How is Kawasaki disease diagnosed?

Written by Shi Ji Peng
Pediatrics
Updated on December 22, 2024
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Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is an acute febrile rash disease characterized primarily by inflammation of medium and small arteries throughout the body, with a self-limiting nature. Clinically, it mainly presents with fever, rash, mucosal lesions, conjunctival congestion, and non-suppurative enlargement of cervical lymph nodes. If untreated, 20% of cases can lead to coronary artery damage. To diagnose this disease, in addition to typical clinical manifestations, attention must also be paid to various tests such as blood tests, immunological tests, and ultrasound examinations for a comprehensive assessment. Although the clinical characteristics are largely indicative of the disease, ultrasound examination is crucial to check for any dilation of the coronary arteries.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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What should be paid attention to in the diet for Kawasaki disease?

Kawasaki disease is a type of mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, and its main pathological change is systemic vasculitis. Its main characteristics include persistent fever, high fever, ineffective antibiotic treatment, followed by the appearance of a skin rash on the mucous membranes, accompanied by enlarged lymph nodes. When Kawasaki disease occurs, there is a high fever, so it is suggested that children with Kawasaki disease should consume a diet high in protein, calories, and fiber, which is light and easily digestible in liquid or semi-liquid form. Spicy, overly hard, and overly hot foods should be avoided.

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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 Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Does Kawasaki disease cause vomiting?

Kawasaki disease is a disease with no clear etiology, commonly seen in infants and toddlers, with eighty percent of cases occurring in children under five years old. Its main pathological change is systemic vasculitis. The main symptoms include fever, congested and cracked lips, diffuse congestion of the oral mucosa, swollen tongue papillae, and strawberry tongue. Other symptoms may include swelling of the hands and feet, polymorphous erythema, and enlarged lymph nodes. There could be subsequent cardiac complications, primarily affecting the coronary arteries. Kawasaki disease may cause vomiting due to the diffuse congestion in the oral cavity, and the pharynx might also be congested. When children experience significant congestion, their laryngeal reflex might be sensitive, possibly leading to vomiting. Furthermore, children with Kawasaki disease might develop secondary infections from other bacteria and viruses, which could also lead to symptoms like vomiting. Therefore, the manifestations of Kawasaki disease can vary, and if significant vomiting occurs, it should be investigated to determine the cause.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Can Kawasaki disease be cured?

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 Li Jiao Yan
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How long does it take to cure Kawasaki disease?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, has unclear etiology and pathogenesis. The primary pathological change is systemic vasculitis, frequently affecting the coronary arteries. Kawasaki disease is considered a self-limiting condition, with most cases having a good prognosis; recurrence occurs in 1% to 2% of affected children. If associated with coronary artery damage and not effectively treated, 15% to 25% of these cases can develop coronary artery aneurysms. Typically, coronary artery aneurysms resolve within two years of onset, but often leave residual arterial wall thickening and reduced elasticity. Large aneurysms do not disappear completely and can lead to thrombosis or stenosis. Kawasaki disease is also one of the main causes of acquired heart disease in children. Therefore, active and effective treatment of Kawasaki disease can result in recovery. However, if there is accompanying coronary artery damage, the prognosis can vary depending on the extent of the damage. Severe coronary artery damage might lead to long-term heart disease.