Asymptomatic Kawasaki Disease in a 3-Month-Old Infant

Helene Pinches1, Katherine Dobbins2, Sarah Cantrell2

  • 1Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland; and helene.pinches@nccpeds.com.

Pediatrics
|July 3, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Kawasaki disease (KD) can present atypically in infants. Early diagnosis of incomplete KD is crucial for preventing severe cardiac complications in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Rheumatology
  • Systemic Vasculitis

Background:

  • Kawasaki disease (KD) is a leading cause of acquired heart disease in children.
  • Untreated KD can lead to severe cardiac complications like myocardial infarction and sudden death.
  • Incomplete KD often presents without fulfilling major diagnostic criteria, particularly in infants.

Observation:

  • A 3-month-old infant presented with an asymptomatic, transient cardiac murmur.
  • Physical examination was unremarkable, with no typical signs of Kawasaki disease.
  • Echocardiography revealed coronary artery dilation, indicative of coronary ectasia.

Findings:

  • Laboratory results suggested systemic inflammation.
  • A diagnosis of incomplete Kawasaki disease was made based on clinical and echocardiographic findings.
  • Treatment led to the resolution of inflammatory markers and coronary ectasia.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the diverse presentations of incomplete Kawasaki disease.
  • Vigilance is essential for diagnosing incomplete KD, especially in infants without classic symptoms.
  • Early recognition and treatment of incomplete KD are vital for preventing long-term cardiac sequelae.

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