Kawasaki disease and vasculitis associated with immunization

Abstract

The etiology and pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease (KD) remain poorly understood. Among the diverse infectious and environmental factors examined to be triggers for, or be associated with, KD, are immunizations. In this report, we first describe the case of a Caucasian girl who presented with classic KD shortly after receiving her routine 4 months vaccination series. Prior published case reports and large epidemiological studies, which explore potential associations between immunization and KD and other vasculitides, are then comprehensively reviewed. The methodologic challenges that complicate analysis in this area are also considered.