What is kawasaki desease?

Kawasaki disease is a rare, acquired, self-limited vasculitis that typically occurs in children younger than 5 years of age. The cause of Kawasaki disease is unknown, although an infectious etiology is suspected.

Symptoms of Kawasaki disease include:

* Fever lasting for more than 5 days

* Rash

* Conjunctivitis (red eyes)

* Swollen lymph nodes

* Swelling of the hands and feet

* Red, cracked lips

* Strawberry tongue

* Diarrhea

* Vomiting

* Abdominal pain

Kawasaki disease can be serious if it is not treated promptly. Treatment typically involves high-dose aspirin and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). Aspirin helps to reduce fever and inflammation, while IVIG helps to prevent the development of coronary artery aneurysms.

Kawasaki disease can lead to serious complications, including:

* Coronary artery aneurysms: Bulges in the walls of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. Coronary artery aneurysms can cause heart attacks.

* Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle. Myocarditis can lead to heart failure.

* Pericarditis: Inflammation of the sac that surrounds the heart. Pericarditis can cause chest pain and shortness of breath.

* Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints. Arthritis can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints.

* Neurological problems: Kawasaki disease can cause a variety of neurological problems, including seizures, strokes, and encephalitis.

* Death: Kawasaki disease can be fatal in rare cases.

Kawasaki disease is a serious condition, but it is usually treatable if it is diagnosed and treated promptly.