What is Kawasaki Syndrome?

Kawasaki syndrome, or mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is a childhood disease. Medium-sized arteries throughout the body become swollen and inflamed, especially the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. 

There is effective treatment for Kawasaki syndrome, and most children make a full recovery. Some children have lasting heart damage which can lead to other types of heart disease in their lifetime. 

Complications

Untreated Kawasaki syndrome can lead to other forms of heart disease.

  • Inflammation can weaken parts of the lining of the coronary arteries and cause them to swell (an aneurysm).
  • Blood clots can form in weakened and enlarged areas, which clogs the artery and can lead to coronary artery disease, internal bleeding or heart attack.
  • Inflammation can occur in the muscles of the heart (myocarditis).
  • Kawasaki syndrome can cause heart rhythm disturbances (a arrhythmia).
  • It can also cause valvular heart disease (a valve disease).

Even with effective treatment, Kawasaki syndrome can still cause these heart problems in a very small percentage of children.

People at risk

Most people with Kawasaki syndrome are under the age of five. Children over eight years of age are rarely affected.
 
Kawasaki syndrome is more common in boys than in girls.
 
It can show up in people of all racial and ethnic groups, but it is more common in those of Asian descent.

Causes

No one knows exactly what causes Kawasaki syndrome. It is not believed to be contagious. Research studies have not detected any bacteria or viruses that cause the disease. This could be caused by a combination of environmental factors (exposure to bacteria or viruses, for example) and genetic factors. 

Symptoms 

The most common symptoms of Kawasaki syndrome are:

  • fever lasting more than three to five days;
  • a rash on the trunk of the body or in the groin area;
  • red, swollen palms and soles of the feet;
  • irritation and redness of the whites of the eyes;
  • redness, dryness and irritation of the tongue, lips, mouth and throat;
  • swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Other symptoms that you may notice in your child are:

  • irritability;
  • joint pain;
  • diarrhea;
  • vomitings;
  • stomach pain;
  • a drop in energy.
Diagnostic

To diagnose Kawasaki syndrome, your doctor will assess your child's symptoms and medical history, and give your child a full medical exam . There are no specific tests that can recognize and diagnose Kawasaki syndrome, but some that can confirm the diagnosis, including:

 
Processing

Kawasaki syndrome is treated with medication.

  • Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, commonly known as aspirin) is used to treat fever, rash, joint inflammation, and pain. It also prevents the formation of blood clots.
  • Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is an immune protein called gamma globulin. As the name suggests, it is administered intravenously. Giving IVIG at the first symptoms - preferably within 10 days of onset of fever - has been shown to reduce the risk of heart complications.

Usually, ASA is not given to children because it has been associated with swelling of the liver and brain (Reye's syndrome). An exception is made in the case of Kawasaki syndrome, but the drug must be given by a doctor. Your child may need to stay in the hospital while being treated.

Recovery

After being diagnosed with heart disease, it is normal to feel worried or afraid for your child. Find emotional comfort for your family from another family member, friend, doctor, mental health professional, or support group. Talking about your challenges and your emotions is an important step in your recovery .