Scientific Reports · 8 authors, 4 centres
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This study analyzed red blood cell characteristics in 121 children and adolescents and found that those with past SARS-CoV-2 infection had significantly increased red blood cell deformation for up to 6 months after infection compared to uninfected peers.
This cross-sectional study analyzed full blood samples from 121 secondary school students to compare red blood cell (RBC) deformation and area between SARS-CoV-2 seropositive and seronegative children and adolescents. Using real-time deformability-cytometry, the researchers found median RBC deformation was significantly increased in seropositive participants compared to seronegative ones, after controlling for age and gender. No difference in median RBC area was detected between groups. A subanalysis showed the increased deformation was only present when the infection dated back less than 6 months, returning to seronegative levels thereafter. The findings suggest increased RBC deformation may be a compensatory mechanism during mild pediatric COVID-19. Limitations include the heterogeneity of participants regarding time since seroconversion and the cross-sectional design, which prevents establishing causality or a specific time course.
