Epidemiology, etiology, and management of Kawasaki disease: State of the art

Since its first description in Japan 30 years ago, Kawasaki disease has bee n reported worldwide. Although an infectious etiology is suspected based on the epidemiology and clinical features, a causative agent has not been ide ntified. The majority of the morbidity and mortality associated with this c ondition is attributable to the development of coronary artery aneurysms. T reatment during the acute phase with intravenous immunoglobulin and acetyls alicylic acid results in significant reductions in coronary complications. The long-term management of patients with persistent coronary abnormalities is less well-defined. This article reviews the epidemiology, possible etio logies, and management of Kawasaki disease.