Kawasaki Disease Presenting as Acute Intestinal Obstruction

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Medicine
• Rheumatology
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Kawasaki disease (KD) is a primary cause of acquired heart disease in children.
• It typically presents with fever, rash, and inflammation of mucous membranes and lymph nodes.
• Coronary artery vasculitis is a significant complication, necessitating prompt treatment.

Observation:

• This report details a rare case of Kawasaki disease presenting as an acute surgical abdomen in a 2-year-old boy.
• The child exhibited symptoms mimicking surgical emergencies, masking the typical signs of KD.
• The abdominal presentation obscured the underlying vasculitis.

Findings:

• The case highlights the diagnostic challenge posed by atypical Kawasaki disease presentations.
• An acute abdomen presentation can delay the diagnosis of KD.
• Delayed diagnosis can impede timely administration of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of rare KD presentations, such as surgical abdomen, is crucial for pediatricians and surgeons.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment of KD can prevent severe cardiac sequelae.
• Recognizing KD in surgical abdomen cases can avert unnecessary surgical interventions and ensure appropriate medical management.