Diagnostics (Jun 2023)

Long COVID in Children: A Multidisciplinary Review

  • Francesco Sansone,
  • Giulia Michela Pellegrino,
  • Antonio Caronni,
  • Federica Bonazza,
  • Elena Vegni,
  • Alberto Lué,
  • Tommaso Bocci,
  • Carlotta Pipolo,
  • Giuliano Giusti,
  • Paola Di Filippo,
  • Sabrina Di Pillo,
  • Francesco Chiarelli,
  • Giuseppe Francesco Sferrazza Papa,
  • Marina Attanasi

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics13121990
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 12
p. 1990

Abstract

Read online

Long COVID syndrome has emerged as a long-lasting consequence of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection in adults. In addition, children may be affected by Long COVID, with potential clinical issues in different fields, including problems in school performance and daily activities. Yet, the pathophysiologic bases of Long COVID in children are largely unknown, and it is difficult to predict who will develop the syndrome. In this multidisciplinary clinical review, we summarise the latest scientific data regarding Long COVID and its impact on children. Special attention is given to diagnostic tests, in order to help the physicians to find potential disease markers and quantify impairment. Specifically, we assess the respiratory, upper airways, cardiac, neurologic and motor and psychological aspects. Finally, we also propose a multidisciplinary clinical approach.

Keywords