19. In addition, children with LCS showed lower FeNO values than controls, suggesting its potential role as a marker in LCS. However, further and larger studies are needed to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sansone
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Paola Di Filippo
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Daniele Russo
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Laura Sgrazzutti
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Sabrina Di Pillo
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Francesco Chiarelli
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Marina Attanasi
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
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Minotti C, McKenzie C, Dewandel I, Bekker C, Sturniolo G, Doni D, Giaquinto C, Van Der Zalm MM, Donà D. How does post COVID differ from other post-viral conditions in childhood and adolescence (0-20 years old)? A systematic review. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 68:102436. [PMID: 38333536 PMCID: PMC10850405 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Post Coronavirus disease (COVID) and other post-viral infection syndromes present an overlap of pathogenesis, onset, progression, and symptom profile. We aimed to systematically describe studies on post-viral conditions and determine the entity of post COVID compared to other post-viral conditions in children. Methods We conducted a systematic search of the Embase, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and GoogleScholar databases (January 1946-3 November 2023), according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The main outcomes were differences in condition duration, symptom type, and development of chronic symptoms. This systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023401789). Findings 35/5051 studies were included, with 42,934 children, adolescents and young adults (0-20 years old) overall. Twenty-eight studies focused on post COVID symptoms, followed by five papers on Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Rhinovirus, one study on Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), and one on gastrointestinal viruses. Studies on post COVID mainly reported data on older children/adolescents, describing long-lasting symptoms, including fatigue, neurologic, cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, mental health, and gastrointestinal symptoms. The maximum described symptoms duration was eighteen months, with an average follow-up of seven months. The development of chronic symptoms was reported by 30 studies (93.8%) for 10,473/28,474 patients (36.8%). Recovery was achieved in 18,001/28,474 cases (63.2%). The study on EBV reported persistent fatigue in adolescents for a similar duration (6 months, 46% chronic). Studies on RSV and Rhinovirus were mainly done in children under three years, with development of recurrent wheezing (up to 3 years). Interpretation Post-viral fatigue was a shared feature between post COVID and post EBV conditions. A better understanding of post COVID as a unique condition, sharing features with other post-viral syndromes, is needed. The healthcare burden and socio-economic consequences for children and their families warrant further investigation and development of appropriate healthcare management plans. The foremost requirement is the establishment of consistent and shareable definitions, as well as a consensus on outcomes, to effectively evaluate follow-up and quantify the burden of different viral infections. Funding EU Horizon, EDCTP, NIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Minotti
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Italy
- PhD Program in Clinical Research, University Children's Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Carla McKenzie
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Isabelle Dewandel
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Carien Bekker
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Giulia Sturniolo
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Italy
| | - Denis Doni
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Italy
| | - Carlo Giaquinto
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Italy
| | - Marieke M. Van Der Zalm
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Daniele Donà
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Italy
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Assia-Robles SI, Hernández-Morales MDR, Mancilla-Hernández E, López-Méndez DP, Nazarala-Sanchez S, González-Hidalgo SA. [Post-COVID-19 condition in children and adolescents from a cohort: prevalence and risk factors]. REVISTA ALERGIA MÉXICO 2024; 71:23-28. [PMID: 38683065 DOI: 10.29262/ram.v71i1.1285] [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: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence and risk factors of the post-COVID-19 condition of children and adolescents from a cohort. METHODS Observational and analytical cohort study. Statistical analysis: percentages, frequencies; averages; Odds ratio, χ2 test, and multiple binary logistic regression. Statistical Package, for the Social Sciences 23. RESULTS Prevalence of the post-COVID-19 condition was: 14.8% of 175 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria, 26 developed post-COVID-19 condition, mean age 5.9 years (SD: 5.05), sex: 27% men, 73% women, frequent symptoms: fatigue, runny nose, muscle pain, dyspnea. Symptoms associated with post-COVID-19 condition: muscle pain (OR: 27; p = 0.000; IC95%5.2-139), dysgeusia (OR: 19; p = 0.012; IC95%: 1.9-19), and fatigue (OR: 5; p = 0.001; IC95%: 1.9-13.5). Associated risk factors: female (OR: 3.58; p = 0.023; CI95%: 1.19-10.71), comorbidities (OR: 24.5; p = 0.000; CI95%: 7.52-79), allergic rhinitis (OR: 8.7; p = 0.000; CI95%: 2.66-28.87), atopic dermatitis (OR: 9. 58; p = 0.016 CI95%: 1.51-60.5). CONCLUSIONS Although the majority of children infected with SARS-CoV-2 recover completely, some of them will develop a post-COVID-19 condition, knowing the most frequent symptoms and associated factors, will allow a better evaluation, for its opportune detection and effective treatment.
