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Seifert V, Böck L, Wirbelauer J. Enterovirus Infection in Preterm Quadruplets with Clinical Presentation of Neonatal Late-Onset Sepsis: a Case Report. Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol 2024. [PMID: 38621739 DOI: 10.1055/a-2279-6803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
This is the unusual case of concurrent late-onset sepsis caused by enteroviruses in preterm quadruplets in a neonatal ward. While viral infections are an important differential diagnosis of bacterial sepsis in the outpatient setting, the occurrence in a neonatal ward with strict prophylactic hygiene measures is unusual. In this case, transmission of enteroviruses via breast milk appears possible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lena Böck
- University Children's Hospital, Würzburg, Germany
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Jamali Z, Mohammadpour N, Sinaei R, Jafari M, Sabzevari F, Hasannejad M. The footprint of SARS-COV-2 infection in neonatal late sepsis. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:184. [PMID: 38491449 PMCID: PMC10943770 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-024-04665-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Predicting and finding the viral agents responsible for neonatal late-sepsis has always been challenging. METHOD In this cross-sectional study, which has been done from September 2020 to December 2022, 145 hospitalized neonates suspected to late-onset sepsis alongside routine sepsis workup, were also evaluated for severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV-2) infection, by nasopharyngeal real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or serological tests. RESULT 145 neonates including 81 girls and 64 boys with a mean age of 12.3 ± 5.9 days and an average hospitalization stay of 23.1 ± 15.4 days were enrolled in the study. While 76.6% of them had negative bacterial culture, 63 patients (43.4%) showed evidence of SARS-COV-2 infection in RT-PCR or serology tests. None of the underlying factors including gender, age, and laboratory investigation had a significant relationship with SARS-COV-2 infection. Similarly, the outcomes of death and length of hospitalization were not different between the two groups with positive and negative SARS-COV-2 RT-PCR (P < 0.05). There was only a significant relationship between radiological changes including reticulonodular pattern, consolidation, pleural effusion, and different types of infiltrations and SARS-COV2 infection. CONCLUSION Considering the widespread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in newborns, it seems logical to investigate the SARS-COV-2 infection in late-sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Jamali
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Najmeh Mohammadpour
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Afzalipour Hospital, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Reza Sinaei
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Maedeh Jafari
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sabzevari
- Department of Pediatrics, Afzalipour Hospital, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasannejad
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Bam University of Medical Sciences, Bam, Iran
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Bellini T, Brisca G, Orfanos I, Mariani M, Pezzotta F, Giordano B, Pastorino A, Misley S, Formigoni C, Fueri E, Ferretti M, Marin M, Finetti M, Piccotti E, Castagnola E, Moscatelli A. Clinical Course, Laboratory Findings, and Prognosis of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Infants up to 90 Days of Age: A Single-Center Experience and a Proposal for a Management Pathway. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:528. [PMID: 38470638 PMCID: PMC10931066 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12050528] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM To provide a comprehensive description of the clinical features, biochemical characteristics, and outcomes of infants up to 90 days old with COVID-19. Moreover, to assess the severity of the disease and propose an effective management pathway. METHODS Retrospective single-center study spanning three years. Patient data includes age, sex, symptoms, comorbidities, blood and urine test results, cultures, admission, length of stay, therapies, intensive care unit admission, and mortality. RESULTS A total of 274 patients were enrolled in the study, comprising 55% males. Among them, 60 patients (22%) were under the age of 29 days, while 214 (78%) fell within the 29 to 90 days age range. The overall incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections was 0.28 per 10,000 Pediatric Emergency Department admissions. Blood inflammatory markers showed no significant abnormalities, and there were no recorded instances of positive blood cultures. Less than 1% of infants showed urinary tract infections with positive urine cultures, and 1.5% of patients had a concurrent RSV infection. Hospitalization rates were 83% for neonates and 67% for infants, with a median length of stay (LOS) of 48 h for both age groups. None of the patients required admission to the Pediatric or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and only one required High Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC). No secondary serious bacterial infections were observed, and all hospitalized patients were discharged without short-term sequelae. No deaths were reported. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Infants with COVID-19 generally exhibit milder or asymptomatic forms of the disease, making home management a viable option in most cases. Blood tests, indicative of a mild inflammatory response, are recommended primarily for children showing symptoms of illness. Hospitalization precautions for infants without apparent illness or comorbidities are deemed unnecessary. Given the evolving nature of experiences with COVID-19 in infants, maintaining a high level of clinical suspicion remains imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Bellini
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit, Emergency Department, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (M.F.); (M.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Giacomo Brisca
- Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Department, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (G.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Ioannis Orfanos
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22100 Lund, Sweden;
- Department of Pediatrics, Skåne University Hospital, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| | - Marcello Mariani
- Infectious Diseases Unit and COVID Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy (E.C.)
| | - Federico Pezzotta
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (B.G.); (A.P.); (S.M.); (C.F.); (E.F.)
| | - Benedetta Giordano
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (B.G.); (A.P.); (S.M.); (C.F.); (E.F.)
| | - Andrea Pastorino
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (B.G.); (A.P.); (S.M.); (C.F.); (E.F.)
| | - Silvia Misley
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (B.G.); (A.P.); (S.M.); (C.F.); (E.F.)
| | - Clelia Formigoni
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (B.G.); (A.P.); (S.M.); (C.F.); (E.F.)
| | - Elena Fueri
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (B.G.); (A.P.); (S.M.); (C.F.); (E.F.)
| | - Marta Ferretti
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit, Emergency Department, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (M.F.); (M.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Marta Marin
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit, Emergency Department, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (M.F.); (M.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Martina Finetti
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit, Emergency Department, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (M.F.); (M.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Emanuela Piccotti
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit, Emergency Department, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (M.F.); (M.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Elio Castagnola
- Infectious Diseases Unit and COVID Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy (E.C.)
| | - Andrea Moscatelli
- Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Department, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (G.B.); (A.M.)
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Stoicescu ER, Iacob R, Ilie AC, Iacob ER, Susa SR, Ghenciu LA, Constantinescu A, Cocolea DM, Ciornei-Hoffman A, Oancea C, Manolescu DL. Stratifying Disease Severity in Pediatric COVID-19: A Correlative Study of Serum Biomarkers and Lung Ultrasound-A Retrospective Observational Dual-Center Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:440. [PMID: 38396479 PMCID: PMC10888450 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14040440] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has manifested distinct impacts on infants and children. This study delves into the intricate connection between lung ultrasound (LUS) findings and serum biomarkers in neonates and infants with COVID-19. Exploring factors contributing to the mild symptoms in this demographic, including immune responses and pre-existing immunity, the study spans 3 years and 9 months, involving 42 patients. Respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms predominate, and LUS emerges as a vital, non-irradiating tool for evaluating pulmonary abnormalities. Serum biomarkers like CRP, procalcitonin, and cytokines provide key insights into the pathophysiology. Correlations reveal nuanced links between LUS score and clinical parameters, unveiling associations with hospitalization duration (rho = 0.49), oxygen saturation (rho = -0.88), and inflammatory markers, like ferritin (rho = 0.62), LDH (rho = 0.73), and D-dimer (rho = 0.73) with significance level (p < 0.05). The absence of large consolidations in LUS suggests unique pulmonary characteristics. The novelty of these findings lies in the comprehensive integration of LUS with serum biomarkers to assess and monitor the severity of lung involvement in neonates and infants affected by SARS-CoV-2. This approach offers valuable insights into disease severity, biomarker levels, the duration of hospitalization, and oxygen saturation, providing a multifaceted understanding of COVID-19's impact on this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Robert Stoicescu
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (E.R.S.); (D.L.M.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Faculty of Mechanics, Field of Applied Engineering Sciences, Specialization Statistical Methods and Techniques in Health and Clinical Research, ‘Politehnica’ University Timisoara, Mihai Viteazul Boulevard No. 1, 300222 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Iacob
- Faculty of Mechanics, Field of Applied Engineering Sciences, Specialization Statistical Methods and Techniques in Health and Clinical Research, ‘Politehnica’ University Timisoara, Mihai Viteazul Boulevard No. 1, 300222 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Anatomy and Embriology, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- IOSUD/Ph.D. School, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.R.S.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Adrian Cosmin Ilie
- Department III Functional Sciences, Division of Public Health and Management, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Emil Radu Iacob
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Septimiu Radu Susa
- IOSUD/Ph.D. School, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.R.S.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Laura Andreea Ghenciu
- Department of Functional Sciences, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Amalia Constantinescu
- IOSUD/Ph.D. School, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.R.S.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Daiana Marina Cocolea
- IOSUD/Ph.D. School, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.R.S.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Andreea Ciornei-Hoffman
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Morphological Sciences, ‘Iuliu Hatieganu’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cristian Oancea
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), ‘Victor Babeș’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Department of Pulmonology, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Diana Luminita Manolescu
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (E.R.S.); (D.L.M.)
