767 - Calcium Levels is Pediatric Patients with SARS-COV-2 Infection and Disease Severity

Poster Number: 767
Publication Number: 767.416

Lisa Brandt, The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY, United States; Morri Markowitz, Montefiore Medical Center Pediatrics, Bronx, NY, United States

Background: Hypocalcemia has been identified in adults infected with SARS-CoV-2 and is associated with clinical outcomes. 

Objective: This study explores the relationship between total serum calcium levels and severity of disease in SARS-CoV-2 positive children.

Design/Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on children with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test who presented to the emergency department or were hospitalized at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM) from January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020.  Initial serum calcium levels were collected and compared with need for admission and intervention-based categories of disease severity.

Results: In this study, 7.8% of initial serum calcium levels were below reference values (8.5 - 10.5 mg/dL).  A greater frequency of moderate to severe illness scores were seen in children with an initial calcium of < 9.0 mg/dL compared with ≥9.0 mg/dL, 48% vs 5% respectively (p = 0.005).  A greater proportion of patients with a calcium < 9.0 mg/dL were admitted compared with a calcium of  ≥9.0 mg/dL, 85% vs 53% respectively (p = 0.005).

Conclusion(s): Serum calcium levels on presentation, even within the reference range, are associated with severity of disease and may be predictive of clinical outcomes in children with SARS-CoV-2.