Involvement of Nervous System in Kawasaki Disease

The aim of this study was to summarize the published reports about neurological manifestations of Kawasaki disease and underlying mechanisms. PubMed was used as the source for medical database. The prevalence of neurological complications is estimated to range from 1.1 to 3.7% and can include strokes, inflammation of central nervous system, dysfunction of cranial nerves, behavioral disorders as well as syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion. Their incidence is usually associated with an increased risk for coronary artery aneurysms. In particular, the involvement of facial nerve seems to be a marker of disease severity. Although prognosis is generally remarkable, serious complications may arise in some cases. The early initiation of appropriate therapy prevents the appearance of neurological manifestations in children with Kawasaki disease.