LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF INTRAVENOUS IMMUNOGLOBULIN THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF KAWASAKI DISEASE: AN ANALYSIS OF CARDIOLOGICAL AND VASCULAR OUTCOMES IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a systemic vasculitis that predominantly affects children and can result in serious cardiovascular complications, especially in relation to the formation of coronary aneurysms. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy is the first-line treatment, being effective in reducing acute complications, including aneurysm formation. However, the long-term effects of IVIG in the treatment of KD are still poorly understood. This study aims to evaluate the cardiovascular and vascular outcomes in children treated with IVIG for KD, focusing especially on long-term consequences. The literature review included studies on the evolution of patients diagnosed with KD treated with IVIG, with emphasis on persistent vascular complications, such as early atherosclerosis, hypertension and coronary aneurysms. The findings indicate that, despite the initial efficacy of IVIG treatment, treated children may present persistent cardiovascular alterations that require continuous long-term monitoring. Furthermore, the importance of long-term cardiovascular monitoring strategies to prevent future cardiovascular complications was emphasized.