Author/Authors :
Abi Nassif, Tania Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine - American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon , Fakhri, Ghina Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine - American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon , Younis, Nour K Faculty of Medicine - American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon , Zareef, Rana Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine - American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon , Al Amin, Farah Division of Cardiology - Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine - American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon , Bitar, Fadi Division of Cardiology - Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine - American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon , Arabi, Mariam Division of Cardiology - Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine - American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
Abstract :
Background
SARS-CoV-2 is a new strain of the coronavirus family that emerged by the end of 2019 and led to the unpreceded COVID-19 pandemic. The virus affects multiple organs simultaneously and leads to a high rate of morbidity and mortality in all age groups. The cardiovascular system is one of the major affected organ systems. Various mechanisms including direct myocardial injury contribute to the cardiac manifestations of COVID-19 patients.
Methods
We performed a comprehensive and updated search on the cardiac manifestations of COVID-19. Our search included laboratory and imaging evaluations. In addition, we added a unique section on the effect of SARS-CoV-2 on the cardiovascular system in the pediatric population.
Results
COVID-19 might have an effect on the cardiovascular system at various levels leading to myocardial ischemia, arrhythmia, heart failure, myocarditis, and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. The incidence of cardiovascular complications varies among patients. This paper also provides a comprehensive summary of all the reported pediatric cases with cardiac manifestations.
Conclusion
Multidisciplinary teams are crucial for adequate management of patients with COVID-19 regardless of age. Timely diagnosis is critical in reducing mortality.
