What is Kawasaki Disease?
Kawasaki disease is a rare but serious condition primarily affecting children under 5 years of age. It is a form of vasculitis — inflammation of blood vessels — that mainly affects medium-sized arteries, including the coronary arteries (the arteries supplying the heart). Without prompt treatment, Kawasaki disease can cause coronary artery aneurysms, which may lead to heart attack. It is the most common cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed countries.
Symptoms (Five Main Features)
A diagnosis of Kawasaki disease requires fever lasting 5 or more days plus four of the following five features:
- Rash — a widespread red rash on the body
- Red, cracked lips and a strawberry tongue
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck (cervical lymphadenopathy)
- Red, swollen hands and feet, sometimes with peeling of the skin
- Red, inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis) without discharge
Treatment
Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and high-dose aspirin is very effective when given early (within 10 days of fever onset). IVIG dramatically reduces the risk of coronary artery complications. Aspirin is later reduced to a low dose to prevent blood clots. Most children make a full recovery with timely treatment.
Long-term Follow-up
Children who develop coronary artery aneurysms require long-term cardiac follow-up. Those with no cardiac complications generally have an excellent prognosis. Early recognition and treatment are the most critical factors in preventing serious heart complications.