Kawasaki disease
Explanation
Kawasaki disease is a rare illness that causes inflammation in blood vessels, usually in young children.
What is Kawasaki disease?
Kawasaki disease is a form of vasculitis, which means inflammation of blood vessels. It most often affects children under five, but older children and adults can also develop it. The cause is not fully known, and it is not considered contagious.
What signs can occur?
A persistent fever is the main sign. A rash, red eyes, red or cracked lips, changes inside the mouth, swollen glands, and red or swollen hands and feet may also occur. These signs overlap with more common childhood illnesses, so they need medical assessment.
How is it diagnosed?
There is no single test that confirms Kawasaki disease. A clinician considers the pattern of symptoms and examination findings. Blood and urine tests can look for inflammation or help rule out other illnesses. An electrocardiogram, or ECG, traces the heart’s electrical activity, while an echocardiogram uses ultrasound to show the heart.
Why does heart follow-up matter?
Kawasaki disease can inflame the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, and may cause other heart problems. Prompt assessment and treatment reduce the risk of complications. Anyone with a persistent fever and signs such as a rash, red eyes, mouth changes, or swollen hands and feet needs urgent clinical advice.
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