Convalescent plasma for pediatric patients with COVID-19 associated
acute respiratory distress syndrome
Abstract
There are no proven safe and effective therapies for children who
develop life-threatening complications of SARS-CoV-2. Convalescent
plasma (CP) has demonstrated potential benefit in adults with SARS-CoV-2
but has theoretical risks. We report on the first use of CP in children
with life-threatening COVID-19, providing data on four pediatric
patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. We measured donor
antibody levels and recipient antibody response prior to and following
CP infusion. Infusion of CP was not associated with antibody-dependent
enhancement (ADE) and did not suppress endogenous antibody response. We
found CP was safe and possibly efficacious. Randomized pediatric trials
are needed.