Kawasaki Disease

Symptoms

The early symptoms of Kawasaki disease are similar to many other infections or allergic reactions.

The first symptom usually is a sudden, high fever that may be 104°F (40°C) or higher. Unlike fever caused by common viruses, the fever from Kawasaki disease can last more than 10 days if the disease is not treated.

Other symptoms that can occur along with fever include:

• Red, bloodshot eyes, usually without pus or discharge.
• A red body rash that varies in size, shape, and consistency. The rash rarely blisters and is usually most obvious in the torso or groin area.
• Red, swollen, cracked lips and a red ("strawberry") tongue and lining of the mouth.
• Firm, swollen hands and feet with shiny red palms and soles. The skin begins to shed and peel between 1 and 3 weeks after the fever starts. Peeling starts under the fingernails and toenails and slowly spreads to the palms and soles.
• Swelling of lymph nodes on one side of the neck. Swelling very rarely occurs on both sides of the neck.

Other symptoms may include:

• Irritability and tiredness.
• Joint swelling and pain. The pain sometimes is very severe. A child may refuse to move or put weight on his or her hands and feet.
• Abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• A rapid heart rate or changes in heart rhythm from heart inflammation.

Other conditions with symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease include measles, Epstein-Barr infections, scarlet fever, drug reactions, toxic shock syndrome, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It is important for a child with symptoms to see a doctor for diagnosis and proper treatment.

If your child has symptoms of Kawasaki disease, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment often prevent life-threatening problems.

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Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: December 23, 2008
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Stanford T. Shulman, MD - Pediatrics
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