Ground-breaking collaboration to study new condition caused by COVID-19 begins

Clinicians and researchers from hospitals and universities across London are working together to learn more about the impact of a serious condition associated with COVID-19 in children thanks to a grant from the Charity.

Experts will look at the neurological and psychological effects of a condition caused by Coronavirus called paediatric inflammatory multi-system syndrome (PIMS-TS).

We’re joining Imperial Health Charity and Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) Charity in a first-of-its-kind funding partnership that will help researchers and clinicians from Great Ormond Street Hospital, St Mary’s Hospital and Evelina London Children’s Hospital gather crucial information about the progression of PIMS-TS and its long-term impact on children.

While it’s rare for children to experience severe symptoms from COVID-19, a small number who are infected with the virus have gone on to develop PIMS-TS - which can be life-threatening and may require intensive care in hospital.

“We look forward to continuing the collaborative approach across universities and hospitals that was fostered at the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic.” - Dr Ming Lim, Paediatric Neurology Consultant at Evelina London Children’s Hospital

Around 150 children have been treated for PIMS-TS by clinical teams at GOSH, Evelina London and St Mary’s and a further 300 children around the UK are thought to have been affected by the condition. Doctors have reported that many children develop symptoms including headaches, confusion and muscle weakness.

The London-wide team will use detailed imaging to measure the effects of inflammation on brain growth and cognitive development, developing a broader understanding of the condition and optimising treatment for children with it.

Dr Ming Lim, Paediatric Neurology Consultant at Evelina London Children’s Hospital said: “We look forward to continuing the collaborative approach across universities and hospitals that was fostered at the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic.”

Ground-breaking research like this is made possible through the generous support of donors. Find out more about how our charitable funding helps improve care, the patient experience and staff welfare at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.

The funding for this project is part of our work to help the Trust respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.