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Atypical Presentation of Kawasaki Disease With Coronary Artery Aneurysms in a 2.5-Month-Old Infant: A Case Report
Suzan Mahfoud1, Aous Arous2, Danial Antonios2
1Damascus University, Pediatrics Hospital, Tartous, Syria.
Insights
Kawasaki disease (KD) in infants presents diagnostic challenges, often mimicking other infections. Early recognition and treatment with IVIG and aspirin are crucial for preventing severe coronary artery complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Cardiology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Kawasaki disease (KD) is a critical pediatric illness causing febrile vasculitis in children under five.
- Coronary artery complications are a significant concern in KD patients.
- Early diagnosis is vital to prevent long-term cardiovascular sequelae.
Observation:
- A 2.5-month-old infant presented with a prolonged 15-day fever, initially misdiagnosed.
- Laboratory findings included leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP).
- Echocardiography confirmed coronary artery dilation and pericardial effusion, indicative of KD.
Findings:
- Initial treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin resolved the fever.
- Recurrent symptoms required additional IVIG and corticosteroid therapy.
- Follow-up imaging revealed persistent coronary artery dilation, highlighting the risk of chronic vascular damage.
Implications:
- This case highlights the diagnostic difficulties of KD in infants, particularly with atypical presentations.
- Prompt recognition and management of KD are essential to mitigate severe outcomes like coronary aneurysms.
- Healthcare providers must consider KD in infants with unexplained prolonged fevers to improve patient prognosis and reduce cardiac risks.
Abstract:
Kawasaki disease (KD), a febrile vasculitis primarily affecting young children under 5, is commonly associated with coronary artery complications. This report describes the case of a 2.5-month-old infant presenting with a persistent 15-day fever, initially misidentified as pharyngitis and otitis media. Laboratory tests indicated significant leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, and increased C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Echocardiography revealed coronary artery dilation and pericardial effusion, confirming a KD diagnosis. The infant received intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and high-dose aspirin, which resolved the fever. Symptom recurrence necessitated additional IVIG and corticosteroid treatment. Subsequent imaging showed ongoing coronary dilation, emphasizing the risk of lasting vascular complications. This case underscores the diagnostic challenges of KD in infants, especially those with atypical presentations. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent serious complications such as coronary aneurysms. Healthcare providers should consider KD in infants with prolonged unexplained fevers to improve prognosis and minimize heart-related risks.
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