Refractory Kawasaki Disease With a Giant Aneurysm Successfully Treated With Infliximab and Enoxaparin: A Case Report

J Pediatr Health Care. 2024 Oct 26:S0891-5245(24)00257-8. doi: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2024.09.001. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Kawasaki disease (KD) is the most common vasculitis in children, and can result in the development of coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) if not properly managed. While intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin are standard first-line treatments, refractory KD may develop, increasing the risk of coronary complications. Herein, we report the case of a young girl with KD who initially responded to IVIG, but later developed a giant CAA, despite additional treatments. Infliximab stabilized her condition, and one year later, the CAA remained stable without thrombus formation. This case demonstrates that clinical appearance, particularly fever, may not fully reflect the patient's condition, as fever can subside immediately after treatment, but may relapse days later, underscoring the need for vigilant monitoring.

Keywords: Intravenous immunoglobulin resistance; anticoagulant; coronary artery complication.