Heart Condition Saturday: Kawasaki Disease

Kawasaki disease affects children and is most common among those of Japanese and Korean descent. No cause is known for the illness that causes a fever and affects the skin, mouth, and lymph nodes. Although rare and manageable if diagnosed early, complications involving the heart can result.

• Vasculitis – an inflmmation of the blood vessels including the coronary arteries
• Inflammation of the heart muscle, lining, valves of outer membrane
• Arrhythmias – abnormal heart rhythm
• Abnormal functioning of heart valves

For symptoms and treatment, visit KidsHealth and the Kawasaki Disease Foundation.

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