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 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 Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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How is Kawasaki disease treated?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, can cause damage to the coronary arteries in untreated children, so it is crucial to treat the disease promptly once diagnosed. This disease generally occurs sporadically or in small outbreaks and can occur in any season, predominantly affecting infants and young children. The main treatment for Kawasaki disease is aspirin, which not only reduces fever but also helps reduce coronary artery lesions. Additionally, intravenous immunoglobulin is administered; however, the use of corticosteroids in Kawasaki disease is still somewhat controversial. Other treatments mainly include antiplatelet aggregation agents such as dipyridamole, and symptomatic supportive care for the child, including fluid supplementation, heart protection, control of heart failure, and correction of arrhythmias. For severe coronary artery lesions, coronary artery bypass surgery may be required. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician.)

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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What is Kawasaki disease? Is it contagious?

Kawasaki disease is a common pediatric febrile rash disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome. It is a systemic vasculitis syndrome mediated by immune mechanisms. Kawasaki disease may be caused by acute immune dysregulation due to infectious factors, and genetic factors may be related to the acute onset of the disease. Therefore, Kawasaki disease is not contagious, and contact with children with Kawasaki disease will not lead to transmission. Kawasaki disease generally occurs in infants and young children, and there is no clear seasonal pattern to its occurrence, nor significant gender differences.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Does Kawasaki disease cause a runny nose?

Kawasaki disease, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, primarily presents with repeated high fevers that do not respond to antibiotics, conjunctival congestion, diffuse oral congestion, chapped and congested lips, polymorphic erythema and scarlatiniform rashes on the skin, and unilateral or bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy. The cause of Kawasaki disease remains unclear, but studies suggest that respiratory or gastrointestinal infections may be common prodromal symptoms, indicating that the onset might be related to infections, though no contagious phenomena have been identified to date. Kawasaki disease might show prodromal signs such as upper respiratory infections, characterized by symptoms like a runny nose and cough, or gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting, which suggests that a runny nose might be a manifestation of Kawasaki disease.

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Written by Quan Xiang Mei
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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.