PEERAWAT LEEPRADITVAN, M.D.
PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY
If a young child has a high fever lasting more than five days, along with symptoms such as a skin rash, red eyes, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, mouth ulcers, and swelling of the hands and feet—and common illnesses such as influenza or other infections have been ruled out by a physician—the child may have Kawasaki disease. Without appropriate treatment, this condition can become life-threatening.
Kawasaki disease,affecting children aged 6 months to 5 years, is likely an abnormal immune response to an infection. Its main danger is coronary artery damage, potentially causing aneurysms. This significantly raises the risk of long-term heart disease. Untreated, it can be fatal.
Kawasaki disease, of unknown origin, is likely triggered by infections causing abnormal immune responses and widespread blood vessel inflammation, especially around the heart. No vaccine exists due to the lack of a specific pathogen and potential genetic/environmental factors. Vigilance and immediate medical attention are crucial if suspected.
After receiving high-dose immunoglobulin therapy, children should not receive any live vaccines for 11 months, as the immunoglobulin may neutralize the live pathogens in the vaccines, rendering them ineffective. However, inactivated (killed) vaccines can still be administered as they are unaffected by the treatment.
The standard treatment protocol involves administering intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin to reduce inflammation and prevent heart complications. When diagnosed and treated promptly, most children recover well.
Although Kawasaki disease may resolve on its own in some cases, relying on spontaneous recovery is not recommended, as it can lead to long-term cardiac complications. Therefore, early detection and medical intervention are essential when symptoms are present.
PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY
