Kawasaki Disease Mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome This syndrome usually occurs in children (80% under age of 5).  For unknown reasons, the cells lining the small and medium-sized blood vessels (such as the coronary arteries of the heart) are attacked by the body's immune system. This process is known as an autoimmune attack, and can damage the heart, skin, lymph nodes, mucous membranes (e.g., mouth and eyes), and other body parts. Fever for more than 5 days Irritability Both eyes are red Throat is red Cracked lips "Strawberry tongue" Leg swelling Skin peeling Skin becomes red Rash, usually in the pelvic area and face Palm and soles may be red Enlarged lymph glands of the back of the neck The coronary arteries (the arteries of the heart) become inflamed in 20% of untreated conditions.  This is called arteritis. Patients with coronary artery involvement may have a heart attack Joint swelling and pain may be seen Physical exam will reveal the changes in the skin, lymph nodes, joints, lips, and eyes. Blood tests -- complete blood count, kidney function, and ESR Electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, and echocardiogram may show changes in the heart. Treatment for Kawasaki disease starts in the hospital, but children often respond very quickly and can go usually go home in a few days on oral aspirin. IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin), is a mixture of antibodies collected from donated blood.  Consequently, there is a risk of infection being passed from the blood donor to the person receiving IVIG. Aspirin, which very safe for teenagers and adults, is associated with development of "Reye Syndrome," which can occur when a child with the Flu takes aspirin.  Because of this, children undergoing treatment for Kawasaki disease with aspirin, and their families, should be vaccinated for the Flu. IVIG is only given once, but aspirin is usually needed for several months. Even if a child's initial echocardiogram is normal, many heart specialists feel that there is always a future risk for heart disease after Kawasaki disease.  Consequently, most children will have regular follow-up with a cardiologist, sometimes for the rest of their lives. Children who develop heart problems will require specialized treatments. The majority of patients with Kawasaki disease, however, do very well and have no problems later in life. Stevens-Johnson syndrome Measles Staphylococcal toxin Group A-beta hemolytic streptococcal infection