Isolated Hallucination as a Consequence of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in a 10-year-old Child

Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry. 2022 Jan;27(1):238-243. doi: 10.1177/13591045211061805. Epub 2021 Dec 22.

Abstract

Spectrum of childhood symptoms caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome-2) infection is widening. In contrast to adulthood, where psychiatric disorders caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection are widely known, recognition of such cases in childhood is still quite rare. Recurrent isolated hallucinations caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection in the absence of other neuropsychiatric symptoms are not yet described in this age group. SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed as a cause of recurrent isolated hallucinations in a 10-year-old child, which have most likely disappeared as a consequence of corticosteroid treatment. SARS-CoV-2 infection should also be considered in case of an otherwise healthy child with emerging psychiatric symptoms, which may be cured by corticosteroids.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2 infection; child; encephalitis; hallucination; psychiatry.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • COVID-19*
  • Child
  • Hallucinations
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders*
  • SARS-CoV-2