How long does Kawasaki disease require hospitalization?

Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
Updated on February 23, 2025
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Kawasaki disease is an autoimmune vasculitis, primarily concerning because it affects the coronary arteries of the heart. Without effective treatment, some cases can lead to coronary artery dilation and even the formation of coronary artery aneurysms. Therefore, hospitalization is generally recommended during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease. During hospitalization, treatment typically involves the use of intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin. After treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin, the body temperature generally begins to decrease gradually. Once the body temperature has stabilized for about three days and there are no complications, the patient can usually be discharged, so most hospital stays last about 5-7 days. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Shi Ji Peng
Pediatrics
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How is Kawasaki disease diagnosed?

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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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 Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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How long does Kawasaki disease require hospitalization?

Kawasaki disease is an autoimmune vasculitis, primarily concerning because it affects the coronary arteries of the heart. Without effective treatment, some cases can lead to coronary artery dilation and even the formation of coronary artery aneurysms. Therefore, hospitalization is generally recommended during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease. During hospitalization, treatment typically involves the use of intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin. After treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin, the body temperature generally begins to decrease gradually. Once the body temperature has stabilized for about three days and there are no complications, the patient can usually be discharged, so most hospital stays last about 5-7 days. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Is Kawasaki disease easy to treat?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is a self-limiting disease but is an acute systemic vasculitis commonly seen in infants and children under the age of 5. The primary clinical manifestations include non-suppurative cervical lymphadenopathy, oral mucosal lesions, conjunctival congestion, prolonged fever, polymorphous rash, and hard swelling of the hands and feet with fingertip desquamation. Cardiovascular damage is the most severe complication of Kawasaki disease and can lead to coronary artery aneurysms and coronary artery dilation. If Kawasaki disease is not treated promptly, the incidence of developing coronary artery aneurysms is 15%-25%, making Kawasaki disease one of the most common causes of acquired heart disease in infants and young children. Therefore, timely treatment of Kawasaki disease is crucial, generally involving anti-inflammatory treatment, immune support, and symptomatic management. If there is no concomitant coronary artery damage, treatment involves symptomatic management. If there is coronary artery damage, the treatment duration will be longer and regular follow-up is necessary. The course of the disease can extend over months or even years, thus treatment of Kawasaki disease needs to be tailored based on the individual's condition and clinical symptoms.

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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.