What does the "C" in the CREAM criteria for Kawasaki disease stand for?

The "C" in the CREAM criteria for Kawasaki disease stands for conjunctivitis. Kawasaki disease is an acute, self-limited vasculitis that primarily affects children and is characterized by a constellation of symptoms. The CREAM mnemonic is a useful tool to remember the key clinical features associated with the disease.

Conjunctivitis in this context refers to the bilateral, non-purulent conjunctival injection that is commonly observed in patients with Kawasaki disease. This symptom typically manifests early in the illness and is one of the hallmark signs that healthcare professionals look for when diagnosing Kawasaki disease. The presence of conjunctivitis, along with other criteria such as rash, extremity changes, fever, and mucosal changes, helps clinicians identify and manage this condition effectively.

Understanding the significance of conjunctivitis in Kawasaki disease is crucial, as timely recognition and treatment are important to prevent potential complications, such as coronary artery aneurysms.