Basic background and information about Kawasaki's Disease

Kawasaki's Disease


No, it's nothing to do with Japanese motor bikes, but Kawasaki's disease is a condition more common than measles, affecting about 2,000 UK children each year, 80% in the under 5's. Although it was first described by a Japanese doctor 30 years ago, many doctors, today, fail to diagnose it, despite it becoming increasingly common!

The cause of this disease is not known, there is no specific diagnostic test for the disorder, and there is no cure! A high level of awareness and early diagnosis is therefore paramount. To diagnose the condition at least 5 of the 6 following signs must be present
  • Fever lasting more than 5 days, and not responding to antibiotics.
  • Red inflammed eyes (conjunctivitis).
  • Dry, cracked lips, inflammed throat.
  • Swollen neck glands often affecting only one side of the neck.
  • Swelling of the palms and soles, followed by peeling of the skin of the fingertips and toes within 14 days.
  • A widespread rash similar to measles.

Thankfully most children recover completely, but in about 2% of cases, death can result from coronary artery disease; simple aspirin can have a have a protective effect. Damage to the coronary arteries may predispose sufferers to heart disease in later life.

The disease is difficult to diagnose because so many other bacterial and viral diseases present with similar symptoms. So children with red eyes, fever and a skin rash should always be considered as possible Kawasaki's cases to reduce the death toll from the cardiac complications of this frightening disease.
IMPORTANT NOTICE : This content is from the Dr Chris Steele personal archive and is provided for convenience only. Information contained here may no longer agree with the most up to date medical advice. Please check with a medical professional before taking any action.

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