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Lai Z, Pu T, Li J, Bai F, Wu L, Tang Y. Visual analysis of hotspots and trends in long COVID research based on bibliometric. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24053. [PMID: 38293444 PMCID: PMC10827472 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
After severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, a series of symptoms may persist for a long time, which is now called long COVID. It was found that long COVID can affect all patients with COVID-19. Therefore, long COVID has become a hot topic. In this study, we used the WOS database as a sample data source to conduct a bibliometric and visual analysis of 1765 long COVID articles over the past three years through VOSviewer and R package. The results show that countries/authors in Europe and The United States of America contribute most of the articles, and their cooperation is also the most active. Keyword co-occurrence identified four clusters, with important topics including the mechanism, clinical symptoms, epidemiological characteristics, and management/treatment of long COVID. Themes such as "cognitive impairment", "endothelial dysfunction", "diagnosis", and "biomarkers" are likely to be the focus of new attention in the coming period. In addition, we put forward the possible research opportunities on long COVID for researchers and practitioners to facilitate future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongqiang Lai
- The Pharmaceutical Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Tao Pu
- Department of Adolescent Gynecology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Jun Li
- The Pharmaceutical Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Facheng Bai
- The Pharmaceutical Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Lining Wu
- The Pharmaceutical Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Yunxia Tang
- The Pharmaceutical Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, PR China
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Kostev K, Smith L, Koyanagi A, Konrad M, Jacob L. Post-COVID-19 conditions in children and adolescents diagnosed with COVID-19. Pediatr Res 2024; 95:182-187. [PMID: 35568733 PMCID: PMC9107066 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02111-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of and the factors associated with post-COVID-2019 condition in COVID-19 children and adolescents in Germany. METHODS The present retrospective cohort study used data from the Disease Analyzer database (IQVIA), and included patients aged <18 years who were diagnosed with COVID-19 in one of 524 general and 81 pediatric practices in Germany between October 2020 and August 2021 (index date: first COVID-19 diagnosis). Post-COVID-19 condition was assessed between the index date and November 2021. Covariates included age, sex, type of practice, and chronic conditions documented in at least 1% of the population. RESULTS There were 6568 children and adolescents included in this study (mean [SD] age 10.1 [4.9] years; 49.2% girls). The prevalence of post-COVID-19 condition was 1.7% in the population. Patients aged 13-17 years were more likely to be diagnosed with post-COVID-19 condition compared with those being aged ≤5 years (RR = 3.14). Anxiety disorders (RR = 2.53), somatoform disorders (RR = 2.11), and allergic rhinitis (RR = 2.02) were also significantly associated with post-COVID-19 condition. CONCLUSION Post-COVID-19 condition was rare in COVID-19 children and adolescents in Germany. Data from other settings are warranted to confirm these findings. IMPACT The prevalence of post-COVID-19 condition was 1.7% in this population of children and adolescents. Older children and adolescents were more likely to be diagnosed with post-COVID-19 condition than their younger counterparts. Anxiety disorders, somatoform disorders, and allergic rhinitis were significantly associated with post-COVID-19 condition. More data from other settings and countries are warranted to corroborate or refute these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lee Smith
- Centre for Health, Performance and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ai Koyanagi
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Pg. Lluis Companys 23, Barcelona, Spain
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, 42, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marcel Konrad
- Health & Social, FOM University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Management, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Louis Jacob
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, 42, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
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El-Baky NA, Amara AA, Uversky VN, Redwan EM. Intrinsic factors behind long COVID: III. Persistence of SARS-CoV-2 and its components. J Cell Biochem 2024; 125:22-44. [PMID: 38098317 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30514] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Considerable research has been done in investigating SARS-CoV-2 infection, its characteristics, and host immune response. However, debate is still ongoing over the emergence of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). A multitude of long-lasting symptoms have been reported several weeks after the primary acute SARS-CoV-2 infection that resemble several other viral infections. Thousands of research articles have described various post-COVID-19 conditions. Yet, the evidence around these ongoing health problems, the reasons behind them, and their molecular underpinnings are scarce. These persistent symptoms are also known as long COVID-19. The persistence of SARS-CoV-2 and/or its components in host tissues can lead to long COVID. For example, the presence of viral nucleocapsid protein and RNA was detected in the skin, appendix, and breast tissues of some long COVID patients. The persistence of viral RNA was reported in multiple anatomic sites, including non-respiratory tissues such as the adrenal gland, ocular tissue, small intestine, lymph nodes, myocardium, and sciatic nerve. Distinctive viral spike sequence variants were also found in non-respiratory tissues. Interestingly, prolonged detection of viral subgenomic RNA was observed across all tissues, sometimes in multiple tissues of the same patient, which likely reflects recent but defective viral replication. Moreover, the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was noticed throughout the brain at autopsy, as late as 230 days following symptom onset among unvaccinated patients who died of severe infection. Here, we review the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 and its components as an intrinsic factor behind long COVID. We also highlight the immunological consequences of this viral persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawal Abd El-Baky
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab City, Egypt
| | - Amro A Amara
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab City, Egypt
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine, USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Elrashdy M Redwan
