Related Experiment Videos
Kawasaki disease in Malta
1Paediatric Department, St. Luke's Hospital, Guardamangia, Malta. vgrech@mail.link.net.mt
European Journal of Epidemiology
|August 12, 1999
Summary
Kawasaki disease, a childhood illness, shows a similar incidence in Malta compared to other non-Asiatic regions. Increased awareness has significantly reduced diagnostic delays, preventing severe complications like coronary arteritis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Rheumatology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Kawasaki disease is an acute febrile illness in children with unknown etiology.
- Potential complications include coronary arteritis and death.
- Previous data suggested lower incidence in non-Asiatic populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of Kawasaki disease in children under 5 years of age in Malta.
- To assess the occurrence of coronary arteritis and other complications.
- To evaluate trends in diagnostic delay.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of pediatric cases in Malta.
- Calculation of incidence rates per 100,000 population <5 years.
- Review of patient records for complications and time to diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Maltese incidence of 3.2/100,000 population <5 years, comparable to non-Asiatic communities.
- No cases of coronary arteritis or other significant complications were observed.
- A notable decrease in the delay to diagnosis was identified.
Conclusions:
- Kawasaki disease incidence in Malta aligns with non-Asiatic populations.
- Improved diagnostic awareness has led to earlier detection and prevention of complications.
- Continued surveillance is important for understanding pediatric febrile illnesses.