A 25-year single-center study on Kawasaki disease in the Polish population: Insights into long-term outcomes and coronary complications.

BACKGROUND

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute inflammatory condition affecting blood vessels in children under 5 years old. Despite treatment advancements, KD remains a major cause of cardiovascular complications, particularly coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs).

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

This study analyzes 102 KD patients treated in Pomerania during 1997-2021. Clinical and laboratory data were collected. Eighty patients (78.4%) were monitored for a median of 7.1 years (IQR 2.5-12.5) to assess cardiovascular outcomes.

RESULTS

The median annual number of cases was 3.0 cases (IQR 2.0-5.0), showing a gradual increase. Median age at onset was 1.8 years (IQR 1.1-3.3), with male-to-female ratio of 1.8:1. Delayed diagnosis occurred in 38.8% of cases. CAAs were detected in 46.3% of patients during the acute phase, with large CAAs in 32.4%. Long-term follow-up showed persistent coronary changes in 15% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The high prevalence of coronary complications may be linked to delayed diagnosis. These findings emphasize the need for early detection and treatment to prevent complications. Further research is needed to refine KD management strategies across Central and Eastern Europe.