Kawasaki disease
Pronunciation: /kah-wah-SAH-kee/
An acute systemic vasculitis of childhood that can cause coronary artery aneurysms and requires cardiac monitoring.
Full Definition
Kawasaki disease is an acute, self-limited systemic vasculitis that primarily affects children under 5 years of age. The disease is characterized by fever, rash, conjunctivitis, oral changes, extremity changes, and lymphadenopathy. The major concern is the development of coronary artery aneurysms, which occur in 15-25% of untreated patients. Early treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin significantly reduces the risk of coronary complications. Patients require serial echocardiographic monitoring to assess coronary artery dimensions. Long-term cardiac follow-up is necessary for patients who develop coronary abnormalities. Kawasaki disease is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed countries.
Usage
Usage note: Specify complete vs incomplete forms; emphasize cardiac complications and monitoring requirements.
In Context
- "The patient met criteria for complete Kawasaki disease and was treated with IVIG and high-dose aspirin." — Treatment plan
- "Follow-up echocardiogram showed resolution of coronary artery dilatation six months after Kawasaki disease." — Cardiology follow-up