Kawasaki disease in children

Abstract

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute, self-limited febrile vasculitis of unknown precise etiology that predominantly affects children under 5 years and is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed countries. Early recognition and timely treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) markedly reduce the risk of coronary artery abnormalities. This article reviews current understanding of etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach (including classic and incomplete KD), important differential diagnoses, evidence-based acute and refractory treatment strategies, and follow-up recommendations including cardiac surveillance.