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Gordon AS, Shambhu S, Xia Y, Bowers PN, Sloop S, Hsu E. Clinical and healthcare utilization outcomes during the 6 months following COVID infection in children. Pediatr Res 2024; 95:342-349. [PMID: 37587368 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02762-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to identify the impact of COVID infection in children in the US prior to vaccine availability on clinical and healthcare utilization outcomes within 6 months of infection. METHODS Using claims data from a large national insurer, we identified 223,842 children with a COVID diagnosis in May 2020-March 2021 and matched them to 223,842 children with a COVID test and no diagnosis. We compared the two cohorts' outcomes during the 6 months after infection/test. RESULTS Uncommon acute adverse events occurring in <0.5% of cases, including MIS-C (relative risk (RR) = 45.2), myocarditis (RR = 10.3), acute heart failure (RR = 2.14), sepsis (RR = 2.02), and viral pneumonia (RR = 2.43) were more frequent in the COVID cohort (all p < 0.001). Development of arrhythmias (RR = 1.24, p < 0.001) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (RR = 1.41, p = 0.007) were more common in the COVID group, while behavioral health disorders were less common (RR = 0.94, p < 0.001). Lab testing and imaging were slightly higher in the COVID group (RR ranging 1.05-1.11 depending on the service and timeframe), though medical costs did not increase. CONCLUSION Severe disease and diagnoses of new conditions are rare in children following COVID infection. We observed an increase in cardiac complications, though they may not last long term. IMPACT Few studies have analyzed the association between COVID infection and medium-term outcomes in children. Our study of >447,000 geographically and socioeconomically diverse children in the US found that uncommon acute adverse events, including myocarditis, MIS-C, and acute heart failure, were more frequent in children with COVID than matched controls, and development of arrhythmias and cardiovascular disease were 1.2 and 1.4 times more common, respectively. Six-month healthcare utilization was similar between cohorts. We provide data on the risks of COVID in children, particularly with respect to cardiac complications, that decision makers may find useful when weighing the benefits and harms of preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliza S Gordon
- Public Policy Institute, Elevance Health, Inc., Indianapolis, IN, 46204, USA.
| | - Sonali Shambhu
- Public Policy Institute, Elevance Health, Inc., Indianapolis, IN, 46204, USA
| | - Yaoxuan Xia
- Carelon Research, Wilmington, DE, 19801, USA
| | - Peter N Bowers
- Population Health Management Support, Elevance Health, Inc., Indianapolis, IN, 46204, USA
| | - Sue Sloop
- Health Economics, Elevance Health, Inc., Indianapolis, IN, 46204, USA
| | - Eugene Hsu
- Medicare Clinical Operations, Elevance Health, Inc., Indianapolis, IN, 46204, USA
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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Di Chiara C, Barbieri E, Chen YX, Visonà E, Cavagnis S, Sturniolo G, Parca A, Liberati C, Cantarutti L, Lupattelli A, Le Prevost M, Corrao G, Giaquinto C, Donà D, Cantarutti A. Comparative study showed that children faced a 78% higher risk of new-onset conditions after they had COVID-19. Acta Paediatr 2023; 112:2563-2571. [PMID: 37688774 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16966] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM Children have largely been unaffected by severe COVID-19 compared to adults, but data suggest that they may have experienced new conditions after developing the disease. We compared outcomes in children who had experienced COVID-19 and healthy controls. METHODS A retrospective nested cohort study assessed the incidence rate of new-onset conditions after COVID-19 in children aged 0-14 years. Data were retrieved from an Italian paediatric primary care database linked to Veneto Region registries. Exposed children with a positive nasopharyngeal swab were matched 1:1 with unexposed children who had tested negative. Conditional Cox regression was fitted to estimate the adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the exposure and outcome associations after adjusting for covariates. RESULTS We compared 1656 exposed and 1656 unexposed children from 1 February 2020 to 30 November 2021. The overall excess risk for new-onset conditions after COVID-19 was 78% higher in the exposed than unexposed children. We found significantly higher risks for some new conditions in exposed children, including mental health issues (aHR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-3.0) and neurological problems (aHR 2.4, 95% CI 1.4-4.1). CONCLUSION Exposed children had a 78% higher risk of developing new conditions of interest after COVID-19 than unexposed children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costanza Di Chiara
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Department for Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Penta-Child Health Research, Padua, Italy
| | - Elisa Barbieri
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Department for Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Penta-Child Health Research, Padua, Italy
| | - Yu Xi Chen
- Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, Division of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Visonà
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Department for Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Sara Cavagnis
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Department for Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Giulia Sturniolo
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Department for Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Agnese Parca
- Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, Division of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Liberati
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Department for Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Angela Lupattelli
- PharmacoEpidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, and PharmaTox Strategic Research Initiative, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Giovanni Corrao
- Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, Division of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Giaquinto
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Department for Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Penta-Child Health Research, Padua, Italy
- Società Servizi Telematici-Pedianet, Padua, Italy
| | - Daniele Donà
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Department for Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Penta-Child Health Research, Padua, Italy
| | - Anna Cantarutti
- Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, Division of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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Rajamoorthy Y, Wagner AL, Kumaran VV, Munusamy S, Taib NM, Tin OH, Bradin A, Vo TQ. Parents' willingness to pay for COVID-19 vaccination for children in Malaysia using the contingent valuation method. NARRA J 2023; 3:e187. [PMID: 38450341 PMCID: PMC10914040 DOI: 10.52225/narra.v3i3.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Children are susceptible and a potential source of transmission for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However compulsory COVID-19 vaccination programs among children have not been a focus in Malaysia. The aim of this study was to measure parents' willingness to pay (WTP) for the COVID-19 vaccine and analyze the effects of socioeconomic variables on parents' WTP. An online cross-sectional study was conducted in Malaysia with two waves of surveys (i.e., different samples for each wave), March and June 2021. The study participants were Malaysian parents above 18 years old. Parents were randomized between two vaccine effectiveness profiles (95% and 50% effectiveness) and two risk levels of an adverse event (5% and 20% risk of fever). The WTP was estimated using a double-bounded dichotomous choice. Socioeconomic variables such as age of parent, gender, insurance, income, and education were examined. A total of 292 parents in March 2021 and 271 in June 2021 were included in the study. The vaccine safety and effectiveness profile did not significantly impact the WTP. In March 2021, the estimated WTP ranged from RM344.74 to RM399.64 (US$82.5 to US$95.6) across vaccine profiles and between RM377.55 and RM444.33 (US$90.3 to US$106.3) in June. Insurance status was associated with the parents' WTP, and during the June wave, the age of parents influenced the WTP. Implementing subsidies or free vaccinations is considerable to increase herd immunity and prevent transmission of COVID-19 in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogambigai Rajamoorthy
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Accountancy and Management, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abram L. Wagner
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | | | - Subramaniam Munusamy
- Faculty of School of Management and Business, Manipal International University, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Niazlin M. Taib
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ong H. Tin
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Aaron Bradin
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Trung Q. Vo
- Department of Economic and Administrative Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
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Ha EK, Kim JH, Han MY. Long COVID in children and adolescents: prevalence, clinical manifestations, and management strategies. Clin Exp Pediatr 2023; 66:465-474. [PMID: 37350170 PMCID: PMC10626026 DOI: 10.3345/cep.2023.00472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Long coronavirus disease (COVID), also known as postacute sequelae of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, has been defined as signs and symptoms which persist for 4 weeks or even lasting for 6 months after the initial infection. Although the prevalence of long COVID in children is currently unknown, epidemiological investigations have reported cases in pediatric populations. Clinical manifestations of long COVID in children include respiratory symptoms, such as cough and dyspnea, as well as neuropsychiatric and general conditions, including fatigue, headache, and muscle weakness. The pathophysiology of long COVID in children is still being investigated, but potential mechanisms include viral persistence, autoimmunity, and neuroinflammation. Risk factors for long COVID in children are not yet well understood, but studies have suggested that children with a history of severe acute COVID-19 infection or comorbidities may be at increased risk. Evaluation for respiratory symptoms of long COVID in children is essential, including spirometry and imaging studies to assess lung function and any potential damage. Furthermore, long COVID in children has been associated with a higher prevalence of mental health problems than in adults, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and addressing these aspects in pediatric patients. Although our understanding of long COVID in children and adolescents is still evolving, it is clear that the condition can have significant impacts on their health and well-being. The aim of this review is to synthesize the current knowledge on the prevalence, risk factors, and pathophysiology of long COVID in children and adolescents, and to discuss potential management strategies based on existing evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Kyo Ha
- Department of Pediatrics, Hallym University Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ju Hee Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Man Yong Han
- Department of Pediatrics, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
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Mohan A, Iyer VA, Kumar D, Batra L, Dahiya P. Navigating the Post-COVID-19 Immunological Era: Understanding Long COVID-19 and Immune Response. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2121. [PMID: 38004261 PMCID: PMC10672162 DOI: 10.3390/life13112121] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the world unprecedentedly, with both positive and negative impacts. COVID-19 significantly impacted the immune system, and understanding the immunological consequences of COVID-19 is essential for developing effective treatment strategies. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively explore and provide insights into the immunological aspects of long COVID-19, a phenomenon where individuals continue to experience a range of symptoms and complications, even after the acute phase of COVID-19 infection has subsided. The immune system responds to the initial infection by producing various immune cells and molecules, including antibodies, T cells, and cytokines. However, in some patients, this immune response becomes dysregulated, leading to chronic inflammation and persistent symptoms. Long COVID-19 encompasses diverse persistent symptoms affecting multiple organ systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and gastrointestinal systems. In the post-COVID-19 immunological era, long COVID-19 and its impact on immune response have become a significant concern. Post-COVID-19 immune pathology, including autoimmunity and immune-mediated disorders, has also been reported in some patients. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of long COVID-19, its relationship to immunological responses, and the impact of post-COVID-19 immune pathology on patient outcomes. Additionally, the review addresses the current and potential treatments for long COVID-19, including immunomodulatory therapies, rehabilitation programs, and mental health support, all of which aim to improve the quality of life for individuals with long COVID-19. Understanding the complex interplay between the immune system and long COVID-19 is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic strategies and providing optimal care in the post-COVID-19 era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Mohan
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida Sector-125, Noida 201313, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.M.); (V.A.I.)
| | - Venkatesh Anand Iyer
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida Sector-125, Noida 201313, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.M.); (V.A.I.)
| | - Dharmender Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science &Technology, Murthal, Sonipat 131309, Haryana, India;
| | - Lalit Batra
- Regional Biocontainment Laboratory, Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40222, USA
| | - Praveen Dahiya
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida Sector-125, Noida 201313, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.M.); (V.A.I.)
