What does the "E" in the Kawasaki disease criteria represent?

Kawasaki disease is an acute, self-limited vasculitis primarily affecting children and is characterized by a specific set of clinical criteria. The "E" in the criteria refers to "Edema, Extremity changes," which encompasses the swelling and changes in the extremities that are hallmark features of the disease. Affected children often present with noticeable changes in the hands and feet, which may include erythema (redness) of the palms and soles as well as swelling of the hands and feet.

This aspect is crucial for diagnosing Kawasaki disease, as it is one of the five key clinical features used to distinguish the condition. The presence of edema and changes in the extremities, combined with the other symptoms such as fever, rash, conjunctivitis, and cervical lymphadenopathy, guides healthcare professionals in confirming a diagnosis. These clinical criteria are important, as timely identification and treatment are necessary to prevent complications such as coronary artery aneurysms.