Acquired Paediatric Cardiology

Kawasaki Disease in Children

Expert evaluation, specialist coronary artery echocardiography, and long-term cardiac surveillance by consultant paediatric cardiologist Dr Nitha Naqvi at 77 Wimpole Street, London.

What is Kawasaki disease in children?

Kawasaki disease is an acute inflammatory condition that causes swelling of blood vessels (vasculitis) throughout the body in babies and young children under five. Its most critical complication is inflammation and aneurysms of the coronary arteries supplying the heart muscle. Early treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin within 10 days prevents coronary damage in the vast majority of cases.

Recognising Clinical Symptoms

The hallmark of Kawasaki disease is a persistent fever lasting 5 days or longer, alongside at least 4 of the following signs:

  • Bloodshot Eyes: Bilateral conjunctivitis without pus or discharge.
  • Mouth & Lip Changes: Dry, swollen, cracked red lips and a bright red "strawberry tongue".
  • Widespread Skin Rash: Often pronounced across the torso, back, and nappy area.
  • Hand & Foot Changes: Swollen, reddened palms and soles, followed by peeling skin around fingertips 2-3 weeks later.
  • Swollen Neck Glands: Enlarged cervical lymph node usually on one side of the neck.

Cardiology Assessment & Coronary Surveillance

Dr Naqvi performs detailed high-resolution paediatric echocardiograms to accurately measure coronary artery diameters and calculate standardized Z-scores adjusted for your child's height and weight.

Ongoing follow-up scans at 6 weeks and at regular intervals ensure full resolution of inflammation and provide long-term cardiovascular reassurance.

Coronary Artery Experts

Dr Naqvi provides specialist second opinions, coronary Z-score calculations, and long-term risk stratification for children recovering from Kawasaki disease.

Book a Consultation

Private echocardiogram and cardiac review with Dr Naqvi.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Kawasaki Disease

Expert parent guidance by Dr Nitha Naqvi

Kawasaki disease is an acute inflammatory vasculitis primarily affecting children under 5 years old. It causes widespread blood vessel inflammation, specifically targeting coronary arteries supplying the heart muscle. Early treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin dramatically reduces coronary aneurysm risks.

An echocardiogram provides accurate measurement of coronary artery dimensions (Z-scores) to detect dilatation or aneurysms, assess heart muscle pumping function, and guide safe treatment protocols.

No. Kawasaki disease cannot be passed from child to child. It is an inflammatory autoimmune response believed to be triggered by an infection in genetically predisposed children.

Children require specialist paediatric cardiology review and repeat echocardiograms at 6 weeks post-diagnosis, and ongoing surveillance if coronary artery aneurysms were detected during the acute phase.