Kawasaki disease is a rare condition that primarily affects children under 5 years old and is characterized by inflammation of blood vessel walls in the body. Although its cause remains unknown, it is considered an autoimmune disease and is one of the leading causes of acquired heart disease in childhood in developed countries. Early detection of the disease is key to avoiding serious complications, such as coronary aneurysms.
What Are the Early Signs of Kawasaki Disease?
Kawasaki disease progresses in phases and presents specific symptoms that may appear gradually. The initial signs are often confused with other common illnesses, such as viral infections, but there are distinctive symptoms that allow for early identification of the disease.
Persistent Fever
High fever, usually above 39 °C, is one of the first signs of Kawasaki disease. This fever tends to be persistent and lasts more than five days, despite attempts to reduce it with common antipyretic medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Fever indicates inflammation in the body, and in the case of Kawasaki disease, it is accompanied by other symptoms that help differentiate it from other infections.
Skin Rashes
The appearance of red rashes on the body is common in this disease. These rashes can vary but usually appear on the torso, limbs, genital area, and face. Skin rashes are a sign of inflammation and can cause significant discomfort for the child.
Non-Purulent Conjunctivitis
Another characteristic symptom is bilateral conjunctivitis, an inflammation in both eyes that does not produce pus. The child’s eyes appear red and irritated but do not have discharge, unlike common bacterial or viral conjunctivitis. This ocular manifestation is one of the first signs that helps differentiate Kawasaki disease from other febrile conditions.
Changes in Lips and Mouth
Children affected by Kawasaki disease often have dry, cracked, and red lips. They may also have a red and swollen tongue, known as “strawberry tongue,” due to its characteristic color and texture. Additionally, the mucosa of the mouth may appear red and very inflamed.
Swelling and Redness in Hands and Feet
A distinctive feature of Kawasaki disease is swelling in the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, which tend to be red and inflamed. After a few days, these initial symptoms may lead to skin peeling, especially around the nails, on the palms, and on the soles.
Lymph Node Swelling
Swelling of the lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, is an early symptom that appears in some children with this disease. Although not all children present lymph node swelling, its presence is an indicator that the immune system is fighting inflammation in the body.
Phases of Kawasaki Disease
Kawasaki disease develops in three main phases, each with different symptoms and manifestations:
– Acute Phase (first two weeks): This is when high fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis, changes in the mouth, and swelling in hands and feet occur. During this phase, the child is often irritable and has joint pain.
– Subacute Phase (2-4 weeks): In this stage, some symptoms begin to fade, but skin peeling and possible joint swelling may occur. It is in this phase that cardiac complications, such as aneurysms in the coronary arteries, may arise, making monitoring essential.
– Convalescent Phase (from 4 weeks): The child begins to recover, and symptoms disappear, but continuous monitoring may be needed to ensure no cardiac complications have developed.
You May Also Be Interested In: Understanding Kawasaki Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis
The Importance of Early Detection and Ongoing Care
Early detection of Kawasaki disease is essential to avoid severe complications in the cardiovascular system. If left untreated, this disease can lead to problems in the coronary arteries that may persist throughout life. It is important for parents to be alert to signs of persistent fever and other mentioned symptoms and to consult a pediatrician immediately if they suspect their child may have the disease.
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