How long does Kawasaki disease require hospitalization?

Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
Updated on February 23, 2025
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Kawasaki disease is an autoimmune vasculitis, primarily concerning because it affects the coronary arteries of the heart. Without effective treatment, some cases can lead to coronary artery dilation and even the formation of coronary artery aneurysms. Therefore, hospitalization is generally recommended during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease. During hospitalization, treatment typically involves the use of intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin. After treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin, the body temperature generally begins to decrease gradually. Once the body temperature has stabilized for about three days and there are no complications, the patient can usually be discharged, so most hospital stays last about 5-7 days. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Is Kawasaki disease characterized by eye discharge?

Kawasaki disease is an autoimmune vasculitis that can affect blood vessels throughout the body and various organs, but the most severe impact is typically on the coronary arteries, which can lead to dilation of the coronary arteries or the possibility of forming coronary artery aneurysms. The disease can cause conjunctival congestion, but this is a manifestation of aseptic conjunctivitis, meaning it does not cause, nor does it result in, purulent secretions, in other words, it does not cause eye discharge. Therefore, if a patient with Kawasaki disease has purulent eye discharge, it is possible that they have a concurrent bacterial conjunctivitis. Thus, generally, eyes affected by Kawasaki disease do not have eye discharge but may appear dry and red.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Can Kawasaki disease heal itself?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is a disease with unclear etiology and unclear pathogenesis. It commonly affects infants and young children, with 80% of cases occurring in children under five years old, and the male to female incidence ratio being 1.5:1. Kawasaki disease is a self-limiting disease, and most cases have a good prognosis. Recurrences are seen in 1%-2% of affected children. Children without coronary artery lesions also need a comprehensive physical examination, generally recommended at one month, three months, six months, and annually or biannually for up to two years, including physical examination, electrocardiogram, and echocardiography. Without effective treatment, 15%-20% of affected children may develop coronary artery aneurysms, and they should be closely followed long-term, with follow-up every six to twelve months. Coronary artery aneurysms often resolve themselves within two years after the disease, but often leave behind abnormalities such as thickened vessel walls and reduced elasticity. Large aneurysms often do not completely resolve and may lead to thrombosis or narrowing of the vessel lumen. Kawasaki disease is also a cause of acquired heart disease, so timely and effective treatment is essential to prevent cardiac issues. Once Kawasaki disease develops, it is advised to seek prompt hospital treatment to manage the condition effectively.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Is the spirit of Kawasaki disease good?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, has an unclear cause and is generally prevalent in infants and young children, with 80% of cases occurring in children under five years old. The mechanism of the disease is also not very clear. Its main pathological presentation is systemic vasculitis, often involving the coronary arteries. The primary clinical symptoms include high fever, which is unresponsive to antibiotic treatment, conjunctival congestion, diffuse oral congestion, strawberry tongue, indurative edema of the hands and feet, and palmoplantar erythema. Additionally, it may affect the heart, leading to conditions such as pericarditis, myocarditis, endocarditis, and arrhythmias. During the acute phase of Kawasaki disease, the high fever and diffuse oral mucosal congestion can affect the child's mental state. If the heart is involved, there may be abnormalities in heart rate and heart function, which can also lead to a poor mental state. Therefore, if Kawasaki disease is confirmed, it definitely requires active treatment.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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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 Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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Is Kawasaki disease prone to recurrence?

Kawasaki disease is a common pediatric febrile, rash-causing illness, and once diagnosed, treatment must begin actively. Most cases of Kawasaki disease have a very good prognosis with standard treatment, but about 5% of children may experience temporary coronary artery abnormalities, and the recurrence rate of Kawasaki disease can reach 1% to 3%. Therefore, once a child is diagnosed with Kawasaki disease, it is essential to conduct follow-up throughout the treatment process. Follow-ups should be done at three months, six months, and one year after the onset of the disease in new cases. The purpose of the follow-up is mainly to assess the child's prognosis and evaluate the coronary arteries to see if there is any recurrence, so this follow-up work is very important.