Understanding Kawasaki Disease

What is Kawasaki Disease?

Kawasaki disease is a rare inflammatory condition that primarily affects children under the age of 5. It causes inflammation in blood vessels throughout the body (vasculitis) and can affect multiple organ systems.

Key Symptoms

The disease typically progresses through phases with these characteristic symptoms:

Primary Symptoms (Acute Phase)

• High fever lasting 5+ days
• Rash on the trunk and groin
• Red, swollen hands and feet
• Red eyes (conjunctivitis) without discharge
• Swollen, red lips and tongue ("strawberry tongue")
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on:

• Clinical presentation
• Physical examination
• Laboratory tests
• Ruling out other conditions

Complications

Untreated Kawasaki disease can lead to:

• Coronary artery aneurysms
• Heart valve issues
• Myocarditis (heart muscle inflammation)
• Long-term cardiovascular complications

Treatment

Prompt treatment is essential and typically includes:

• Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
• High-dose aspirin
• Careful cardiac monitoring

Recovery and Follow-up

• Most children recover fully with timely treatment
• Regular cardiac follow-up is necessary
• Long-term monitoring may be required for those with cardiac complications

When to Seek Medical Care

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if your child has:

• Persistent high fever
• Multiple symptoms listed above
• Signs of cardiac distress

Prevention

• No known prevention methods
• Early recognition and treatment are crucial
• Genetic and environmental factors may play a role