Postcovoid syndrome pediatrician’s practice

Introduction. The new coronavirus infection has left an indelible mark on the history of global and national healthcare. Many studies are currently based on the desire to define the consequences of the pandemic and be prepared for similar situations in the future.

Aim. To examine clinical laboratory features of the Post-acute COVID-19 Syndrome in children aged 7 to 18 years under the medical supervision of a district pediatrician.

Materials and methods. The study involved 120 children aged 7 to 18 years who had mild COVID-19 in 2021–2022. The study was divided into 2 groups: the main group (n = 29) – children with the post- COVID syndrome and the comparison group (n = 91) – children without post- COVID syndrome. A physical examination, functional, laboratory and special methods of examination were performed.

Results and discussion. Clinical aspects of post- COVID syndrome: asthenic reaction (manifested by fatigue and/or anxiety) – 24.14% and cognitive deterioration (decreased memory and academic decline) – 13.78%. Respiratory effects (lingering cough) were observed in 17.24%, prolonged subfebrile fever not associated with other diseases – 10.34%, exacerbation of chronic diseases, neuropsychiatric changes, cardiac disorders, dermatological consequences – 6.9%, renal dysfunctions and multi-systemic dysfunctions – 3.45%. Average values of IgG to Anti- SARS-CoV-2 is 6.5 IU/l (min 0.72 – max 13.3), above the average value in 58.6% of cases. IL-6 is elevated in 7% of cases in children with comorbidity and 3% with post- COVID manifestations. No increase in IL-4 and TNF-_α was detected. A correlation between the initial health status of the child and the post- COVID syndrome probability was defined. All children were under supervision for a year. Additional examinations and consultations with specialists were conducted. The treatment is expected, immunomodulatory, vitamin therapy.

Conclusions. This research showed that children who have a light disease may suffer post- COVID syndrome. When children have a medical check pediatricians can see the risks of post- COVID syndrome in them during the recovery phase.

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