Kawasaki disease is a poorly understood acquired heart disease that mostly affects children under five years of age.MayoClinic.com: Kawasaki Disease It rarely occurs in children over the age of eight.American Family Physician: Kawasaki Disease (June 1999)
Kawasaki disease can involve the skin, mouth and lymph nodes. KidsHealth: Kawasaki Disease While doctors still do not know the cause, research suggests that it is neither contagious nor hereditary.
United States Statistics
- Leading cause of childhood acquired heart diseaseAmerican Family Physician: Kawasaki Disease (June 1999)
- 4,000 cases diagnosed per yearAHA: Kawasaki Disease
- Lethal for 1% of diagnosedAHA: Kawasaki Disease
Symptoms
- Fever
- Rash
- Swelling of hands/feet
- Inflammation of lips, mouth and throat
Heart Complications
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have Kawasaki disease, please consult your doctor.
References
Fast Facts
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Alternate name
Mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome
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First described
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First described by
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Prevalence
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Fact:
80% affected under 5 years oldAHA: Kawasaki Disease
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Fact:
Unknown cause
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Fact:
More common in boys than girlsAHA: Kawasaki Disease
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Fact:
Occurs more frequently in those of Asian ancestryKidsHealth: Kawasaki Disease
