[Kawasaki disease: interdisciplinary and intersocieties consensus (clinical guidelines). Brief version]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Cardiology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Kawasaki disease is a critical cause of acquired heart disease in children.
• It presents as an acute, self-limiting systemic vasculitis with potential for coronary artery aneurysms, myocardial infarction, and sudden death.
• Diagnosis relies on fever and specific clinical criteria, with a significant proportion presenting with incomplete forms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop practical clinical guidelines for pediatricians.
• To standardize the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of Kawasaki disease.
• To improve clinical outcomes and reduce cardiac complications.

Main Methods:

• Consensus development by expert groups from the Argentine Society of Pediatrics and Cardiology.
• Review of current diagnostic and treatment protocols for Kawasaki disease.
• Establishment of evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice.

Main Results:

• Intravenous immunoglobulin treatment within ten days of fever onset is effective in reducing coronary artery dilation to <5%.
• Corticosteroids and biological agents show promise for non-responders to standard therapy.
• Long-term management strategies should be tailored to the extent of coronary involvement.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to timely diagnosis and treatment is crucial for preventing severe cardiac sequelae.
• Multidisciplinary long-term management is essential for patients with Kawasaki disease.
• These guidelines provide a framework for optimizing pediatric care for Kawasaki disease.