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Irani S, Chang C, Morrison L, Waselewski M, Chang T. Youth experiences with and perspectives on long covid. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2059. [PMID: 37864192 PMCID: PMC10588061 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16899-8] [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] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on the long-term effects of COVID-19 infection is ongoing, and the psychological and physical impacts of Long Covid on youth is poorly understood. To assess these impacts, we surveyed youth regarding their experiences with, and perspectives on, the long-term effects of COVID-19. METHODS We conducted a nationwide text message survey of youth ages 14-24 years in the United States. The survey asked four open ended questions regarding their experiences and perceptions regarding the long-term effects of COVID-19. Qualitative data was analyzed independently by three investigators using thematic analysis. Prevalence of codes were summarized using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Among 1150 participants, 991 responded to at least one survey question (response rate 86.1%). The vast majority of our sample had COVID-19 or knew someone who did (75%), and approximately one third (32%) of youth indicated that they knew someone who had experienced symptoms consistent with Long Covid. Many youth (50%) reported worry and concern about Long Covid even if they, or someone they knew, did not have Long Covid. Among youth who were not concerned about Long Covid, the most commonly reported reasons were having received the vaccine (29%) and not having a prior COVID-19 infection (24%). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that among younger populations, there is significant concern regarding the long-term effects of COVID-19. Vaccination campaigns and youth-centered public health communication about Long Covid may not only reduce COVID-19 transmission, but also alleviate worries and concerns about Long Covid among youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarosh Irani
- University of Michigan Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Claire Chang
- University of Michigan Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Leigh Morrison
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan, 2800 Plymouth Rd Bldg 14, Room G128, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Marika Waselewski
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan, 2800 Plymouth Rd Bldg 14, Room G128, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Tammy Chang
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan, 2800 Plymouth Rd Bldg 14, Room G128, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Wei ZYD, Liang K, Shetty AK. Complications of COVID-19 on the Central Nervous System: Mechanisms and Potential Treatment for Easing Long COVID. Aging Dis 2023; 14:1492-1510. [PMID: 37163427 PMCID: PMC10529748 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) invades human cells by binding to the angiotensin-converting-enzyme-2 (ACE-2) using a spike protein and leads to Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 primarily causes a respiratory infection that can lead to severe systemic inflammation. It is also common for some patients to develop significant neurological and psychiatric symptoms. The spread of SARS-CoV-2 to the CNS likely occurs through several pathways. Once spread in the CNS, many acute symptoms emerge, and such infections could also transpire into severe neurological complications, including encephalitis or ischemic stroke. After recovery from the acute infection, a significant percentage of patients develop "long COVID," a condition in which several symptoms of COVID-19 persist for prolonged periods. This review aims to discuss acute and chronic neurological problems after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The potential mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 enters the CNS and causes neuroinflammation, neuropathological changes observed in post-mortem brains of COVID-19 patients, and cognitive and mood problems in COVID-19 survivors are discussed in the initial part. The later part of the review deliberates the causes of long COVID, approaches for noninvasive tracking of neuroinflammation in long COVID patients, and the potential therapeutic strategies that could ease enduring CNS symptoms observed in long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuang-Yao D Wei
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A&M University Health Science Center School of Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Ketty Liang
- Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Conroe, TX, USA
| | - Ashok K Shetty
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A&M University Health Science Center School of Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
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Yildirim Arslan S, Avcu G, Sahbudak Bal Z, Arslan A, Ozkinay FF, Kurugol Z. Evaluation of post-COVID symptoms of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron variants in children: a prospective study. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:4565-4571. [PMID: 37526704 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05134-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
The post-COVID-19 syndrome is a new syndrome defined in patients with a history of probable or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, usually within three months of the onset of COVID-19, with symptoms and effects lasting at least 2 months. This study is aimed at comprehensively comparing symptoms of the post-COVID-19 syndrome in children with Delta and Omicron variants. This prospective study included children with COVID-19 followed in hospitalized or outpatient clinics in a tertiary hospital. We used a special questionnaire to ask about the presence of persistent symptoms more than 12 weeks after the initial diagnosis. Patients with positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR were selected randomly and grouped according to the dominant variants in our country at that time as follows: Omicron group (after December 16, 2021); Delta (B.1.617.2) group (August 15, 2021, and December 15, 2021). This study included 200 children, 71 of whom were in the Delta group and 129 of whom were in the Omicron group. Weakness (8.5% vs. 1.6%; p = 0.017), the impact of physical efforts (5.6% vs. 3.9%; p = 0.020), fatigue (22.5% vs. 8.5%; p = 0.009), anxiety disorder (12.7% vs. 0.8%; p = 0.001), and gastrointestinal changes (12.7% vs. 4.7%, p = 0.050) were statistically significantly higher in patients with the Delta variant compared to patients with the Omicron variant. There were no differences between the groups regarding anorexia, anosmia/ageusia, arthralgia, influenza-like symptoms, sleeping disorders, decreased physical activity daily, headache, need for analgesia, concentration and memory disorder, and weight loss (p > 0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that weakness, the impact of physical efforts, fatigue, anxiety disorder, and gastrointestinal changes were more frequent in the Delta group compared to the Omicron group. The incidence of post-COVID-19 syndrome is high in children as well as adults and affects several systems; therefore, it should be kept in mind that children should be followed for post-COVID-19 syndrome. What is Known: • Despite the milder severity of acute COVID-19 in children, post-COVID-19 symptoms may occur. The post-COVID-19 condition is complex and novel, especially in the pediatric population. What is New: • Post-COVID-19 symptoms in children differ depending on the viral variant. Post-COVID-19 syndrome has a great impact on the social life of children which may have serious and long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sema Yildirim Arslan
