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Published on: July 29, 2020

Kawasaki disease: a clinical and epidemiological study of 70 children in Brazil

Cristina M R Magalhães1, Patricia A C Vasconcelos, Marne R Pereira

  • 1Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Brasilia General Hospital, Federal District Health Department, and Graduate Programs in Health Sciences, University of Brasília, SQN 212-Bloco F-Apto 605, CEP 70-864060, Asa Norte, Brasília, DF, Brazil.

Tropical Doctor
|March 21, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Kawasaki disease (KD) is likely underdiagnosed in Brazil. Early diagnosis and referral are crucial, as delayed diagnosis in this study led to coronary aneurysms in 18.5% of pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • Kawasaki disease (KD) is a critical pediatric illness, particularly concerning in developing nations.
  • Delayed diagnosis and treatment of KD can lead to severe cardiac complications, including coronary artery aneurysms.
  • Underdiagnosis of KD in Brazil may be prevalent, necessitating improved awareness and diagnostic protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the timeliness and accuracy of referrals for children with suspected Kawasaki disease in Brazil.
  • To determine the incidence of coronary aneurysms in pediatric patients with KD in the studied cohort.
  • To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis for mitigating KD complications.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective cohort study involving 70 children admitted with Kawasaki disease between April 2002 and April 2007.
  • Analysis of referral timing and diagnostic accuracy upon admission.
  • Echocardiographic assessment for the detection of coronary aneurysms.

Main Results:

  • Only 45.7% of children were referred during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease.
  • A mere 21.4% of referred children received the correct diagnosis initially.
  • Coronary aneurysms were identified in 13 (18.5%) of the studied pediatric patients.

Conclusions:

  • Kawasaki disease is likely underdiagnosed in Brazil due to delayed referrals and misdiagnoses.
  • A high index of suspicion is vital for pediatricians to ensure timely diagnosis of KD.
  • Early detection and appropriate management of KD are essential to prevent life-threatening cardiovascular sequelae.

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