Epidemiology of Kawasaki disease

In this paper we review the main epidemiologic characteristics of Kawasaki disease (KD) and summarize the results of a prospective incidence survey conducted in Finland from 1981 to 1992, supplemented with some previously unpublished data. The epidemiologic features of KD have been well established in studies conducted during the past 20 years. However, continuous surveillance of KD is important to maintain a high level of awareness of the disease and to detect possible new risk factors. Epidemiologic studies should also be focused on individuals who have had KD to ascertain the final outcome of the disease, including the possible risk of premature coronary atherosclerosis.