Knowledge Probable cause of severe corona reaction in children discovered
Researchers have discovered the possible cause of a rare but severe inflammatory reaction in children following a coronavirus infection. It is linked to a different virus.
12.03.2025, 17:13
SDA
In rare cases, the severe inflammatory reaction Pims (Pediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome) can occur in children and adolescents several weeks after a coronavirus infection and can be life-threatening. According to the results of the study, the inflammatory shock is linked to the resurgence of another pathogen - the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
The Epstein-Barr virus is known as the causative agent of Pfeiffer's glandular fever. Even after an acute infection with the virus has been overcome, it is still present in the body, as study author Tilmann Kallinich, a pediatrician specializing in rheumatology at the Charité University Hospital in Berlin, explains.
Immune system too weak
The study, which was published in the specialist journal "The Lancet", shows that the children's immune system is weakened by the corona infection and can no longer fight the virus effectively. The dormant EBV can become active again and trigger a strong immune reaction.
The researchers found blood cells infected with EBV in around two thirds of the 145 children with Pims examined. There was no such evidence in children without Pims. In addition, the scientists discovered EBV-specific antibodies in 80 percent of the children with Pims.
Pims usually occurs four to eight weeks after a corona infection and manifests itself in high fever, skin rashes and heart problems, among other things. Around half of those affected end up in intensive care. According to researchers, the disease is easily treatable and most children make a full recovery.
