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Kawasaki disease: an update on diagnosis and treatment

Ho-Chang Kuo1, Kuender D Yang, Wei-Chiao Chang

  • 1Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan.

Pediatrics and Neonatology
|February 22, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a mysterious vasculitis affecting young children, leading to acquired heart disease. This review updates diagnosis and treatment strategies for KD, including options for non-responders.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Rheumatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute, multi-system vasculitis of unknown cause, primarily affecting children under five.
  • It is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed nations.
  • The etiology of KD remains elusive, with unconfirmed viral links.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and summarize current knowledge on Kawasaki disease.
  • To provide updated information on diagnosis and treatment protocols.
  • To discuss advanced treatment options for non-responders to initial therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing data on Kawasaki disease.
  • Inclusion of supplementary diagnostic criteria from the American Heart Association.
  • Summary of treatment strategies, including novel therapies for refractory cases.

Main Results:

  • Kawasaki disease presents diagnostic challenges, particularly in incomplete forms.
  • Intravenous immunoglobulin is a standard treatment, but some patients require alternative therapies.
  • Emerging treatments include biologics, corticosteroids, statins, and plasma exchange.

Conclusions:

  • Accurate diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial to prevent cardiac complications in Kawasaki disease.
  • Management of refractory KD requires a multi-faceted approach with tailored therapeutic options.
  • Continued research is needed to elucidate the etiology and optimize treatment of Kawasaki disease.

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