What is a common complication in Kawasaki disease if untreated?

Kawasaki disease is a vasculitis that primarily affects children and can lead to serious cardiovascular complications if not treated promptly. The disease is characterized by an acute febrile illness with symptoms such as fever, rash, conjunctivitis, and lymphadenopathy. One of the most significant risks associated with untreated Kawasaki disease is the development of heart problems, particularly coronary artery aneurysms.

These aneurysms can form due to inflammation of the medium-sized blood vessels, including the coronary arteries that supply the heart muscle. If these arteries become weakened and dilated, they can lead to ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, or other significant cardiac complications in both childhood and later in life. Prompt treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin is essential in reducing this risk, making it critical to recognize and treat Kawasaki disease early to prevent these heart-related issues.

While high blood pressure, pneumonia, and skin infections may occur in various health conditions, they are not the direct complications associated with the untreated progression of Kawasaki disease. Therefore, heart problems stand out as the primary concern in the absence of appropriate intervention.