Kawasaki is an acute disease related to blood vessels that affects infants and children. In children with Kawasaki blood vessels throughout the body become inflamed mainly affecting the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood to the heart and poses the risk of acquired heart diseases in affected children. It may also affect the lymph nodes, skin and the lining of the mouth, nose and throat.
Though the exact causes of the disease are unknown, children with a family history of Kawasaki disease are susceptible to developing the disease. It is mostly caused due to genetic, exposure of bacteria and viruses and other environmental pollutants.
Symptoms
- Prolonged high fever
- Rashes on skin
- Conjunctivitis
- Redness of lips and tongue
- Swelling of lymph nodes of neck
- Swelling and redness in palm of hands and sole of feet
- Diarrhoea and vomiting
Treatment
Treatment for the disease aims at reducing fever and inflammation as well as to reduce the risk of spread of disease in coronary arteries. In severe cases, if the disease affects coronary arteries, then blood thinning drugs are prescribed. An IV injection of immunoglobins works well together with aspirin.
If not cured, surgery can be recommended.