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), ‘Victor Babeș’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
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Stoicescu ER, Iacob R, Iacob ER, Ghenciu LA, Oancea C, Manolescu DL. Tiny Lungs, Big Differences: Navigating the Varied COVID-19 Landscape in Neonates vs. Infants via Biomarkers and Lung Ultrasound. Biomedicines 2024; 12:425. [PMID: 38398027 PMCID: PMC10886952 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020425] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to their susceptibilities, neonates and infants face unique SARS-CoV-2 challenges. This retrospective study will compare the illness course, symptoms, biomarkers, and lung damage in neonates and infants with SARS-CoV-2 infection from February 2020 to October 2023. This study was conducted at two hospitals in Timisoara, Romania, using real-time multiplex PCR to diagnose and lung ultrasonography (LUS) to assess lung involvement. Neonates had a more severe clinical presentation, an increased immune response, and greater lung involvement. Neonates had more PCR-positive tests (p = 0.0089) and longer hospital stays (p = 0.0002). In neonates, LDH, CRP, and ferritin levels were higher, indicating a stronger inflammatory response. Reduced oxygen saturation in neonates indicates respiratory dysfunction. The symptoms were varied. Infants had fever, cough, and rhinorrhea, while neonates had psychomotor agitation, acute dehydration syndrome, and candidiasis. This study emphasizes individualized care and close monitoring for neonatal SARS-CoV-2 infections. Newborn lung ultrasonography showed different variances and severity levels, emphasizing the need for targeted surveillance and therapy. Newborns have high lung ultrasound scores (LUSS), indicating significant lung involvement. Both groups had initial lung involvement, but understanding these modest differences is crucial to improving care for these vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Robert Stoicescu
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (E.R.S.); (D.L.M.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Field of Applied Engineering Sciences, Specialization Statistical Methods and Techniques in Health and Clinical Research, Faculty of Mechanics, ‘Politehnica’ University Timisoara, Mihai Viteazul Boulevard No. 1, 300222 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Iacob
- Field of Applied Engineering Sciences, Specialization Statistical Methods and Techniques in Health and Clinical Research, Faculty of Mechanics, ‘Politehnica’ University Timisoara, Mihai Viteazul Boulevard No. 1, 300222 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Anatomy and Embriology, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Emil Radu Iacob
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Laura Andreea Ghenciu
- Department of Functional Sciences, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Cristian Oancea
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Pulmonology, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Diana Luminita Manolescu
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (E.R.S.); (D.L.M.)
