Overview
Kawasaki disease is a rare, acute inflammatory condition that primarily affects children under the age of 5, but can occasionally occur in older children and adults. The symptoms include prolonged fever, rash, swelling and reddening of the eyes, irritation and reddening of the mouth and throat, swollen lymph nodes, and joint pain. It can also cause inflammation in the arteries, leading to aneurysms (bulges) and narrowing of the blood vessels. The cause of Kawasaki disease is unknown, and there is no specific treatment, but intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin are used to manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of coronary artery complications.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of Kawasaki disease typically include a fever greater than 102.2 F (39 C) for five or more days and at least four of the following signs and symptoms: a rash on the main part of the body or in the genital area, an enlarged lymph node in the neck, extremely red eyes without a thick discharge, red, dry, cracked lips, and an extremely red, swollen tongue. Other symptoms that might develop include abdominal pain, diarrhea, irritability, joint pain, and vomiting. If your child has a fever that lasts more than three days, it is important to contact their health care provider, as treating Kawasaki disease within 10 days of onset may greatly reduce the risk of lasting damage to the coronary arteries supplying the heart muscle.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing Kawasaki disease are:
Development
Kawasaki disease is a rare condition that primarily affects children under the age of 5, although older children and adults can also be affected. The exact cause of Kawasaki disease remains unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder that results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In Kawasaki disease, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the walls of the blood vessels, leading to inflammation and damage. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including fever, rash, swelling of the hands and feet, red eyes, and swollen lymph nodes. If left untreated, Kawasaki disease can lead to serious complications, such as coronary artery aneurysms (ballooning of the arteries in the heart) or other heart problems. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which usually includes intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin, the risk of serious complications can be significantly reduced. In summary, Kawasaki disease is thought to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors that trigger an autoimmune response in the body. This leads to inflammation of the blood vessels, causing a range of symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing the disease and preventing serious complications.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if Kawasaki disease is suspected. The document suggests that if your child has a fever that lasts more than three days, you should contact your child's health care provider. Treating Kawasaki disease within 10 days of when it began may greatly reduce the chances of lasting damage to the coronary arteries supplying the heart muscle.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Kawasaki disease is a condition that mainly affects children under the age of 5. While it is often self-limiting and resolves on its own, there can be potential complications in some cases. These may include:
- Coronary artery aneurysms: In a small percentage of cases, Kawasaki disease can cause inflammation in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. If left untreated, this can result in the formation of an aneurysm, a balloon-like bulge in the artery wall.
- Heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias): Some children with Kawasaki disease may experience abnormal heart rhythms, which can be potentially life-threatening if not treated.
- Heart failure: In rare cases, Kawasaki disease can lead to heart failure, a condition where the heart muscle is unable to pump blood effectively, causing fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body.
- Nervous system complications: Although rare, Kawasaki disease can lead to complications affecting the nervous system, such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or Guillain-Barre syndrome, which causes muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis. It is important to note that the majority of children with Kawasaki disease do not experience severe complications, and early diagnosis and treatment significantly reduce the risk of potential complications. Prompt medical attention is crucial in managing the disease and minimizing potential complications.
Treatment
Kawasaki disease treatment typically involves a combination of approaches to lower fever and inflammation and prevent heart damage. The main treatments include:
- Gamma globulin infusion: This involves the administration of an immune protein (gamma globulin) through a vein to reduce the risk of coronary artery problems and inflammation in the vessels.
- Aspirin: After the fever has subsided, children may need to take low-dose aspirin for at least six weeks to prevent blood clotting and reduce inflammation. The aspirin dose may be adjusted based on the child's condition.
- Other medications: High doses of aspirin might be considered to treat inflammation, although this is less common. Treatment for Kawasaki disease is usually administered in a hospital setting, allowing healthcare providers to closely monitor the child's progress. It's important to follow the advice of a healthcare professional when administering any medication or treatment for Kawasaki disease.
Preparing for medical consultation
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance on preparing for an appointment related to Kawasaki disease. They can provide you with specific instructions based on your individual situation and help ensure that you get the most out of your appointment.