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Kawasaki Disease

Childhood vasculitis whose coronary artery damage can be prevented with early treatment.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Kawasaki Disease?

Kawasaki disease is the most common medium-vessel vasculitis in children aged 6 months to 5 years and the leading cause of acquired pediatric heart disease. The incidence is highest in Japan (264/100,000). The etiology is unknown, although an infectious trigger is suspected.

Diagnostic criteria: fever lasting 5 days or more plus 4 of 5 criteria — bilateral non-purulent conjunctivitis, oral mucosal changes (strawberry tongue), extremity changes, polymorphous rash, cervical lymphadenopathy.

Coronary artery aneurysms develop in 20-25% of untreated cases. Early IVIG therapy reduces this rate to 5%. Long-term coronary artery disease risk persists.

Symptoms

High fever lasting 5 days or more
Bilateral non-purulent conjunctivitis
Strawberry tongue and cracked lips
Extremity edema and desquamation
Polymorphous rash
Cervical lymphadenopathy (>1.5 cm)

Risk Factors

Under 5 years of age (especially 1-2 years)
Male sex
Asian ethnicity (Japanese)
Seasonal (winter-spring)
Family history of Kawasaki disease
Recent viral infection

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Unexplained fever lasting 5 days or more
  • When mucocutaneous changes accompany fever
  • Extremity edema and desquamation
  • Cervical lymphadenopathy
  • Suspected case — emergency pediatric cardiology referral

Treatment Methods

01
IVIG 2 g/kg single dose (within first 10 days)
02
High-dose aspirin (anti-inflammatory)
03
Low-dose aspirin (antiplatelet, 6-8 weeks)
04
Second IVIG dose or infliximab in IVIG-resistant cases
05
Coronary artery follow-up (echocardiography)
06
Long-term cardiovascular risk evaluation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.