Cerebrospinal fluid leakage after COVID-19: A pediatric case

Background

Various neurological and psychiatric symptoms have emerged after infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These symptoms include exercise intolerance such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and pain as well as cognitive and mood disorders (brain fog). Further, frequent autonomic disorders such as hypotension and hypothermia have been recognized in adults and children, many of whom have been diagnosed with orthostatic dysregulation (OD). Some children with OD have developed cerebrospinal fluid leakage (CFL).

Case Presentation

Herein, we describe the case of a boy aged 9 years and 9 months who presented with orthostatic headaches, dizziness, and nausea. He was diagnosed with CFL after SARS-CoV-2 infection when a spinal MRI revealed an incomplete floating dural sac sign in the thoracic and lumbar spine. An epidural saline injection was administered, and he was discharged after his symptoms improved.

Discussion/Conclusion

The causes of CFL include trauma due to accidents or sports, or are idiopathic due to unknown causes. However, the onset of CFL might involve COVID-19. Understanding the relationship between COVID-19 and CFL onset may lead to better treatment outcomes for children with apparent symptoms of OD, such as orthostatic headaches, dizziness, and nausea, after contracting COVID-19.