Manifestations of Kawasaki disease in New England outbreak of 1980

Abstract

Twenty-five children with Kawasaki disease were studied during the spring of 1980. All had fever, rash, conjunctivitis, and at least two of the remaining three diagnostic criteria. They ranged in age from 7 months to 10 years with an average of 3.2 years. Cardiac manifestations were present in 64%; one had a myocardial infarct, and two had coronary aneurysms, with iliac and femoral aneurysms as well in one of these. Shock requiring dopamine therapy occurred in two; congestive failure requiring digoxin and furosemide occurred in these two and in four others. Many other problems, including hydrops of gallbladder, meningoencephalitis, cranial nerve palsies, and hypertension were also present. Thrombocytopenia occurred in two transiently, and in one of them signs suggestive of hemolytic-uremic syndrome were also present. This experience was gained during largest outbreak of Kawasaki disease yet reported in the United States.