Before we begin: Kawasaki disease is a rare childhood disease that makes the walls of.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about kawasaki disease. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is Kawasaki disease? Kawasaki disease is a rare illness that usually affects small children. Other names for the disease are Kawasaki syndrome and mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome. It is a type of vasculitis, which is inflammation of the blood vessels. Kawasaki disease is serious, but most children can fully recover if they are treated right away.
What causes Kawasaki disease? Kawasaki disease happens when the immune system injures the blood vessels by mistake. Researchers do not fully know why this happens. But when it does, the blood vessels become inflamed and can narrow or close off.
Genetics may play a role in Kawasaki disease. There may also be environmental factors, such as infections. It does not seem to be contagious. This means that it cannot be passed from one child to another.
Who is more likely to develop Kawasaki disease? Kawasaki disease usually affects children under the age of 5. But older children and adults can sometimes get it. It is more common in boys than girls. It can affect children of any race, but those with Asian or Pacific Islander descent are more likely to get it.
What are the symptoms of Kawasaki disease? The symptoms of Kawasaki disease may include:
High fever lasting at least five days
A rash, often on the back, chest, and groin
Swollen hands and feet
Redness of the lips, lining of the mouth, tongue, palms of the hand, and soles of the feet
Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Contact your child’s health care provider if your child has a fever for 4 days, especially if they have any other symptoms of Kawasaki disease.
What other problems can Kawasaki disease cause? Sometimes Kawasaki disease can affect the walls of the coronary arteries. These arteries bring blood and oxygen to your heart. This can lead to:
An aneurysm (bulging and thinning of the walls of the arteries). This can raise the risk of blood clots in the arteries. If the blood clots are not treated, they could lead to a heart attack or internal bleeding.
Inflammation in the heart.
Heart valve problems.
Kawasaki disease can also affect other parts of the body, including the brain and nervous system, the immune system, and the digestive system.
How is Kawasaki disease diagnosed? There is no specific test for Kawasaki disease. To find out if your child has Kawasaki disease, your child’s provider:
Will do a physical exam, which includes looking at the signs and symptoms
Will likely order blood and urine tests to rule out other diseases and check for signs of inflammation
May order tests to check for damage to the heart, such as an echocardiogram and electrocardiogram (EKG)
What are the treatments for Kawasaki disease? Kawasaki disease is usually treated in the hospital with an intravenous (IV) dose of immunoglobulin (IVIG) antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that your immune system makes to fight infections.
Aspirin may also be part of the treatment. But do not give your child aspirin unless the health care provider tells you to. Aspirin can cause Reye syndrome in children. This is a rare, serious illness that can affect the brain and liver.
Treatment usually works. But if it is not working well enough, the provider may also give your child other medicines to fight the inflammation. If the disease affects your child’s heart, they might need additional medicines, surgery, or other medical procedures.
Also known as: Mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome.
Related topics: Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome.
Categories: Blood, Heart and Circulation, Skin, Hair and Nails, Immune System.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
Key Takeaways
Understanding kawasaki disease is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.