KAWASAKI-SYNDROME IN ADULTS

An association of non-specific signs: Described in Japan in 1967, Kawa saki syndrome (adeno-cutaneo-mucosal syndrome) is an acute systemic va sculitis oi unknown origin. The condition is specific to children with characteristic fever cutaneo-mucosa involvement and cervical node enl argement Cardiovascular complications predominate (myocarditis, perica rditis and coronary aneurysms in 20% of the non-treated cases). Intrav enous immunoglobulins is the preferred treatment. Specific cases in ad ults: Sixty-four cases have been reported in adults. The main clinical features are the same as in children, but digestive disorders, hepati c involvement and joint disease are more frequent in adults. Severe co mplications: As in children severe complications may occur. Four adult s have developed coronary aneurysms, three have had aneurysms of visce ral arteries and one died from encephalitis. (C) 1998, Masson, Paris.