Macular oedema in Kawasaki syndrome

Current perspectives on ophthalmic manifestations of childhood rheumatic diseases

Inflammatory eye diseases are an important manifestation of many pediatric rheumatologic conditions. Early screening and diagnosis are imperative as these illnesses can not only result in significant visual morbidity but are also an indicator of systemic inflammation. Time to presentation of ocular inflammation varies significantly and can range from many years prior to the onset of systemic symptoms to well after the diagnosis of the rheumatologic disorder. Due to this variability in presentation, careful monitoring by an ophthalmologist is vital to preventing ocular complications and preserving vision. Both local and systemic immunosuppressive medications have been effective in the management of ocular disease. In this review, we will focus on the known ophthalmologic manifestations of common pediatric rheumatologic diseases and discuss recent advances in therapeutic considerations for these conditions.

Kawasaki disease: part I. Diagnosis, clinical features, and pathogenesis

Kawasaki disease, or mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, most commonly affects children between 6 months and 5 years of age. Approximately 90% of patients have mucocutaneous manifestations. This article will focus on the epidemiology of Kawasaki disease in the United States as it relates to other countries, the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease, its clinical course, and the currently accepted theories of pathogenesis. A particular focus is given to the various dermatologic manifestations that may occur.