What are the diagnostic tests for Kawasaki disease?

Jan 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

The main diagnostic tests for Kawasaki disease include complete blood count, immunological tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, and echocardiography. These tests help diagnose whether there are lesions in white blood cells, platelets, immunoglobulins, cardiac electrophysiological activity, lung and heart tissues, thereby facilitating timely exclusion of Kawasaki disease and determining the progression and severity of the condition.

Generally, the main diagnostic tests for Kawasaki disease include complete blood count (CBC), immunological tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, and echocardiography. If abnormalities are detected, timely medical consultation is necessary. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A CBC primarily involves drawing blood for screening, allowing analysis of whether indicators such as white blood cells, platelets, and red blood cells are within normal ranges or if any values are abnormally high or low. If elevated white blood cells, increased platelets, accelerated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), or elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) are detected, Kawasaki disease should be considered as a preliminary diagnosis.

2. Immunological Tests

Immunological tests mainly assess serum immunoglobulins, such as IgG, IgM, IgA, IgE, and circulating immune complexes. If test results indicate elevated TH2-type cytokines, Kawasaki disease should be promptly ruled out.

3. Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An ECG allows observation of the heart's electrical activity. If non-specific ST-T changes, ST-segment elevation, T-wave inversion, abnormal Q waves, or low voltage states are detected during testing, it suggests that Kawasaki disease may have affected the heart, potentially causing myocarditis or myocardial infarction.

4. Chest X-ray

A chest X-ray primarily uses imaging technology to observe changes in the lungs and heart. If increased or blurred lung markings, patchy shadows, or cardiac enlargement are detected, damage to the heart and lungs should be suspected.

5. Echocardiography

Echocardiography can serve as an auxiliary diagnostic tool for Kawasaki disease. If heart damage is confirmed, this test can determine the extent of cardiac injury and structural abnormalities, helping identify complications such as pericardial effusion or ventricular enlargement.

It is important to note that if any of the above tests indicate abnormalities, further investigations are necessary to promptly rule out Kawasaki disease and assess disease progression. Additionally, timely targeted treatment should be administered based on diagnostic results to prevent worsening of the condition.

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