Cardiovascular Health in Kawasaki Disease

Abstract

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a self-limiting vasculitis of unknown etiology primarily affecting young children. The most important aspect in the treatment of KD is the prevention of coronary artery lesions (CALs) because myocardial ischemia or infarction due to coronary artery stenosis or occlusion may be lethal. In addition, patients with a history of KD have systemic vasculitis, which indicates vascular endothelial damage. Therefore, patients with CAL are at a high risk of atherosclerosis. While some reports have shown an increase in vascular stiffness, others have not, and the presence of atherosclerotic lesions in patients with KD is controversial. Appropriate acute-phase treatment to prevent CAL and systemic vasculitis and subsequent regular follow-ups are important. This chapter deals with the cardiovascular health of patients with a history of KD.