Kawasaki disease
Alternative names:
infantile polyarteritis; mucocutaneous lymph node disease; mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome
Symptoms:
- fever that is high grade (greater than 102 degrees Fahrenheit but often 104 degrees) and remaining elevated more than three days. A persistant fever lasting at least five days is considered a hallmark sign
- fever that is relatively unresponsive to antipyretics (fever-reducing medications--see Acetaminophen - oral and Aspirin - anti-inflammatory) or ibuprofen
- extremely bloodshot or red eyes (conjunctivitis without pus or drainage)
- bright red lips (chapped appearing, may crack)
- red mucous membranes in the mouth
- strawberry tongue, white coating on the tongue and prominent red bumps (papillae) on the back of the tongue
- the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet are red
- the hands and feet may be swollen
- the palms and soles may peel (desquamate) later in the illness; peeling may begin around the nails
- rashes similar to erythema multiforme
- rash, NOT blister-like, on the trunk (may occur)
- swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy), particularly in the neck area. Frequently only one lymph node is swollen (usually in the neck region)
- joint pain (arthralgia) and swelling, frequently symmetrical
Signs and tests:
A physical examination will demonstrate many of the symptoms listed just above. Procedures such as ECG and echocardiography may reveal signs of myocarditis, pericarditis, arthritis, aseptic meningitis, and (or) coronary vasculitis.
Tests include:
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