Causes and risk factors:
The exact cause is not known. Studies have shown that it is an autoimmune disorder. An infection particularly viral can trigger the disease. It is a pediatric disorder. Incidences are commonly seen in children under the age of 5years
Clinical presentations:
The disease is generally benign and is self limiting. Fever of more than 4-5 days along with enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes and involvement of the skin and mucus membranes of eyes and mouth are the characteristic features of the disease. Redness of the skin and mucus membrane occurs. The lips, oral mucosa and skin of palms are commonly affected. Peeling or shedding of the outermost layers of the skin of fingers is seen. Severe redness of the eyes(Conjunctivitis) occurs. Big red eruption on the tongue which gives an appearance of strawberry is seen. It causes inflammation of the blood vessels all over the body (Vasculitis) coronary artery involvement can pose risk for complications. It can cause myocardial infaction, pericarditis, myocarditis, and even heart failure.
Diagnosis and investigations:
There is no specific test for diagnosing Kawasaki, however the symptoms narrated by the patient and certain investigation aids in confirming the disease. Routine blood test, Urine analysis, liver function test, Chest X-ray, C reactive protein are diagnosed. In additions other investigations like ECG and echocardiogram can also be advised for cardiac evaluation.
Treatment:
Children with Kawasaki are hospitalized and kept under close monitoring to prevent complications. Intravenous administration of gamma globulin is started. Along with it salicylic acid (asprin) content medications administration is done. Studies have suggested that adding steroid medications and TNF inhibitors are be effective. Thrombolytic therapy is started in patients with any coronary thrombosis
Recent update:
The study carries out by the researchers along with the Genome Institute of Singapore have revealed that the Gene FCGR2A could be behind the Kawasaki disease.
