High frequency of cardiovascular complications in Tunisian Kawasaki disease patients: Need for a further awareness

Abstract

Background: The outcome of Kawasaki disease (KD) depends on cardiovascular complications (CVCs). Objectives: This study aimed to explore diagnostic features and CVCs in Tunisian patients with KD. Methods: In total, 33 Tunisian patients (age, 2.9±2.2 years) fulfilling the diagnosis criteria of KD, were retrospectively reviewed. Nonparametric tests were used to compare the two groups with regards to coronary complications (CCs). Results: Diagnosis of KD was established at day 11±5.1 from the beginning of the fever. Apyrexia was obtained in an average of 29 h after completion of intravenous immunoglobulin. CVCs were identified in 52% of cases: CC in 15 patients (giant aneurysm >8mm in five patients) and non-CCs in 6 patients (severe in three patients). CCs were more frequently associated with the male sex (p=0.037), fever lasting >8 days (p=0.028) and longer time to apyrexia (p =0.031). Conclusion: In Tunisia, better knowledge and monitoring of KD are warranted.