Electrocardiographic Changes in Children with Multisystem Inflammation Associated with COVID-19

Objective To analyze findings and trends on serial electrocardiograms (ECGs) in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with coronavirus disease taken during the course of illness and at follow-up. Study design We included all children presenting with MIS-C at a single center with 3 or more ECGs taken during the course of their illness. We measured ECG intervals (PR, QRSd, and QTc) and amplitudes (R-, S-, and T-waves) on each ECG and documented any arrhythmias and ST-segment changes. Results A majority of children (n = 42, 67%) showed ECG changes. The most common findings were low QRS amplitudes and transient T-wave inversion. ST changes were uncommon and included ST-segment elevation consistent with pericarditis in 1 child and acute coronary ischemia in 1 child. Arrhythmias were seen in 13 children (21%) but were benign with the exception of 1 child who was compromised by an atrial tachycardia requiring support with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. No children were found to have high-grade atrioventricular block. Conclusions MIS-C is associated with electrocardiographic changes over the course of the illness, with low amplitude ECGs on presentation, followed by transient T-wave inversion, particularly in the precordial leads. There was a low prevalence of ST-segment changes and tachyarrhythmias.

Automated summary

Serial electrocardiograms in children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome associated with coronavirus disease showed ECG changes, including low QRS amplitudes and transient T-wave inversion. ST-segment changes and tachyarrhythmias were uncommon in this study.