Kawasaki Disease Complicated With Macrophage Activation Syndrome: Case Reports and Literature Review

Ping Jin1, Yong Luo1, Xi Liu2

  • 1Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Baoan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, College of Medicine, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China.

Frontiers in Pediatrics
|November 19, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a severe Kawasaki disease (KD) complication. Early identification and prompt treatment of MAS in KD patients improve outcomes and reduce coronary artery risks.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Intensive Care Medicine

Background:

  • Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a rare but severe complication of Kawasaki disease (KD).
  • Understanding the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of MAS in KD patients is crucial for improving prognosis.

Observation:

  • This study retrospectively analyzed three pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) patients with KD complicated by MAS.
  • Literature review was conducted to further elucidate the condition.

Findings:

  • Male gender, age over 2 years, incomplete KD, non-response to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and persistent fever (>10 days) are risk factors for MAS in KD.
  • Patients with KD and MAS face increased risk of coronary artery abnormalities, which are reversible with timely intervention.

Implications:

  • Prompt work-ups for MAS are recommended in KD patients with predisposing factors.
  • Early recognition and treatment are vital for improving the prognosis of KD patients with MAS, particularly regarding cardiac complications.