Facial nerve palsy complicating Kawasaki disease

Pediatrics. 2008 Sep;122(3):e783-5. doi: 10.1542/peds.2007-3238. Epub 2008 Aug 4.

Abstract

The diagnosis of Kawasaki disease, the most common cause of pediatric acquired heart disease, is difficult and often delayed for children whose age falls outside the typical range of 6 months to 5 years, especially in those with incomplete Kawasaki disease and atypical features. Delayed diagnosis is associated with an increased incidence of coronary artery pathology. Here we describe 2 cases of lower motor neuron facial nerve palsy complicating Kawasaki disease. In both cases the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease was not made acutely, and both patients developed extensive coronary artery lesions. These cases highlight the importance of considering Kawasaki disease in children with unexplained prolonged fever at any age, particularly those without full diagnostic criteria and with unusual features.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Disease Progression
  • Facial Paralysis / diagnosis
  • Facial Paralysis / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome / complications*
  • Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Time Factors