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gulhadiye Avcu
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Zumrut Sahbudak Bal
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Asli Arslan
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Feristah Ferda Ozkinay
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Zafer Kurugol
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
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Burns MD, Bartsch YC, Davis JP, Boribong BP, Loiselle M, Kang J, Kane AS, Edlow AG, Fasano A, Alter G, Yonker LM. Long-term humoral signatures following acute pediatric COVID-19 and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. Pediatr Res 2023; 94:1327-1334. [PMID: 37173406 PMCID: PMC10176275 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02627-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although most children experience mild symptoms during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, some develop the severe post-COVID-19 complication, Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). While acute presentations of COVID-19 and MIS-C have been well immunophenotyped, little is known about the lasting immune profile in children after acute illness. METHODS Children 2 months-20 years of age presenting with either acute COVID-19 (n = 9) or MIS-C (n = 12) were enrolled in a Pediatric COVID-19 Biorepository at a single medical center. We deeply profiled humoral immune responses and circulating cytokines following pediatric COVID-19 and MIS-C. RESULTS Twenty-one children and young adults provided blood samples at both acute presentation and 6-month follow-up (mean: 6.5 months; standard deviation: 1.77 months). Pro-inflammatory cytokine elevations resolved after both acute COVID-19 and MIS-C. Humoral profiles continue to mature after acute COVID-19, displaying decreasing IgM and increasing IgG over time, as well as stronger effector functions, including antibody-dependent monocyte activation. In contrast, MIS-C immune signatures, especially anti-Spike IgG1, diminished over time. CONCLUSIONS Here, we show the mature immune signature after pediatric COVID-19 and MIS-C, displaying resolving inflammation with recalibration of the humoral responses. These humoral profiles highlight immune activation and vulnerabilities over time in these pediatric post-infectious cohorts. IMPACT The pediatric immune profile matures after both COVID-19 and MIS-C, suggesting a diversified anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody response after resolution of acute illness. While pro-inflammatory cytokine responses resolve in the months following acute infection in both conditions, antibody-activated responses remain relatively heightened in convalescent COVID-19. These data may inform long-term immunoprotection from reinfection in children with past SARS-CoV-2 infections or MIS-C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine D Burns
- Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yannic C Bartsch
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jameson P Davis
- Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brittany P Boribong
- Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maggie Loiselle
- Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jaewon Kang
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Abigail S Kane
- Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrea G Edlow
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alessio Fasano
- Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Galit Alter
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Lael M Yonker
- Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Hicks SD. Comparison of Symptom Duration Between Children With SARS-CoV-2 and Peers With Other Viral Illnesses During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2023; 62:1101-1108. [PMID: 36748919 PMCID: PMC9908512 DOI: 10.1177/00099228231152840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Some children and young people (CYP) with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) experience persistent symptoms, commonly called "long COVID." It remains unclear whether symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 persist longer than those of other respiratory viruses, particularly in young children. This cross-sectional study involved 372 CYP (0-15 years) tested for SARS-CoV-2. Character and duration of symptoms (cough, runny nose, sore throat, rash, diarrhea, vomiting, sore muscles, fatigue, fever, loss of smell) were compared between CYP with a positive test (n = 100) and those with a negative test (n = 272), while controlling for medical/demographic covariates. The average duration of symptoms for CYP with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test (8.5 ± 10 days) did not differ from that of CYP with a negative test (7.2 ± 5 days, P = .71, d = 0.046). A positive SARS-CoV-2 test did not increase the risk (36/372, 10%) of symptoms persisting for ≥3 weeks (odds ratio = 0.96, 95% confidence interval = 0.45-2.0). These results suggest CYP with non-SARS-CoV-2 infections experience a similar duration of symptoms as peers with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D. Hicks
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
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Mancino E, Nenna R, Matera L, La Regina DP, Petrarca L, Iovine E, Di Mattia G, Frassanito A, Conti MG, Bonci E, Spatuzzo M, Ialongo S, Zicari AM, Spalice A, Midulla F. A Single Center Observational Study on Clinical Manifestations and Associated Factors of Pediatric Long COVID. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6799. [PMID: 37754658 PMCID: PMC10531477 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20186799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Children with SARS-CoV-2 are mostly mild symptomatic, but they may develop conditions, such as persisting symptoms, that may put them at greater risk of complications. Our aim was to evaluate the frequency and the presence of risk factors for persisting COVID-19 symptoms in children. We carried out a prospective observational study of the clinical manifestation of Long COVID at the Department of Maternal Infantile Science of a tertiary University hospital in Rome. We included 697 children (0-18 years), with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. Children and parents were asked questions regarding persistent symptoms of COVID-19. Children with symptoms 30 days after initial diagnosis were 185/697 (26.4%). Moreover, 81/697 (11.6%) patients presented symptoms 90 days after the diagnosis. Thirty-day-persisting symptoms were mostly present in children with anosmia, atopy, asthenia, and cough in the acute phase compared with the asymptomatic children 30 days after infection. After 90 days, symptoms described were mainly neurological (47/697 children, 6.7%), and headache (19/697; 2.7%) was the most frequent manifestation. In conclusion, a relatively large proportion of the patients reported persisting symptoms that seem to be related to the symptom burden and to the atopy. Ninety days after the infection, most of the children had recovered, showing that long-term effects are not frequent. Limitations of the study include the single-center design and the lack of a control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Mancino
