Kawasaki Disease in Germany

Abstract

A substantial number of incomplete KD cases were diagnosed based on the laboratory and echocardiographic criteria only. This was particularly the case in relation to infants younger than 1 year-an age group known to have an increased risk of developing coronary aneurysms. In addition, we found a high rate of underreporting to national Pediatric Surveillance Units. We suggest that improved surveillance and development of better diagnostic tests remain a high priority.