Kawasaki Disease in Children

Kawasaki disease is a serious illness that mainly affects children under 5 years old. It causes swelling in the blood vessels, especially those around the heart. 

At Banner Children’s, we care deeply about your child’s health. Our team is here to help with diagnosis and treatment. Read on to learn more about Kawasaki disease, its symptoms and how we can support your child.

What is Kawasaki disease?

Kawasaki disease is a rare type of vasculitis (blood vessel inflammation). It can affect the whole body, including the heart's blood vessels (coronary arteries). Other areas of the heart may also be affected. Kawasaki disease is also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome because it affects the mucous membranes (like the mouth and eyes), skin and lymph nodes.

The condition mainly affects children younger than 5 years old. It is the most common form of acquired (not born with) heart disease in children in the U.S.   

Causes and risk factors for Kawasaki disease

The exact cause of Kawasaki disease is unknown. It is not contagious, so it can’t spread from person to person.   

Researchers believe a combination of genetic, environmental or infectious factors may cause it:

• Genetic: If a family member has Kawasaki disease, it may increase the risk for your child.
• Environmental: Some studies suggest that exposure to certain chemicals or pollutants could increase the chances. Seasonal changes, like getting sick in winter or spring, may also play a role.
• Infectious: Infections may trigger Kawasaki disease in some children. Experts think some viral or bacterial infections could start the immune response leading to the disease. 

While the cause is not exactly known, some risk factors may increase the chances of getting it. These include:

• Being younger than age 5
• Being assigned male at birth
• Being Asian or Island Pacific descent

However, you can still get Kawasaki disease even if you don’t have any of these risk factors. 

Symptoms of Kawasaki disease

The most common symptom of Kawasaki disease is a high fever lasting more than five days. At least four of the following symptoms are also usually present: 

• Rash: A red, bumpy rash that forms between the chest and leg or in the genital area or privates.
• Red eyes: The whites of the eyes may become red and swollen.
• Swollen hands and feet: The hands and feet may feel swollen and tender.
• Chapped lips: Lips may become dry and cracked, sometimes with a bright red color.
• Strawberry tongue: The tongue may look red and bumpy, similar to a strawberry.
• Swollen lymph nodes: The neck may have swollen, often painful lymph nodes.

Some children with Kawasaki disease may have a fever with fewer than four typical symptoms. This is known as atypical or incomplete Kawasaki disease. 

See a health care provider right away if your child has any of these symptoms. The specialists at Banner Health are here to give your child the care they need, make an appointment today.

Complications of Kawasaki disease

If not treated early, Kawasaki disease can lead to serious complications. These may include:

• Coronary artery aneurysms (a bulge in blood vessels)
• Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythm)
• Heart valve problems
• Blood clots
• Heart attack or heart failure
• Inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), lining of the heart (endocarditis) or covering of the heart (pericarditis)

How is Kawasaki disease diagnosed?

Diagnosing Kawasaki disease can be challenging. There is no single test for the disease. 

Instead, your child’s health care provider will perform a physical exam and review your child’s symptoms. During the physical exam, your provider will look for signs of inflammation. They will check the rash, lymph nodes in the neck and other symptoms. 

They may also order blood and urine tests to rule out other conditions and imaging studies, such as an echocardiogram, to check the heart.

Treatment of Kawasaki disease

Treatment for Kawasaki disease is very important and often requires a hospital stay. The main goals are to reduce swelling and prevent complications. Common treatments include:

• Intravenous immunoglobin (IVIG): It is a liquid made from plasma that contains antibodies. IVIG helps reduce inflammation and lowers the risk of heart problems. It works best when given within the first 10 days of illness.
• Aspirin: Your child may be given aspirin to reduce fever and prevent blood clots. It also helps protect the heart.
• Corticosteroids: Your child may receive steroids if IVIG isn’t effective.
• Monitoring: Your child’s heart health will be closely monitored. This often includes echocardiograms to look at the condition of the heart and blood vessels.

Symptoms may take four to six weeks to resolve, and your child might feel tired for several months. You can help them manage any remaining symptoms and offer emotional support.

Living with Kawasaki disease

Children with Kawasaki disease can live healthy lives after treatment. However, regular check-ups are important to keep an eye on heart health. Children with Kawasaki disease are at greater risk of coronary artery disease and heart attacks.

Regular follow-up appointments and check-ups with a cardiologist can help manage potential risks and ensure your child remains healthy. 

You can care for your child by ensuring they are up to date on their vaccinations, eat healthy foods and exercise regularly. Watch for symptoms and other health issues, and don’t hesitate to contact your child’s health care provider for guidance and support.

Can my child get Kawasaki disease again?

While most children recover fully and do not develop Kawasaki disease again, there have been rare cases where some children have experienced it a second time. Research is ongoing to understand why this happens and how to prevent it. Always talk to your child’s provider if you have concerns about their health or the possibility of getting it again. 

When to contact a health care provider

If your child shows signs of Kawasaki disease, contact their health care provider immediately. Early diagnoses and treatment can help prevent complications. Don’t hesitate to reach out, especially if your child has:

• A high fever that lasts more than five days
• A rash or swollen lymph nodes
• Changes to their lips or mouth
• Swelling in hands and feet

Your child’s health care provider can guide you through the next steps.

Here for you for every stage of life

Your child’s health is our top priority, and we are here to help them every step of the way. Call us today for more information about Kawasaki disease and to schedule an appointment.