Overview of Kawasaki Disease

Kawasaki Disease is a rare but serious inflammatory condition that primarily affects children under the age of 5. It causes inflammation in the walls of medium-sized arteries throughout the body, especially the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. If not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can lead to long-term heart complications. The disease often presents with persistent fever, rash and swelling in various parts of the body, and its exact cause remains unknown.

Types of Kawasaki Disease

1. Typical (Classic) Kawasaki Disease: Involves all the characteristic symptoms including fever, rash, and mucosal inflammation.

2. Incomplete Kawasaki Disease: Not all classic symptoms are present, making diagnosis more challenging, especially in infants.

Symptoms of Kawasaki Disease

Persistent fever lasting more than 5 days

Red, bloodshot eyes without discharge

Rash on the torso and genital area

Red, cracked lips and a “strawberry” tongue

Swelling and redness in hands and feet

Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck

Peeling skin on hands and feet (usually in later stages)

Causes of Kawasaki Disease

Exact cause remains unknown

Likely linked to an abnormal immune response

Possible triggers include viral or bacterial infections

Genetic predisposition suspected in some cases

Complications in Kawasaki Disease

Inflammation of coronary arteries (can lead to aneurysms)

Myocarditis (inflammation of heart muscle)

Pericarditis (inflammation of heart’s lining)

Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)

Heart valve problems

Long-term risk of heart disease if untreated

Risk Factors of Kawasaki Disease

• Age: Most common in children under 5
• Gender: Boys are slightly more affected than girls
• Ethnicity: Higher prevalence in children of Asian or Pacific Islander descent
• Season: More frequent in winter and early spring
• Family history: Rare but possible increased risk in siblings

Preventions of Kawasaki Disease

No guaranteed way to prevent Kawasaki Disease

Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications

Regular follow-up with pediatric cardiologist post-recovery

Awareness of symptoms helps parents seek timely care