Kawasaki Disease Program

Currently, there is no specific test to diagnose Kawasaki disease. Our experts will rule out other diseases with similar signs and symptoms, such as multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) by reviewing your child’s history, performing an examination and checking basic labs.

Some of the tests we may perform to help with pinpointing a diagnosis, include:

• Blood test. We will test your child's blood to rule out other diseases and conditions. Anemia, inflammation and high white blood cell count may suggest Kawasaki disease.
• Echocardiogram. This test uses sound waves to create images of your child’s heart. This is commonly used to show how well your child’s heart is working and identify issues with their coronary arteries.
• Electrocardiogram. During this test, electrodes are attached to your child’s skin to measure the electric impulses of their heartbeat. Heart rhythm problems may occur in children with Kawasaki disease.

If your child is diagnosed with Kawasaki disease, we will treat your child using these standard therapy methods:

• Aspirin. Aspirin helps treat your child’s inflammation and prevents clots from forming in the coronary artery. Aspirin can also decrease pain, joint inflammation and fever.
• Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG). We will infuse the immune protein (gamma globulin) through your child’s vein which can lower the risk of developing coronary artery problems. This helps to reduce inflammation in your child.

In most cases, your child will improve after IVIG therapy, and your child’s fever will go away. If your child is resistant to IVIG therapy, they may require more advanced therapy.

Once your child is discharged from the hospital, we strongly suggest that your child visit a cardiologist one to two weeks after discharge and then six weeks after discharge.

If your child has developed a coronary artery aneurysm, we will treat your child with:

• Infliximab. This monoclonal antibody works to enhance your child's immune system.
• Steroids. This helps to reduce inflammation in your child's body, suppress their immune system and relieve their symptoms. 

If your child has a coronary artery aneurysm, they will need serial echocardiograms, sometimes for several years after the illness. Your child may need more treatment, including blood thinners to prevent clots. It's important to keep follow-up visits with your child's healthcare provider, even if your child is feeling well.