Comparison of Clinical Features and Outcomes of Shocks in Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children Associated with COVID-19 (MIS-C), Septic Shock, and Cardiogenic Shock

Background: Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children associated with COVID-19 (MIS-C) is an inflammatory disorder that shares similarities with Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome. The majority of MIS-C patients exhibit cardiovascular abnormalities, with cardiogenic and vasodilatory shock occurring in 60% of cases. Objectives: To determine the differences between MIS-C shock, septic shock, and cardiogenic shock. Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted between January 2021 and December 2022. The study included children aged between 1 month and 15 years with MIS-C shock, septic shock, and cardiogenic shock. Patients’ medical records were reviewed, including clinical presentations, laboratory results, treatments, and outcomes. Results: The study included 60 patients: 13 (22%) with MIS-C shock, 33 (55%) with septic shock, and 14 (23%) with cardiogenic shock. Compared to septic shock and cardiogenic shock, MIS-C patients were more likely to present with a rash (P < 0.001). Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children shock patients had significantly lower lymphocyte counts (P = 0.001). Chest radiograph and echocardiography abnormalities were more common in MIS-C shock and cardiogenic shock patients than in septic shock patients (P = 0.004). USCOM results indicated that MIS-C shock patients displayed a combination of a decreased inotropic index and systemic Vascular Resistance Index. Conclusions: The most distinct clinical feature of MIS-C shock is a cutaneous manifestation combined with higher levels of inflammation and a decreased lymphocyte count, caused by vasodilation and myocardial dysfunction.