Disease
Kawasaki Disease
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
- Typical (Classic) Kawasaki Disease: Involves all the characteristic symptoms including fever, rash, and mucosal inflammation.
- 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
Diagnosis of Kawasaki Disease
- Based on clinical signs and symptoms
- Blood tests to check for inflammation
- Echocardiogram to assess heart function and artery condition
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect heart rhythm issues
- Urinalysis and imaging to rule out other conditions
Treatments of Kawasaki Disease
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): Mainstay of early treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent artery damage
- Aspirin therapy: Used in high doses initially to reduce fever and inflammation, then low-dose for heart protection
- Steroids or other anti-inflammatory drugs: For IVIG-resistant cases
- Close cardiac monitoring during acute and recovery phases
- Long-term follow-ups to ensure normal heart function
Prognosis of Kawasaki Disease
- Most children recover fully with early treatment
- Risk of heart complications decreases with timely care
- Some children may need long-term heart monitoring
- Lifelong cardiac care may be necessary in severe cases
- Recurrence is rare but possible
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Access to experienced pediatric cardiologists and Kawasaki disease specialists
- Advanced diagnostic facilities including pediatric echocardiography
- Personalised care plans from initial diagnosis to long-term follow-up
- Assistance with international medical travel and treatment coordination
- Dedicated support team for parents throughout the treatment journey
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- How quickly should we begin treatment for Kawasaki Disease?
- Is it safe for my child to take aspirin for an extended period?
- What are the warning signs of heart complications?
- Will my child need long-term follow-up with a cardiologist?
- Is there a risk of recurrence in the future?
- Can Kawasaki Disease affect growth or development?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear explanation of the diagnosis and next steps
- Guidance on medication dosage and follow-up schedules
- Transparency about potential risks and outcomes
- Emotional support and reassurance for parents
- Detailed instructions on when to seek emergency care
- Accessible communication during recovery period
- Help with dietary and lifestyle guidance post-treatment
- Referral to specialists when needed for advanced care