KAWASAKI SYNDROME: PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS AND CHALLENGES IN EARLY DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Abstract

The objective of this study was to understand the main pathophysiological aspects and the challenges related to the early diagnosis and treatment of Kawasaki Syndrome, an acute vasculitis that predominantly affects children under 5 years of age. This is an integrative literature review with a descriptive-exploratory design, conducted between February and August 2025 in the Virtual Health Library (VHL). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, considering publications in Portuguese, available in full, and published between 2019 and 2025. Ninety-one articles were identified, of which only seven met the established criteria and formed the basis for analysis. The results show that the pathophysiology of the disease is associated with an exacerbated immune response in genetically predisposed individuals, leading to vascular inflammation and potential cardiac complications. Diagnosis remains clinical due to the absence of specific laboratory markers, and treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin has proven essential to reduce the occurrence of coronary aneurysms. The conclusion is that, despite advances, diagnostic challenges and gaps in the national literature persist. Expanding studies focused on biomarkers, alternative therapeutic strategies, and professional training is essential to improve clinical approaches and reduce childhood morbidity and mortality associated with Kawasaki syndrome.