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What is Kawasaki Disease?

Kawasaki Disease is a rare but serious illness that primarily affects children under the age of 5. It involves inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis) throughout the body, including the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle.

Side Effects of Kawasaki Disease

The disease can lead to various side effects if left untreated or if treatment is delayed. These can include:

  • Coronary artery abnormalities: This is the most concerning complication, as it can lead to an increased risk of heart problems such as coronary artery aneurysms.
  • Heart problems: In severe cases, Kawasaki Disease can cause inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) or heart valve problems.
  • Aneurysms in other blood vessels: Besides the coronary arteries, other blood vessels throughout the body may develop aneurysms or inflammation.
  • Other complications: These may include inflammation of the joints, liver, gallbladder, and other organs.

How is Kawasaki Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Kawasaki Disease typically involves a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. Key features that doctors look for include:

  • Prolonged fever lasting more than 5 days(often unresponsive to antibiotics).
  • Characteristic changes in the skin and mucous membranes, such as a rash, red eyes, red lips, and a "strawberry tongue."
  • Swelling and redness of the hands and feet (often with peeling skin).
  • Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
  • Cardiac abnormalities may also be detected through tests like echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart).

Potential Treatment of Kawasaki Disease

Early treatment is crucial to reduce the risk of complications. Treatment typically involves:

  • Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG): This is a concentrated dose of antibodies that helps reduce inflammation and the risk of coronary artery problems.
  • Aspirin therapy: High doses of aspirin are often given temporarily to reduce inflammation and prevent blood clotting, especially in the coronary arteries.
  • Monitoring and follow-up: Regular monitoring of cardiac health through echocardiograms is essential to detect and manage any coronary artery abnormalities that may develop.


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