Kawasaki disease in the state of Jammu and Kashmir: A decade of experience

Abstract

ObjectiveTo study the profile and pattern of presentation of children with Kawasaki's disease (KD) in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Materials and methodsKD was diagnosed on the basis of standard diagnostic criteria. Investigations included hemogram with ESR and CRP, liver function tests, renal function tests, blood cultures, chest X-rays, electrocardiograms, and echocardiography in all patients. CT angiography was done in two patients. ResultsTwenty-one (15 boys and 6 girls) children were diagnosed and or treated for the disease. Mean age at diagnosis was 3.8 years (range 0.6–14 years), and 19% of patients were above 5 years of age. Fever for more than 5 days and extreme irritability, out of proportion to the degree of fever, was a characteristic feature. Oral mucosal lesions in the form of red lips as well as fissured and cracked lips were seen in 76% and rash in 80% of cases. Lymphadenopathy was seen in 52% of cases. Thrombocytosis was present in 77% of the patients. Three patients had platelet count more than 10×105/mm3. 80% patients received IVIG. Cardiac involvement in the form of myocarditis occurred in one patient, who developed cardiogenic shock and arrhythmia and died. Coronary artery aneurysm was documented in only one patient. ConclusionKD is infrequently diagnosed in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. All clinicians, especially pediatricians need to update knowledge regarding KD, so that patients are diagnosed and treated early.