Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adults After SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Summary
Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adults (MIS-A) is a rare but serious complication occurring several weeks after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. Characterised by fever, elevated inflammatory markers and variable involvement of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological and dermatological systems, MIS-A often presents with hypotension, cardiac dysfunction and multiorgan impairment in the absence of severe respiratory symptoms. Although the precise mechanisms remain under investigation, dysregulated immune activation, endothelial injury and microvascular thrombosis are thought to drive the syndrome. Early recognition is critical, as prompt treatment with immunomodulatory agents such as corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin can reverse organ dysfunction and reduce mortality. MIS-A has global significance, with cases reported across diverse populations, underscoring the need for heightened clinical awareness and standardised diagnostic criteria. Research continues to explore biomarkers for risk stratification and novel therapies to temper hyperinflammation while minimising treatment-related adverse effects.
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Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adults After SARS-CoV-2 Infection publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adults after sars-cov-2 infection across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Hyperinflammation: Excessive and uncontrolled immune response characterised by high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Cytokine storm: Severe form of hyperinflammation marked by rapid release of multiple cytokines leading to tissue damage.
Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA): Microvascular thrombosis causing organ ischaemia and haemolysis within small blood vessels.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG): Pooled antibodies administered intravenously to modulate immune responses.
Complement inhibition: Therapeutic blockade of the complement cascade to prevent immune-mediated tissue injury.
References
- Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adults Associated with Recent Infection with COVID-19. Diagnostics (2023).
- Clinical Characteristics of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adults. JAMA Network Open (2021).
- Case Report: Adult Post-COVID-19 Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome and Thrombotic Microangiopathy. Frontiers in Immunology (2021).
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