Treatment for this Blood Vessel Condition

Kawasaki disease is a type of vasculitis, or inflammation of the blood vessels. Children, particularly under five years of age, are more commonly affected by the condition, although Kawasaki disease occurs rarely. Signs and symptoms may include fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and rash. Inflammation and redness of the eyes, lips, hands, and feet also may occur. Abdominal pain, weakness, and cough are other possible symptoms. Although the exact cause of Kawasaki remains unknown, an abnormal immune response may cause damage to the blood vessels. Genetics may also play a role. A virus could also cause the condition, although no specific virus has been identified. Heart conditions may result as complications.

Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) is a treatment that may be administered within the first week to 10 days of the start of the condition. Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory and works to reduce fever, although there may be a concern for Reye’s syndrome. Aspirin should not be given to child with the flu or chicken pox. If the risk of developing a coronary artery aneurysm is high, a corticosteroid, such as methylprednisolone, may also me administered intravenously. If the arteries of the heart are affected, a cardiologist should be consulted.