Long-Term Kawasaki Disease Complication: Thrombotic Coronary Aneurysm Leading to Acute Myocardial Infarction

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pediatric Rheumatology
• Pathology

Background:

• Kawasaki disease is a leading cause of acquired heart disease in children.
• Coronary artery aneurysms are a known complication of Kawasaki disease, increasing risks for myocardial infarction.
• Myocardial infarction typically occurs 1-2 years post-Kawasaki disease onset.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of late-onset myocardial infarction due to coronary artery aneurysm.
• To highlight the long-term cardiovascular risks associated with Kawasaki disease.

Main Methods:

• Case report detailing a patient's medical history and autopsy findings.
• Review of literature on Kawasaki disease complications and cardiovascular events.

Main Results:

• A 41-year-old patient experienced sudden death from acute myocardial infarction.
• Autopsy revealed thrombotic occlusion within a coronary artery aneurysm.
• The patient had a history of Kawasaki disease diagnosed at age 5.

Conclusions:

• Coronary artery aneurysms from Kawasaki disease can lead to fatal myocardial infarction decades after initial diagnosis.
• Long-term cardiovascular surveillance is crucial for patients with a history of Kawasaki disease.
• This case underscores the persistent risk of thrombotic events in coronary artery aneurysms.