Introduction to common childhood conditions

Question 1

What is the underlying pathology of Kawasaki disease?

Answer 1

Medium artery vasculitis

Question 2

What is a specific risk of Kawasaki disease?

Answer 2

Coronary artery aneurysm

Question 3

What is the diagnostic criteria for Kawasaki disease?

Answer 3

Fever for 5 days or more plus 4 of the following 5 features:

• polymorphic rash
• perioral erythema / strawberry tongue
• cervical lymphadenopathy
• conjunctivitis (bilateral)
• extremity changes e.g. red swollen hands/feet

Question 4

Which infection will present with a ‘slapped cheek’ rash?

Answer 4

Parvovirus

Question 5

What 2 risks can parvovirus pose to pregnant women?

Answer 5

Miscarriage
Hydrops fetalis

Question 6

Which infection presents with a cephalocaudal rash?

Answer 6

Measles

Question 7

Cystic fibrosis is caused by an anomaly in which protein?

Answer 7

Transmembrane conductance regulator protein (CFTR)

Question 8

Describe how thickened mucus is produced in CF.

Answer 8

Normally, chloride enters mucus, creating a negative charge, which attracts sodium into the mucus. Water follows by osmosis, thinning the mucus

In CF, the chloride channels do not work, so no chloride can enter the mucus, and therefore no sodium and water to thin it out

Question 9

What is the 2 step diagnostic process for CF?

Answer 9

Sweat test
Gene test

Question 10

What is the treatment for Kawasaki disease?

Answer 10

IV immunoglobulins (IVIG) + aspirin