Pediatric lung transplantation for COVID-19: Unique clinical and psychosocial barriers

Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection in the age group of 0-17 years contributes to approximately 22% of all laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections. Fortunately, this age group has a lower death rate (0.5 per 100 000) that accounts for only 4% of the total deaths due to COVID-19. Despite the low mortality rate in the pediatric population, children of minority groups represented 78% of the deaths highlighting the existing disparities in access to health care.

Methods: With the emergence of the more contagious COVID-19 variants and the relatively slow pace of vaccination among the pediatric population, it is possible to see more cases of significant lung injury and potential for transplantation for the younger age group.

Results: To our knowledge, our patient is the youngest to have undergone lung transplantation for SARS-CoV-2.

Conclusion: The case presented unique challenges, particularly in relation to timing for listing and psychosocial support for parents who were his decision makers.