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaella Nenna
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Matera
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Paolo La Regina
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Petrarca
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Elio Iovine
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Greta Di Mattia
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Frassanito
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Giulia Conti
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Enea Bonci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Spatuzzo
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Ialongo
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Zicari
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Spalice
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Midulla
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Stojkovic A, Ilic I, Kostic A, Dajic K, Raskovic Z, Nestorovic J, Ilic M. The Difficulty Detecting Tuberculosis in a Child with Post-COVID-19 and Cerebral Palsy. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2826. [PMID: 37685364 PMCID: PMC10486478 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13172826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
When hypostatic pneumonia is present at the same time as COVID-19 pneumonia, the clinical course is almost always prolonged (prolonged-COVID-19) due to persistent inflammation, long-term anti-inflammatory syndrome, followed by immune exhaustion, i.e., by immunosuppression and catabolic syndrome. In the immunosuppression phase, viral reactivation can be accompanied by a secondary infection, which, in this case, is pulmonary tuberculosis. Pulmonary tuberculosis in post-COVID-19 patients and in patients with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy does not have a typical clinical course nor laboratory, radiological, immunological, microbiological, or fiberbronchoscopic pathohistological confirmation. Due to this, the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis was not carried out on time, postponed after the unsuccessful treatment of sepsis, post-COVID-19, and other accompanying viral (adenovirus, RSV) and bacterial (streptococcus viridans) infections. The treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis was possible only "ex juvantibus" (trial) post-COVID-19. It becomes imperative to search for a new, more precise and reliable diagnostic test for the detection of tuberculosis bacillus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andjelka Stojkovic
- University Clinical Center Clinic of Pediatrics Kragujevac Serbia, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (A.K.); (K.D.); (Z.R.); (J.N.)
- University of Kragujevac, Serbia, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Irena Ilic
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Andrijana Kostic
- University Clinical Center Clinic of Pediatrics Kragujevac Serbia, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (A.K.); (K.D.); (Z.R.); (J.N.)
| | - Katerina Dajic
- University Clinical Center Clinic of Pediatrics Kragujevac Serbia, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (A.K.); (K.D.); (Z.R.); (J.N.)
| | - Zorica Raskovic
- University Clinical Center Clinic of Pediatrics Kragujevac Serbia, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (A.K.); (K.D.); (Z.R.); (J.N.)
| | - Jelena Nestorovic
- University Clinical Center Clinic of Pediatrics Kragujevac Serbia, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia; (A.K.); (K.D.); (Z.R.); (J.N.)
| | - Milena Ilic
- University of Kragujevac, Serbia, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Epidemiology, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia;
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Joffe AR, Elliott A. Long COVID as a functional somatic symptom disorder caused by abnormally precise prior expectations during Bayesian perceptual processing: A new hypothesis and implications for pandemic response. SAGE Open Med 2023; 11:20503121231194400. [PMID: 37655303 PMCID: PMC10467233 DOI: 10.1177/20503121231194400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
This review proposes a model of Long-COVID where the constellation of symptoms are in fact genuinely experienced persistent physical symptoms that are usually functional in nature and therefore potentially reversible, that is, Long-COVID is a somatic symptom disorder. First, we describe what is currently known about Long-COVID in children and adults. Second, we examine reported "Long-Pandemic" effects that create a risk for similar somatic symptoms to develop in non-COVID-19 patients. Third, we describe what was known about somatization and somatic symptom disorder before the COVID-19 pandemic, and suggest that by analogy, Long-COVID may best be conceptualized as one of these disorders, with similar symptoms and predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors. Fourth, we review the phenomenon of mass sociogenic (functional) illness, and the concept of nocebo effects, and suggest that by analogy, Long-COVID is compatible with these descriptions. Fifth, we describe the current theoretical model of the mechanism underlying functional disorders, the Bayesian predictive coding model for perception. This model accounts for moderators that can make symptom inferences functionally inaccurate and therefore can explain how to understand common predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors. Finally, we discuss the implications of this framework for improved public health messaging during a pandemic, with recommendations for the management of Long-COVID symptoms in healthcare systems. We argue that the current public health approach has induced fear of Long-COVID in the population, including from constant messaging about disabling symptoms of Long-COVID and theorizing irreversible tissue damage as the cause of Long-COVID. This has created a self-fulfilling prophecy by inducing the very predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors for the syndrome. Finally, we introduce the term "Pandemic-Response Syndrome" to describe what previously was labeled Long-COVID. This alternative perspective aims to stimulate research and serve as a lesson learned to avoid a repeat performance in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari R Joffe
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - April Elliott
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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48
