The recurrence rate of Kawasaki disease

Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
Updated on April 04, 2025
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Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is a type of pediatric autoimmune disease that commonly affects infants and young children, especially those under the age of five. The exact mechanisms and causes of the disease are still unclear. The primary pathological change is systemic vasculitis, frequently affecting the coronary arteries. The recurrence rate of Kawasaki disease is between 1%-3%, with a few cases experiencing three or even four occurrences. The interval between recurrences ranges from three months to one year, averaging one year and five months. Studies have shown that being younger than three years old at the time of the first episode and having vascular damage are risk factors for recurrence.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Why do children get Kawasaki disease?

Kawasaki disease has an unclear pathogenesis. It is speculated that it may be related to infections by microorganisms or other pathogens, familial genetic susceptibility, or autoimmune functions. Currently, the entire medical history is unclear, and there is no specific epidemiology identified for the onset of the disease; it can occur in any of the four seasons. The disease primarily affects infants and young children, with about 80% of cases occurring in children under five years of age. The ratio of male to female incidence is approximately 1.5:1. Thus, Kawasaki disease is most commonly seen in infants and young children. Currently, there is no definitive explanation for the mechanism of the disease.

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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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What should not be eaten with Kawasaki disease?

One of the main pathological changes in Kawasaki disease is systemic vasculitis. Clinically, common symptoms include fever, high fever, recurrent fever, conjunctival congestion, significant oral mucosal congestion, strawberry tongue, enlargement of neck lymph nodes, and peeling of the hands and feet. In cases of Kawasaki disease, oral mucosal congestion is a common complication, hence during the period of Kawasaki disease, it is advised not to consume irritating, spicy, or hot foods. These might exacerbate the child's discomfort, affect their nutrient absorption, and potentially worsen the condition. Therefore, during the illness, it is preferable to focus on bland, easy-to-digest foods.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Is Kawasaki disease contagious?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, currently has unclear pathogenic mechanisms and the causes of the disease are not well defined. One of its main pathological changes is systemic vasculitis, including the coronary arteries. The disease occurs sporadically or in small epidemics, can happen in any season without clear seasonality, and is generally more common in infants and young children, with eighty percent under five years of age. Kawasaki disease is not a contagious disease, so it does not have significant contagiousness.

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Written by Quan Xiang Mei
Pediatrics
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How to alleviate vomiting in Kawasaki disease

When children with Kawasaki disease experience vomiting, the first step is to refrain from eating and drinking, including water, for one to two hours after vomiting to avoid burdening the stomach and intestines. If vomiting subsides after fasting, there is no need for medication temporarily. However, if there is no significant relief and bloating is evident, it is necessary to treat for bowel movement and gas release. At this time, oral medications that aid in digestion, such as digestive tonics, are acceptable. If relief is still not achieved, intravenous fluid supplementation and medications that enhance gastrointestinal motility can be administered. Parents can also keep the abdomen warm and, centering around the navel, perform clockwise abdominal massages to help alleviate the symptoms of vomiting.