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Kawasaki Disease
Kawasaki disease is the most common form of vasculitis that primarily
affects children. The disease produces irritation and inflammation of many tissues of the body, including the hands, feet,
whites of the eyes, mouth, lips, and throat. High fever and swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck also are characteristic
of this illness. The inflammation is uncomfortable, but resolves with time. However, the main threat from Kawasaki disease
comes from its effect on the heart and blood vessels. Heart-related complications can be temporary or may affect the child
long-term. The heart, particularly the coronary arteries, is affected in as many as 20 percent of children with Kawasaki disease.
Signs and Symptoms:
- moderate to high fever (101° F to 104° F) that rises and falls for
up to three weeks
- irritability
- swollen lymph glands in the neck
- spotty, bright red rash on the back, chest, abdomen, and/or groin
- bloodshot eyes
- sensitivity to light
- swollen, coated tongue
- dry, red, cracked lips
- dark red interior surfaces of the mouth
- red, swollen palms of hands and soles of feet
peeling skin around
the nail beds, hands, or feet
swollen, painful joints
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