What is a key diagnostic feature of Kawasaki syndrome?

A key diagnostic feature of Kawasaki syndrome is the presence of a fever lasting at least five days along with at least four of the five classic symptoms: conjunctival injection, rash, changes in the lips and oral cavity (such as fissured lips or strawberry tongue), cervical lymphadenopathy, and palm or sole erythema. The fever is a critical component that initiates the diagnostic evaluation, serving as an important clinical marker.

Understanding that a combination of fever and these specific symptoms is crucial for diagnosis helps differentiate Kawasaki syndrome from other febrile illnesses in children. This syndrome can lead to serious complications, particularly concerning coronary artery involvement, making timely recognition and diagnosis essential for optimal treatment and management.