POST-COVID-19 SYNDROME IN THE PEDIATRIC POPULATION: PERSISTENTE SYMPTOMATIC MANIFESTATIONS

Abstract

Long COVID is a multifaceted condition that may arise after infection with SARS-CoV-2, regardless of the initial severity, and has attracted increasing attention in the pediatric population. Although most children experience asymptomatic or mild disease, a subset develops persistent manifestations involving multiple organ systems, requiring prolonged follow-up. This study aimed to analyze the scientific evidence regarding persistent symptoms of COVID-19 in children, distinguishing them from Pediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (PMIS), an acute and hyperinflammatory condition associated with viral infection. A qualitative literature review was conducted, with searches performed in the PubMed and Virtual Health Library databases, including articles published in the last five years in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. The findings indicated a predominance of respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological, and cutaneous symptoms, with a higher risk of unfavorable outcomes in children with comorbidities such as obesity and chronic diseases. PMIS showed an abrupt course and well-defined diagnostic criteria, whereas long COVID presented a more insidious progression. Evidence also suggested that vaccination plays a protective role in reducing severe cases and persistent symptoms. It is concluded that early recognition and longitudinal follow-up are essential to minimize long-term impacts on pediatric health.