Antonija Vukovic Novogradec

Dr. Antonija Vukovic Novogradec

School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Splitsko-Dalmatinska Županija, Croatia
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Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

4Years (2023-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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1 March 2023 in Life
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
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DPDavor Petrovic
Davor Petrovic
BBBenjamin Benzon
Benjamin Benzon
SSSasa Srsen
Sasa Srsen
BPBranka Polic
Branka Polic
ANAntonija Vukovic Novogradec
Antonija Vukovic Novogradec
Josko MarkicJosko Markic
Josko Markic
Background: Hyperinflammatory response that resembles Kawasaki disease may develop in children after COVID-19 disease, and it is called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. The cause of MIS-C is dysregulated innate immune response and a subsequent cytokine storm that results in endothelial damage. It has been determined that low levels of serum 25(OH)D increase the risk of developing immune-related diseases and disorders. Methods: To determine the incidence of hypovitaminosis D, and a possible correlation between 25(OH)D levels and the clinical severity of MIS-C, 21 patients hospitalized in the University Hospital of Split due to MIS-C were evaluated. Results: Hypovitaminosis D was detected in 95% of MIS-C patients. We found a significant relationship between the severity of MIS-C and 25(OH)D levels, as patients with more severe MIS-C had lower 25(OH)D. MIS-C patients with lower vitamin D levels had worse systolic and diastolic function of the left ventricle according to echocardiograms. There was no relationship between 25(OH)D levels and the tested laboratory inflammatory and cardiac markers. Conclusion: Hypovitaminosis D is very common in children with MIS-C and influences the severity of the disease. VD could be a new potential biomarker in MIS-C, and VD replacement therapy should be considered early on in the treatment of MIS-C.