January 26th is Kawasaki Disease Day
January 26th is Kawasaki Disease Day, with the aim of raising awareness about this rare inflammatory condition that mainly affects children under 5 years of age. The disease was first described by Japanese pediatrician Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki in the 1960s and has since been the subject of study and attention around the world.
Kawasaki Disease is characterized by persistent high fever, inflammation of medium-sized arteries and symptoms such as skin rashes, cracked lips, conjunctivitis and swelling of the hands and feet. Although its causes are not yet fully understood, it is believed that genetic and environmental factors may be involved.
The day aims to educate families and health professionals about the warning signs of the disease, which can lead to serious complications, such as coronary aneurysms, if not treated early. Treatment, usually based on intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin, has shown high efficacy when administered in the first few weeks.
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