Imaging in Kawasaki Disease: The Past, Present, and Future

Abstract Kawasaki disease (KD) has continued to captivate clinicians for the last five decades or so. The presentation, progression, and prognostication of this entity are evolving into fascinating new directions. The American Heart Association has recently published an updated scientific statement in 2024 on the diagnosis and management of KD. The key points pivot around cardiac, especially coronary, involvement. The role of imaging, in the acute phase and on long-term follow-up, has been emphasized. Algorithmic approach to primary therapy, early intensification of primary immunotherapy in high-risk cases, comparative analysis of various types of immunomodulators in the pediatric age group versus the gold standard intravenous immunoglobulin, newer oral anticoagulants, and management of post-KD myocardial infarction are some of the new directives, along with discussion on the transition of care from pediatric to adult cardiologist.