Laboratory findings

Laboratory findings - The Kawasaki Code

• Acute phase reactants: Markedly elevated.
  • • ↑ ESR (>40 mm/hr)
  • • ↑ CRP (>3 mg/dL)
• Complete Blood Count (CBC):
  • • Leukocytosis (>15,000/μL) with neutrophilia.
  • • Normocytic, normochromic anemia.
  • • Thrombocytosis (platelets >450,000/μL) is a hallmark, peaking in the 2nd-3rd week.
• Other common findings:
  • • ↑ Liver transaminases (ALT).
  • • Sterile pyuria.
  • • Hypoalbuminemia (<3 g/dL).

⭐ Hyponatremia and hypoalbuminemia are associated with a higher risk of developing coronary artery aneurysms.

High‑Yield Points - ⚡ Biggest Takeaways

• Thrombocytosis is the most characteristic finding, peaking in the 2nd-3rd week.
• ↑ ESR & ↑ CRP are universal but non-specific inflammatory markers.
• Sterile pyuria (WBCs in urine without bacteria) is a classic clue.
• Aseptic meningitis and ↑ liver enzymes (transaminitis) are common.
• Normocytic, normochromic anemia is often present.
• Hyponatremia and hypoalbuminemia can also be seen, indicating severe inflammation.