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ABSTRACT
Kawasaki disease (KD) is one of the most common vasculitis disorders of childhood, affecting predominantly medium-sized arteries, particularly the coronary arteries. For treatment, high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is indicated. IVIG infusions are usually safe and well tolerated even though serious complications can be observed. We present a brief overview of KD and report a two-year-old girl with KD and two IVIG infusions (Gammagard®) because of persistent fever after the completion of the first IVIG. Haemolytic anaemia developed after IVIG retreatment. The direct antiglobulin test after haemolysis was positive. The etiology of the haemolysis was related to the presence of transient, passively acquired antibodies that cause a direct antibody-mediated attack. There are few reports of haemolytic anaemia after IVIG infusions. The haemolysis in KD is dose-dependent and occurs more frequently after the second IVIG dose. Non-0 blood group patients are at greater risk. Another factor increasing the risk of haemolysis is also the presence of anaemia due to inflammation in KD.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.