kawasaki_disease_flashcards (1)
What is Kawasaki disease?
A type of vasculitis predominantly seen in children.
Why is it important to recognize Kawasaki disease?
It may cause potentially serious complications, including coronary artery aneurysms.
What are the features of Kawasaki disease?
High-grade fever lasting > 5 days, conjunctival injection, bright red cracked lips, strawberry tongue, cervical lymphadenopathy, red palms and soles which later peel.
How long does the fever in Kawasaki disease last and how does it respond to antipyretics?
The fever lasts for more than 5 days and is characteristically resistant to antipyretics.
How is Kawasaki disease diagnosed?
Kawasaki disease is a clinical diagnosis as there is no specific diagnostic test.
What is the management of Kawasaki disease?
High-dose aspirin and intravenous immunoglobulin.
Why is aspirin used in Kawasaki disease despite its usual contraindication in children?
Due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, aspirin is normally contraindicated in children but is indicated in Kawasaki disease.
What is used as the initial screening test for coronary artery aneurysms in Kawasaki disease?
Echocardiogram.
What is a major complication of Kawasaki disease?
Coronary artery aneurysm.
