Emergency Myelopoiesis Distinguishes Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children From Pediatric Severe Coronavirus Disease 2019

Abstract Background Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a hyperinflammatory condition caused by recent infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, but the underlying immunological mechanisms driving this distinct syndrome are unknown. Methods We utilized high-dimensional flow cytometry, cell-free (cf) DNA, and cytokine and chemokine profiling to identify mechanisms of critical illness distinguishing MIS-C from severe acute coronavirus disease 2019 (SAC). Results Compared to SAC, MIS-C patients demonstrated profound innate immune cell death and features of emergency myelopoiesis (EM), an understudied phenomenon observed in severe inflammation. EM signatures were characterized by fewer mature myeloid cells in the periphery and decreased expression of HLA-DR and CD86 on antigen-presenting cells. Interleukin 27 (IL-27), a cytokine known to drive hematopoietic stem cells toward EM, was increased in MIS-C, and correlated with immature cell signatures in MIS-C. Upon recovery, EM signatures decreased and IL-27 plasma levels returned to normal levels. Despite profound lymphopenia, we report a lack of cfDNA released by adaptive immune cells and increased CCR7 expression on T cells indicative of egress out of peripheral blood. Conclusions Immune cell signatures of EM combined with elevated innate immune cell-derived cfDNA levels distinguish MIS-C from SAC in children and provide mechanistic insight into dysregulated immunity contributing toward MIS-C, offering potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Graphical Abstract Graphical Abstract This article explores underlying mechanisms of the multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and provides novel insights into T-cell and myeloid cell fates contributing to MIS-C pathology.