What is Kawasaki's disease?

Kawasaki disease is a condition that primarily affects children and is characterized by inflammation in the walls of blood vessels, particularly the coronary arteries. This inflammation can lead to various complications, including aneurysms, if not treated promptly. The exact cause of Kawasaki disease is unknown, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response to an infection or other environmental factors.

The focus on the inflammation aspect is crucial, as it helps differentiate Kawasaki disease from other conditions. For instance, while some genetic and autoimmune diseases may exhibit vascular inflammation, it is the specific and acute inflammation of blood vessels that defines Kawasaki disease. Furthermore, the condition is not classified as an infectious disease since it is not caused by a pathogen, nor is it a genetic heart disorder, which generally refers to inherited conditions affecting heart function or structure. Understanding that Kawasaki disease revolves around vascular inflammation is key to recognizing its potential impact on cardiovascular health, especially in pediatric patients.