We’re still trying to understand COVID-19, and it may take us years and years to fully comprehend the respiratory virus. A recent case study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal aimed to understand multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS) and its connection to COVID-19. Prior research has linked this rare condition to children who have contracted the virus (MIS-C), and recent research now connects it to adults (MIS-A).
About the Case Report
The case is that of a 60-year-old Canadian man, who was hospitalized after complaining of high fever, prolonged shortness of breath, severe fatigue, and swelling. Upon admittance, doctors also found that he had swollen lungs and an enlarged heart. His chart revealed a positive COVID-19 test taken about four weeks before his visit, no known comorbidities, and no vaccination for the virus.
Upon reviewing his case, both pediatric and adult rheumatology teams decided that he met the criteria for MIS-A, despite the fact that the inflammatory condition almost exclusively impacts children. In addition, he met the criteria for a Kawasaki disease diagnosis.
Because MIS-A is so poorly understood, there is no current standard of care. In this case, doctors opted to treat the man with intravenous immunoglobulin, methylprednisolone, and acetylsalicylic acid. This course of therapy was successful, leading to significant improvement in his condition after just 24 hours. Five days after he was first admitted, he was discharged. This improvement continued at his two-week and six-week follow-up visits.
Looking Forward
More research needs to be done into multisystem inflammatory syndrome in regard to adult and pediatric cases. As of now, the CDC has received multiple reports of adults with MIS, with the majority of cases impacting those under the age of 50.
Although current data suggests that younger adults are more at risk of MIS-A, the CDC urges medical professionals to remember that this condition has no age; it can impact anyone. While it is not required, the federal organization also suggests that any cases of MIS-A are reported. This way, further research can be conducted, and a better understanding of the rare condition can be established.
Find the source article here.
