Use of broad-spectrum antibiotics in children diagnosed with multisystem inflammatory syndrome temporarily associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in Poland: the MOIS-CoR study

Objectives Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is the result of an immune response triggered by a previous exposure to SARS-CoV-2. The clinical presentation of MIS-C overlaps with other life-threatening bacterial infections, in which antimicrobials are the mainstay therapy. The aim of study was to describe the use of antibiotics in children with MIS-C in Poland. Methods The analysis of 345 children reported from 42 Polish cities to the national MultiOrgan Inflammatory Syndromes COVID-19 Related Study (MOIS-CoR Study) from June 2020 to April 2021. Results At least one antibiotic was used in 310 (90%) children, mainly third-generation cephalosporin (251/310). Broad-spectrum antibiotics were used in 258 (75%) children and 224 (87%) received this treatment for more than 3 days. Concentrations of serum procalcitonin >2 µg/l and the presence of lower respiratory symptoms were associated with increased odds of receiving any antibiotic. Conclusion Although bacterial infections in patients with MIS-C are uncommon, we show that MIS-C poses a challenge to clinicians who are faced with the decision to start, continue, or stop antimicrobial therapy. Antibiotic stewardship in patients with MIS-C should be improved to ensure that likely pathogens are treated and that antimicrobials are stopped when bacterial infections are excluded and the diagnosis of MIS-C is made.