Kawasaki disease, also known as Kawasaki syndrome, lymph node syndrome, and mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome.
Kawasaki disease was described by and named after Japanese pediatrician Tomisaku Kawasaki in 1967. It is also called mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome or Kawasaki syndrome.
Kawasaki disease is largely seen in children under five years of age. Kawasaki disease affects many organ systems, mainly those including the blood vessels, skin, mucous membranes, and lymph nodes. Its rarest but most serious effect is on the heart, where it can cause fatal coronary artery aneurysms in untreated children.
The exact cause of Kawasaki disease is still unknown. Some studies suggest that it may be caused by the immune system’s reaction to an infectious agent, such as a virus. The condition itself is not contagious.
Early symptoms may include:
- High fever
- Bloodshot eyes (also known as “conjunctivitis without discharge”)
- Rash
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swollen, bright red tongue
- Swollen hands and feet
- Red palms and soles of the feet
Later symptoms may include:
- Diarrhea
- Peeling skin on the hands and feet
- Vomiting
- Pain in the joints
Nursing Diagnosis for Kawasaki Disease :
1. Chronic pain related to inflammation of the myocardium or pericardium.
2. Risk for decreased cardiac output related to accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac.
3. Activity intolerance related to inflammation and degeneration of myocardial muscle cells.
