Kawasaki disease: pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and management

Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2014 Jun;16(6):423. doi: 10.1007/s11926-014-0423-x.

Abstract

Kawasaki Disease, a systemic vasculitis of unknown origin with specific predilection for the coronary arteries, is the most common cause of childhood-acquired heart disease in western countries. Despite its world-wide incidence, the pathophysiology of this enigmatic disease is still under investigation. Diagnosis is made on a clinical basis, with supportive laboratory evidence and imaging. Once identified, timely initiation of treatment is imperative in order to quell the inflammatory response and decrease the incidence of long-term sequelae, specifically coronary artery aneurysms. Finally, longitudinal follow-up should be implemented based on risk stratification and individualized to each patient.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Coronary Aneurysm / etiology
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use
  • Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome / etiology
  • Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Risk Factors
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / antagonists & inhibitors

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha