In Kawasaki disease, what does the "M" in the CREAM criteria stand for?

In the context of Kawasaki disease, the "M" in the CREAM criteria stands for mucosal involvement or mucositis. This criterion refers to changes or lesions occurring in the mucosal areas, particularly in the oral cavity, which may include findings such as fissured lips, strawberry tongue, and injections of the conjunctiva. These mucosal manifestations are essential for diagnosis, as they occur alongside other symptoms that characterize Kawasaki disease, such as fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, and changes in the extremities.

Mucosal involvement is a distinct feature that helps differentiate Kawasaki disease from other illnesses with similar presentations. Recognizing these signs is key for clinicians to diagnose and manage Kawasaki disease promptly to prevent complications such as coronary artery aneurysms.