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
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Abstract
Neonatal late-onset sepsis (LOS) continues to threaten morbidity and mortality in the NICU and poses ongoing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Early recognition of clinical signs, rapid evaluation, and prompt initiation of treatment are critical to prevent life-threatening deterioration. Preterm infants-born at ever-decreasing gestational ages-are at particularly high risk for life-long morbidities and death. This changing NICU population necessitates continual reassessments of diagnostic and preventive measures and evidence-based treatment for LOS. The clinical presentation of LOS is varied and nonspecific. Despite ongoing research, reliable, specific laboratory biomarkers facilitating early diagnosis are lacking. These limitations drive an ongoing practice of liberal initiation of empiric antibiotics among infants with suspected LOS. Subsequent promotion of multidrug-resistant microorganisms threatens the future of antimicrobial therapy and puts preterm and chronically ill infants at even higher risk of nosocomial infection. Efforts to identify adjunctive therapies counteracting sepsis-driven hyperinflammation and sepsis-related functional immunosuppression are ongoing. However, most approaches have either failed to improve LOS prognosis or are not yet ready for clinical application. This article provides an overview of the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic tools, and treatment options of LOS in the context of increasing numbers of extremely preterm infants. It addresses the question of whether LOS could be identified earlier and more precisely to allow for earlier and more targeted therapy and discusses rational approaches to antibiotic therapy to avoid overuse. Finally, this review elucidates the necessity of long-term follow-up of infants with a history of LOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Coggins
- Division of Neonatology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kirsten Glaser
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
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A systematic review and meta-analysis of otorhinolaryngological manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 in paediatric patients. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2022; 136:588-603. [PMID: 35172911 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215122000536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This meta-analysis provides a quantitative measure of the otorhinolaryngological manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 in children. METHODS A structured literature review was carried out using PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central, employing pertinent search terms. The statistical analysis was performed using Stata version 14.2 software, and the analysed data were expressed as the pooled prevalence of the symptoms with 95 per cent confidence intervals. RESULTS The commonest symptoms noted were cough (38 per cent (95 per cent confidence interval = 33-42; I2 = 97.5 per cent)), sore throat (12 per cent (95 per cent confidence interval =10-14; I2 = 93.7 per cent)), and nasal discharge (15 per cent (95 per cent confidence interval = 12-19; I2 = 96.9 per cent)). Anosmia and taste disturbances showed a pooled prevalence of 8 per cent each. Hearing loss, vertigo and hoarseness were rarely reported. CONCLUSION Cough, sore throat and nasal discharge were the commonest otorhinolaryngological symptoms in paediatric patients with coronavirus disease 2019. Compared with adults, anosmia and taste disturbances were infrequently reported in children.
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Guner Ozenen G, Sahbudak Bal Z, Bilen NM, Yildirim Arslan S, Ak G, Koc G, Cicek C, Kurugol Z, Ozkinay F. Clinical and Laboratory Findings of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Children Younger than 6 Months Old: Neutropenia is More Common Not Lymphopenia. J Trop Pediatr 2022; 68:6591216. [PMID: 35608318 PMCID: PMC9213872 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmac041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies on age-related differences in clinical and laboratory features of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection are limited. We aimed to evaluate the demographic, clinical, laboratory findings of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children younger than 6 months old and compare them with older children. METHODS A single-center retrospective study, including 209 confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection cases, was conducted between 11 March 2020 and 1 September 2021. The case group consisted of 47 patients younger than 6 months old, whereas the control group consisted of 162 patients older than 6 months old. RESULTS The mean age of the case group was 2.77 ± 1.52 months, and the control group was 101.89 ± 65.77 months. Cough was statistically higher in the control group, and poor feeding was higher in the case group (p = 0.043, 0.010). The underlying disease rate was statistically higher in the control group; however, the hospitalization rate was higher in the case group (p = 0.036, 0.001). The case group had significantly lower median values of the absolute neutrophil count, hemoglobin and higher median values of white blood cell, absolute lymphocyte count and platelet than the control group (p < 0.05). C-reactive protein, fibrinogen values were significantly lower, and procalcitonin, D-dimer, troponin T, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide significantly higher in the case group (p < 0.05). Lymphopenia was more common in the control group, whereas neutropenia was more common in the case group (p = 0.001, 0.011). CONCLUSIONS We showed that most children younger than 6 months old had mild and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, the hospitalization rate was higher, and neutropenia was more common in older children. Lay summaryStudies on age-related differences in clinical and laboratory features on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in pediatric patients are limited. We aimed to evaluate the demographic, clinical and laboratory findings of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children younger than 6 months old and compare them with older children. A single-center retrospective study was conducted, including 209 SARS-CoV-2 infection cases. The case group consisted of 47 patients younger than 6 months old, and the control group consisted of 162 patients older than 6 months old. Most children younger than 6 months old had mild and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, the hospitalization rate was higher than older children. Neutropenia was more common in patients younger than 6 months than older children with SARS-CoV-2 infection, even if underlying diseases were excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gizem Guner Ozenen
