Kawasaki disease

Abstract

Kawasaki disease is an illness with potentially serious effects on the heart. Current therapy is focused on the early treatment and close monitoring of cardiac status. Children who never developed aneurysms (that is, whose coronary arteries were always normal) have a rate of heart problems similar to that found in the general population; research studies are exploring whether arteries in these children might be slightly stiffer or thicker than usual. Most children with coronary aneurysms take part in normal activities but need to see their cardiologist regularly. These children/adults may have some activity restrictions depending on the size of their aneurysms and whether or not they are on medicines that slow blood clotting. All children who have had Kawasaki disease should maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle and reduce risk factors for hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or smoking.