Can Kawasaki disease be cured?

Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
Updated on September 05, 2024
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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 Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Is Kawasaki disease common?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is a disease of unknown etiology. Epidemiological data suggest that multiple pathogens such as Rickettsia, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, retroviruses, and Mycoplasma infections may be the causes, but these have not been confirmed. The incidence of this disease is relatively low worldwide, though it occurs more frequently among Asians. Epidemiological surveys in China from 2002 to 2004 indicated that the incidence rate among children under five in Beijing was 49.4/100,000. Although not particularly high, this incidence rate still makes it a relatively common autoimmune disease. The primary treatments for this disease are intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin.

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Written by Shi Ji Peng
Pediatrics
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Kawasaki Disease Aspirin Side Effects

Aspirin is necessary for Kawasaki disease. Considering the pros and cons, aspirin must be used in cases of Kawasaki disease, initially in high doses. However, aspirin indeed has side effects. Some say aspirin is contraindicated for children, as its consumption can lead to Reye's Syndrome. This syndrome involves widespread mitochondrial damage following the intake of salicylate drugs during viral infection recovery, posing risks to the liver and brain. Without timely treatment, it could likely lead to liver and kidney failure, brain damage, or even death. Thus, aside from specific diseases, the use of aspirin is strictly prohibited. These specific diseases include Kawasaki disease, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. Therefore, the use of aspirin in Kawasaki disease is necessary, but it can indeed lead to some side effects.

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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.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What should be paid attention to in the diet for Kawasaki disease?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is an autoimmune vasculitis. The main clinical manifestations include persistent fever for five days or more. Other symptoms include conjunctival congestion, dry and cracked lips, strawberry tongue, swollen cervical lymph nodes, and redness and swelling at the tips of fingers and toes. Due to recurrent fever, a light and easily digestible diet is recommended. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and eat vegetables and fruits, while avoiding spicy, stimulating, greasy, and hard-to-digest foods.

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Written by Shi Ji Peng
Pediatrics
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How long does Kawasaki disease require hospitalization?

Kawasaki disease requires hospitalization and continued medication after discharge. The duration of the hospital stay is mainly determined by the child's clinical symptoms. The child can return home when the fever subsides and the dosage of aspirin is reduced, which may take about four to seven days, although this is just a general scenario. After discharge, medication must continue. If the child's coronary arteries are fine, with no dilation or lesions, a low dose of aspirin can be taken for about two months. If there are issues with the coronary arteries, aspirin must be continuously taken until the dilation resolves before stopping the aspirin, so this period can be quite long.