Biochemical and immunological laboratory findings in Kawasaki disease

There is no specific diagnostic test for Kawasaki disease, but certain laboratory findings are characteristics. In acute phase of Kawasaki disease, neutrophils with toxic granules, CRP, ESR are elevated. The platelet count is generally normal in the 1st week of illness and rapidly increases by the 2nd-3rd week of illness. The hepatic transaminases, total cholesterol, LDL, and total bilirubin are increased in the acute stage. On the other hand, total protein, albumin and sodium are generally decreased during 1st-2nd week of illness. Sterile pyuria and cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis may be present. Moreover, the cytokines, the growth factors, and the adhesion molecules are elevated according to the intensity of vasculitis.