Kawasaki Disease

Kawasaki disease is a condition that causes high fever and inflammation of the mouth, hands, feet and other areas of the body. The disease causes some of the body’s arteries to become inflamed, including the arteries that feed the heart (coronary arteries).

Children with Kawasaki disease are treated with IV immunoglobulin. Even if treated, Kawasaki disease can cause the coronary arteries to enlarge and form aneurysms. An aneurysm is a weak area that tends to pouch out like a balloon. The enlarged vessel allows blood to sit still which can cause a blood clot to form in the coronary artery. Children may need to stay on aspirin for an extended period of time to prevent clots.