What is Kawasaki disease?

Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

Updated on September 19, 2024

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Kawasaki disease is a disease possibly related to viruses. Currently, the exact cause of Kawasaki disease is unclear, and the mechanism of its onset is also not well understood. It is characterized primarily by systemic vasculitis and is an acute febrile exanthematous disease. Clinically, it presents with symptoms such as rash, fever, conjunctival congestion, cracked lips, oral mucosal congestion, enlarged cervical lymph nodes, and peeling of the skin on the extremities. The cause of Kawasaki disease is unclear, but various viral infections observed clinically could potentially exacerbate the progression of Kawasaki disease. It mainly affects the coronary arteries, so there is a certain link between Kawasaki disease and viruses. However, it is not necessarily the direct cause of Kawasaki disease but could worsen or be a concomitant disease.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 43sec

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How many days can Kawasaki disease be cured?

Kawasaki disease is a syndrome of mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, the cause of which is unclear, as is the pathogenesis of the disease. The pathological changes are mainly systemic vasculitis, which is prone to secondary damage to the coronary arteries. It has a relatively long course. If fever occurs, the fever can persist for 1-2 weeks. Generally, special medications such as aspirin are required for treatment. Usually, treatment is for 3 days, and after the fever subsides, the dosage is gradually reduced, maintained for 6-8 weeks. If there is secondary coronary artery damage, the duration might be longer. In cases of severe coronary damage, the duration of the disease may be several months or even years, depending on the specific condition of the disease. Kawasaki disease is a self-limiting disease. Usually, if there is no significant coronary artery damage, after symptom control, comprehensive examinations are conducted 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1-2 years after discharge, mainly heart examinations such as electrocardiograms and echocardiograms. If there is a combination of coronary artery aneurysms, long-term follow-up is required, with an examination every six months to one year until the coronary aneurysm disappears or if there is combined damage to the coronary artery structure, long-term follow-up is needed.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang

Pediatrics

59sec

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Kawasaki disease sequelae

Kawasaki disease is an autoimmune vasculitis, and since it is vasculitis, it can originate from blood vessels in various parts, including the heart, liver, kidneys, brain, and more. However, it mainly arises from the coronary arteries of the heart. If Kawasaki disease is not effectively treated, some patients can develop coronary artery dilation and even coronary artery aneurysms. Once a coronary artery aneurysm occurs, its complication includes the risk of rupture and bleeding of the aneurysm, which can be difficult to treat if there is severe bleeding. If there is some coronary artery dilation, it can lead to the formation of coronary artery thrombosis, which is also a complication it can cause. However, the vast majority of Kawasaki disease cases, if treated effectively, can prevent coronary artery abnormalities. Therefore, as long as the treatment is timely, most cases will not have significant lasting effects.

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Written by Yao Li Qin

Pediatrics

1min 16sec

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How is Kawasaki disease treated?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, can cause damage to the coronary arteries in untreated children, so it is crucial to treat the disease promptly once diagnosed. This disease generally occurs sporadically or in small outbreaks and can occur in any season, predominantly affecting infants and young children. The main treatment for Kawasaki disease is aspirin, which not only reduces fever but also helps reduce coronary artery lesions. Additionally, intravenous immunoglobulin is administered; however, the use of corticosteroids in Kawasaki disease is still somewhat controversial. Other treatments mainly include antiplatelet aggregation agents such as dipyridamole, and symptomatic supportive care for the child, including fluid supplementation, heart protection, control of heart failure, and correction of arrhythmias. For severe coronary artery lesions, coronary artery bypass surgery may be required. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician.)

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 14sec

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Can Kawasaki disease be cured?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, has an unclear pathogenesis. The primary pathological change is systemic vasculitis. It commonly affects infants and young children, with 80% of cases occurring in children under five years of age. Kawasaki disease is a self-limiting condition, and most cases have a good prognosis. However, there is a 1% to 2% chance of recurrence. If not effectively treated, 15% to 25% of cases may develop coronary artery aneurysms. These aneurysms often resolve on their own within two years after the disease, but often leave behind abnormalities such as thickening of the vessel wall and decreased elasticity. Larger aneurysms may not completely resolve and can lead to thrombosis or narrowing of the vessel. Kawasaki disease is also one of the causes of acquired heart disease in children. Therefore, Kawasaki disease should be treated promptly and effectively to prevent severe complications.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 18sec

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Does Kawasaki disease cause vomiting?

Kawasaki disease is a disease with no clear etiology, commonly seen in infants and toddlers, with eighty percent of cases occurring in children under five years old. Its main pathological change is systemic vasculitis. The main symptoms include fever, congested and cracked lips, diffuse congestion of the oral mucosa, swollen tongue papillae, and strawberry tongue. Other symptoms may include swelling of the hands and feet, polymorphous erythema, and enlarged lymph nodes. There could be subsequent cardiac complications, primarily affecting the coronary arteries. Kawasaki disease may cause vomiting due to the diffuse congestion in the oral cavity, and the pharynx might also be congested. When children experience significant congestion, their laryngeal reflex might be sensitive, possibly leading to vomiting. Furthermore, children with Kawasaki disease might develop secondary infections from other bacteria and viruses, which could also lead to symptoms like vomiting. Therefore, the manifestations of Kawasaki disease can vary, and if significant vomiting occurs, it should be investigated to determine the cause.