Controversies in the medical management of Kawasaki disease

Mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, now called Kawasaki disease, affects children of all ages and races. The cause of this systemic vasculitis is unknown, thus the diagnosis is based solely on clinical criteria. Coronary arteritis and the formation of coronary arterial aneurysms are the most serious early cardiac complications, while long term sequels, such as coronary stenosis and myocardial infarction, may occur. Current medical therapy is aimed solely at preventing or decreasing the occurrence of these cardiovascular complications in patients with this disease. Past treatment included antibiotics, steroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. Aspirin remains the most widely used drug, although the use of intravenous gammaglobulin has also become common. When used in combination, these two agents may reduce the incidence of coronary arterial aneurysms. The optimal dosage and duration of treatment has not yet been determined.