Intravenous immunoglobulin-resistant Kawasaki disease: diagnosis, mechanisms, and clinical management

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)-resistant Kawasaki disease (KD), also referred to as IVIG-refractory KD or refractory KD, is characterized by a high incidence of cardiovascular complications, particularly coronary artery lesions, and may result in severe outcomes that endanger the lives of affected children. Therefore, early identification, accurate diagnosis, and timely interventions are of paramount importance. In recent years, advances in epidemiological investigations, mechanistic studies, the establishment of high-risk predictive models, and pharmaceutical developments have created new opportunities for the early prediction and management of IVIG-resistant KD. This review summarizes the current research progress on IVIG-resistant KD, offering valuable perspectives for the prevention and clinical management of this condition.