Overview of T-cell subsets and related cytokines in Kawasaki disease

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute febrile inflammatory illness in children characterized by systemic vasculitis; the etiology and pathogenesis have not been fully clarified. In recent years, studies have shown that T cell-mediated immune abnormalities play an important role in the development of KD. This paper reviewed the dynamic changes of T cell subsets (e.g., Th1, Th17, Treg, etc.) and their regulatory mechanisms in KD, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of T cell-mediated cytokine storm, autoimmune response and vascular injury. In addition, this paper summarizes the research progress of T cell-targeted therapy in KD, which provides a new theoretical basis for the optimization of clinical intervention strategies. By systematically combing the roles and mechanisms of T cells in KD, aims to provide reference for further elucidation of its pathogenesis and development of novel therapeutic approaches. IMPACT: T cells exhibit different immune responses in physiological and pathological states. Different T cell subsets are functionally diverse. Different T cell subsets in patients with Kawasaki disease exhibit significant differences in activity that correlate with therapeutic efficacy. Studies of T cell subsets reveal potential immunotherapeutic targets and improve our understanding of Kawasaki disease.