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Zumrut Sahbudak Bal
- Correspondence: Zumrut Sahbudak Bal, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Bornova/Izmir 35100, Turkey. Tel: +905054423192. Fax: +902323889900. E-mail <>
| | - Nimet Melis Bilen
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Sema Yildirim Arslan
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Gunes Ak
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Gonca Koc
- Department of Radiology, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Candan Cicek
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Zafer Kurugol
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Ferda Ozkinay
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School of Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
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Bellini T, Rotulo GA, Caruggi S, Carta S, Bonato I, Piccotti E. Characteristics of COVID-19 patients up to 6 months of age admitted to a paediatric emergency department. Acta Paediatr 2022; 111:272-274. [PMID: 34704279 PMCID: PMC8653029 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Very young age could be a potential risk factor for community-acquired severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, due to immature immune systems. We retrospectively enrolled 39 infants up to 6 months of age who had presented to our tertiary Italian children's hospital emergency room between 9 March 2020 and 8 March 2021 and tested positive for the virus. Of those, 38 had a non-specific mild or asymptomatic clinical course and only one patient was admitted to intensive care with severe symptoms. We concluded that very young infants with COVID-19 had a generally favourable disease course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Bellini
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit Giannina Gaslini Children HospitalIRCCS Genoa Italy
| | - Gioacchino Andrea Rotulo
- Clinical and Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology Academic Department of Pediatrics (DPUO) Bambino Gesù Children HospitalIRCCS Rome Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI) University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Samuele Caruggi
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit Giannina Gaslini Children HospitalIRCCS Genoa Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI) University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Sabina Carta
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit Giannina Gaslini Children HospitalIRCCS Genoa Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI) University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Irene Bonato
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit Giannina Gaslini Children HospitalIRCCS Genoa Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI) University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Emanuela Piccotti
- Pediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine Unit Giannina Gaslini Children HospitalIRCCS Genoa Italy
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Scholz AS, Wallwiener S, Pöschl J, Kuss N. Case Report: Prolonged Neutropenia in Premature Monoamniotic Twins With SARS-CoV-2 Infection Acquired by Vertical Transmission. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:877954. [PMID: 35547554 PMCID: PMC9083221 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.877954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vertical transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is a highly debated topic in the current pandemic situation. Early neonatal SARS-CoV-2 infection is rare and generally mild. Long-term data describing symptoms after COVID-19 in premature neonates is scarce. CASE PRESENTATION Two premature, monoamniotic neonates were born by cesarean section to a mother 5 days after onset of symptomatic COVID-19. On day three of life both neonates developed hyperthermia, respiratory distress, and hematological changes, of which neutropenia persisted for over 40 days. Nasopharyngeal swabs for SARS-CoV-2 turned positive four days after delivery although the neonates were strictly isolated. Both neonates showed nearly identical time courses of ct values. CONCLUSION Our case report revealed prolonged low absolute neutrophil counts in two preterm neonates with symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection that is reasonably assumed to have been transmitted vertically in utero. After preterm delivery to a SARS-CoV-2 positive mother, testing for SARS-CoV-2 infection in neonates is crucial. Both neutropenia and lymphopenia should alert physicians to test for SARS-CoV-2 infection and also to follow the case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna S Scholz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephanie Wallwiener
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johannes Pöschl
- Department of Neonatology, University Children's Hospital, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Navina Kuss