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Jiang L, Li X, Nie J, Tang K, Bhutta ZA. A Systematic Review of Persistent Clinical Features After SARS-CoV-2 in the Pediatric Population. Pediatrics 2023; 152:e2022060351. [PMID: 37476923 PMCID: PMC10389775 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-060351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Long-term health effects after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been increasingly reported but their prevalence and significance in the pediatric population remains uncertain. OBJECTIVE To present the prevalence and characteristics of the long-term clinical features of COVID-19 (long COVID) in the global pediatric population. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, WHO COVID-19 database, google scholar, medRxiv, bioRxiv, and multiple national public health databases. STUDY SELECTION Published articles and preprints from December, 2019 to December, 2022 investigating the epidemiology and characteristics of persistent clinical features at least 3 months after COVID-19 in children and adolescents (0-19 years old) were included. DATA EXTRACTION Study characteristics and detailed description of long COVID were extracted into a predefined form. RESULTS Twenty seven cohorts and 4 cross-sectional studies met the inclusion criteria and involved over 15 000 pediatric participants. A total of more than 20 persistent symptoms and clinical features were reported among children and adolescents. 16.2% (95% confidence interval 8.5% to 28.6%) of the pediatric participants experienced 1 or more persistent symptom(s) at least 3 months post COVID-19. Female gender might be associated with developing certain long COVID symptoms. LIMITATIONS Included studies presented with great heterogeneity because of significant variations in the definition of "long COVID," follow up duration, and method. There could be nonresponse and other potential bias. CONCLUSIONS Persistent clinical features beyond 3 months among children and adolescents with proven COVID-19 are common and the symptom spectrum is wide. High-quality, prospective studies with proper controls are necessary in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Jiang
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Xuan Li
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Nie
- Institute for Risk Assessment Science (IRAS), Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Kun Tang
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zulfiqar A. Bhutta
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
- Center of Excellence in Women and Child Health, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
- Institute for Global Health and Development, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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49
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Chen EY, Burton JM, Johnston A, Morrow AK, Yonts AB, Malone LA. Considerations in Children and Adolescents Related to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2023; 34:643-655. [PMID: 37419537 PMCID: PMC10063573 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2023.03.004] [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: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) or "long COVID" are a complex multisystemic disease that affects children's physical, social, and mental health. PASC has a variable presentation, time course, and severity and can affect children even with mild or asymptomatic acute COVID-19 symptoms. Screening for PASC in children with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection is important for early detection and intervention. A multifaceted treatment approach and utilization of multidisciplinary care, if available, are beneficial in managing the complexities of PASC. Lifestyle interventions, physical rehabilitation, and mental health management are important treatment approaches to improve pediatric PASC patients' quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Y Chen
- Johns Hopkins School Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Justin M Burton
- Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Children's National Health System, 111 Michigan Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Alicia Johnston
- Division of Infectious Disease, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Amanda K Morrow
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Alexandra B Yonts
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's National Health System, 111 Michigan Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Laura A Malone
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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50
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Karev V, Starshinova AY, Glushkova A, Kudlay D, Starshinova A. Features of Myocarditis: Morphological Differential Diagnosis in Post-COVID-19 Children. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2499. [PMID: 37568863 PMCID: PMC10417761 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13152499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Myocarditis is characterized by dysfunction and destruction of cardiomyocytes, infiltrative inflammation, and development of fibrosis. Late diagnosis of myocarditis has been a serious global health problem, especially due to the spread of a new coronavirus infection. The aim of this review is to identify differences between myocarditis of viral etiology, including SARS-CoV-2 lesions, based on instrumental and pathomorphological findings. MATERIAL AND METHODS We analyzed publications covering the period from December 2019 to May 2023, published in publicly accessible international databases ("Medline", "PubMed", "Scopus"), with queries for the keywords "myocarditis", "children", "cardiovascular inflammation", "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2", "severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2", "differential diagnosis". RESULTS It was found that no unambiguous morphological criteria for the diagnosis of myocarditis coupled to SARS-CoV-2 lesions were identified. However, the detected histopathological changes such as virus-associated degeneration, apoptosis, cardiomyocyte necrosis, moderate interstitial hyperemia, myocardial tissue oedema, and capillary endothelial cell dysfunction were the major markers of SARS-CoV-2 infection. CONCLUSION It is necessary further reconsider morphological criteria to diagnose SARS-CoV-2-caused myocarditis, rather than solely relying on detecting viral RNA by PCR as the sole evidence-based criterion. Similar issues accompany diagnostics of myocardial lesions associated with other viral infections. Evidence for an etiological diagnosis of myocarditis can be provided by a comprehensive analysis of the diagnostic criteria obtained, confirming virus exposure, followed by development of distinct clinical symptoms, MRI and CT changes, and morphological criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadim Karev
- Children’s Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, St. Petersburg 194100, Russia;
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
| | | | - Anzhela Glushkova
- Medical Faculty, Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University, St. Petersburg 197022, Russia;
| | - Dmitry Kudlay
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacy, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia;
- Institute of Immunology FMBA of Russia, Moscow 115478, Russia
| | - Anna Starshinova
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
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