Last Updated on February 12, 2025 by tanya

 Delayed Diagnosis of Kawasaki Disease

 

Compensation With A Medical Negligence Claim

 

Delayed diagnosis of Kawasaki Disease can lead to a medical negligence claim as it is a serious condition which can be mistaken for other illnesses. Largely affecting children under the age of five, delayed diagnosis of Kawasaki Disease can result in severe complications.

First Personal Injury may be able to help if you are looking to claim for medical negligence in this regard. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

 

What is Kawasaki Disease?

 

Kawasaki Disease is an inflammatory condition that affects blood vessels throughout the body. While its exact cause remains unknown, it is thought to be triggered by an abnormal immune response, possibly due to an infection. Symptoms of KD typically occur in three phases:

 

• Acute Phase (1-2 weeks) – High fever (lasting more than five days), red eyes, rash, swollen hands and feet, and enlarged lymph nodes.
• Subacute Phase (2-4 weeks) – Peeling skin on fingers and toes, joint pain, irritability, and risk of developing heart complications.
• Convalescent Phase (4-8 weeks) – Symptoms gradually resolve, but inflammation can persist.

 

Causes of Delayed Diagnosis of Kawasaki Disease

Atypical Presentation

Some children with Kawasaki Disease do not present with the full set of classic symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis. Atypical or incomplete KD cases can lack key signs like rash or swollen lymph nodes.

Lack of Awareness Among Healthcare Providers

Although KD is one of the leading causes of acquired heart disease in children, it remains relatively rare. Many general practitioners (GPs) and emergency department staff may not be familiar with it. This may result in misdiagnosis as a viral infection, scarlet fever, or meningitis.

 

Overlapping Symptoms with Common Illnesses

 

The symptoms of Kawasaki Disease can resemble those of other common childhood illnesses, such as measles, strep throat, and viral infections. This overlap often results in misdiagnosis and delayed referral to specialists.

 

Consequences of Delayed Diagnosis

Increased Risk of Coronary Artery Complications

Delayed treatment of Kawasaki Disease significantly increases the risk of coronary artery aneurysms. So this can lead to long-term heart problems, including heart attacks.

Higher Need for Invasive Interventions

Children who do not receive timely treatment for Kawasaki may require long-term monitoring, anticoagulant therapy, or even surgical interventions such as coronary bypass surgery.

Long-Term Cardiac Issues

Children who suffer severe coronary artery damage may experience lifelong heart problems, requiring continuous medical supervision and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of future cardiovascular disease.

Emotional and Financial Burden on Families

A delayed diagnosis not only affects the child’s health but also places a significant emotional and financial burden on families. Frequent hospital visits, long-term medication, and lifestyle adjustments can impact both the child and their families.

 

Next Steps To Making A Claim

 

If your child has suffered from misdiagnosed Kawasaki Disease, First Personal Injury can guide you through the process to get the compensation you deserve. We work with experienced lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online for a free consultation.