TITLE:
Diabetes during COVID-19 Pneumonia in a 16-Year-Old Girl: A Case Report in Cameroon
AUTHORS:
Ritha Mbono Betoko, Charlotte Eposse, Suzanne Sap, Betsy Bate, Gaelle Ntsoli, Hassanatou Iyawa, Calixte Ida Penda
KEYWORDS:
Covid-19, Diabetes, Adolescents
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Pediatrics,
Vol.14 No.4,
July
8,
2024
ABSTRACT: Background: Diabetes is a known risk factor for susceptibility and severity of COVID-19 infection. It may also be a complication of COVID-19. Many hypotheses have been proposed to explain this condition. It may be due to the effect of SARS-CoV-2 on β cells or drug-related side effects. In children, there is a paucity of data on the burden of this complication. Objective: We aimed to report a case of secondary diabetes during COVID-19 in a pediatric unit. Case Presentation: A 16-year-old girl presented with severe respiratory distress. She was treated for COVID-19 infection with antibiotics and corticosteroids. On day 6 of treatment, she developed polyuria and polydipsia. A random blood glucose test showed hyperglycaemia. The diagnosis of secondary diabetes was maintained. Conclusion: Covid-19 infection can be complicated by diabetes in children. It is essential to monitor blood glucose levels regularly.