COVID-19 and the digestive system lesions in children

Initially, doctors did not pay much attention to gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with COVID-19. Fever and respiratory syndrome were monitored. A more prolonged observation period revealed gastrointestinal disorders to be an important element of the new coronavirus infection. In scientific publications, a stable term appeared - gastrointestinal coronavirus disease 2019. The tropism of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to the epitheliocytes of the gastrointestinal tract, the presence and long-term persistence of the virus in the feces were found. The frequent detection of gastrointestinal symptoms in infected patients, the frequent involvement of the liver and pancreas in the pathological process determine the importance of clinical and laboratory assessment of the state of the digestive system due to its undoubted impact on the status, course, and the overall disease prognosis. Based on the analysis of scientific publications, the article presents the results of the latest observations regarding the development of a new disease, its diagnosis, treatment options using modern drugs when combined with dyspeptic syndrome and other gastroenterological symptoms. The role of the use of standards, in particular the clinical recommendations of the Ministry of Health of Russia, is emphasized. Copyright © 2022 National Academy of Pediatric Science and Innovation. All rights reserved.

COVID-19: Lessons from pediatric science and practice

The pandemic of a new severe infection, announced by the World Health Organization last year, is still spreading. To a certain extent, the epidemic has affected the pediatric population. Children have not been left out of the spread of COVID-19, and this applies even to newborns. The lecture presents summary data on the results of clinical observations both in the Tushino Children's City Clinical Hospital in Moscow and scientific sources. A new disease is really new. This applies to its pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment tactics with the use of modern medicines. For the first time, pediatricians are faced with the incredible situation where adults are more severely affected than children. It was noted that due to the limited period and scarce observations, all recommendations existing at this stage are temporary and undoubtedly subject to clarification. Most information regarding the impact of COVID-19 on a child is in clinical trials and is en route to be introduced into pediatric practice.