- Department of Neonatology, University Children's Hospital, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Pullen KM, Atyeo C, Collier ARY, Gray KJ, Belfort MB, Lauffenburger DA, Edlow AG, Alter G. Selective functional antibody transfer into the breastmilk after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109959. [PMID: 34739850 PMCID: PMC8531199 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibody transfer via breastmilk represents an evolutionary strategy to boost immunity in early life. Although severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-specific antibodies have been observed in the breastmilk, the functional quality of these antibodies remains unclear. Here, we apply systems serology to characterize SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies in maternal serum and breastmilk to compare the functional characteristics of antibodies in these fluids. Distinct SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody responses are observed in the serum and breastmilk of lactating individuals previously infected with SARS-CoV-2, with a more dominant transfer of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and IgM into breastmilk. Although IgGs are present in breastmilk, they are functionally attenuated. We observe preferential transfer of antibodies capable of eliciting neutrophil phagocytosis and neutralization compared to other functions, pointing to selective transfer of certain functional antibodies to breastmilk. These data highlight the preferential transfer of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgA and IgM to breastmilk, accompanied by select IgG subpopulations, positioned to create a non-pathologic but protective barrier against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista M Pullen
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Caroline Atyeo
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; PhD Program in Virology, Division of Medical Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ai-Ris Y Collier
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kathryn J Gray
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mandy B Belfort
- Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Douglas A Lauffenburger
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Andrea G Edlow
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Galit Alter
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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12
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Kallimath A, Garegrat R, Patnaik S, Suryawanshi P. Shock and dyselectrolytemia in a neonate with late-onset COVID-19 infection. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:14/9/e246100. [PMID: 34521745 PMCID: PMC8442052 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-246100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Most reports of COVID-19 in neonates suggest that they are infected postnatally and present with gastrointestinal or respiratory symptoms. We describe a neonate who had community-acquired COVID-19, and presented with late-onset sepsis and developed dyselectrolytemia. The 26-day-old male baby had fever, feed refusal and shock. Rapid antigen test for SARS-CoV-2 by nasopharyngeal swab was positive and levels of circulating inflammatory markers were high. The baby was supported with antibiotics, and inotropic and vasopressor drugs. He had seizures and bradycardia due to dyselectrolytemia on day 2 of admission. On day 3, he had respiratory distress, with non-specific chest radiographic findings, and was managed with non-invasive support for 24 hours. The baby was discharged after 8 days. On serial follow-up, he was breastfeeding well and gaining weight appropriately with no morbidity. Our report highlights a unique presentation of COVID-19, with late-onset infection and shock-like features along with dyselectrolytemia and seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya Kallimath
- Department of Neonatology, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | | | | | - Pradeep Suryawanshi
- Department of Neonatology, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Göktuğ A, Güngör A, Öz FN, Akelma Z, Güneylioğlu MM, Yaradılmış RM, Bodur İ, Öztürk B, Tekeli A, Karacan CD, Tuygun N. Evaluation of Epidemiological, Demographic, Clinical Characteristics and Laboratory Findings of COVID-19 in the Pediatric Emergency Department. J Trop Pediatr 2021; 67:6362431. [PMID: 34471922 PMCID: PMC8499923 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmab066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiological, demographic, clinical characteristics and laboratory findings of pediatric COVID-19 patients. METHODS Patients with a positive COVID-19 nasopharyngeal polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test between 11 March 2020 and 31 December 2020 were evaluated. RESULTS During the study period, 3118 patients underwent PCR tests, and 621 of them (19.9%) were positive. Of the patients with a positive test result, 335 were male (53.9%), the median age was 11 years. There were 308 (49.6%) patients that had a history of household exposure. The mean time between the onset of the patients complaints and the diagnosis was 1.88 ± 1.16 days. The most common symptoms were: fever (n = 424), cough (n = 419) and nasal symptoms (n = 157); loss of smell (3.5%) and taste (4.3%) were other symptoms observed in only patients aged 10 years or older. The most common abnormal laboratory finding was lymphopenia (n = 29, 36.7%). Of the 621 patients, the vast majority (n = 546, 87.9%) were classified as mild COVID-19 disease. There was a significant relationship between disease severity and age and comorbidity (p = 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). Only 34 patients (5.5%) were admitted to hospital, and two patients were followed-up with a diagnosis of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. The mortality rate was 0.32%. CONCLUSION COVID-19 can cause different symptoms in children. Although the disease generally causes a mild clinic presentation, it should be kept in mind that it may be more severe especially in children with comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aytaç Göktuğ
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
- Correspondence: Aytaç Göktuğ, Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey. E-mail:
| | - Ali Güngör
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Fatma Nur Öz
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zülfikar Akelma
- Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Muhammed Mustafa Güneylioğlu
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Raziye Merve Yaradılmış
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - İlknur Bodur
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Betül Öztürk
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aysun Tekeli
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Can Demir Karacan
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nilden Tuygun
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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