Which of the following therapies would be appropriate for the acute management of Kawasaki disease?

• A. Aspirin
• B. IVIG
• C. Corticosteroids
• D. Antibiotics

Answer: (A)

The acute management of Kawasaki disease involves a current standard of care that includes the use of aspirin and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). Aspirin is beneficial during the acute phase of the illness because it has both anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties, helping to reduce fever and inflammation in affected children. It can also help prevent the formation of coronary artery aneurysms, a significant complication of Kawasaki disease.

While IVIG is a critical part of the management protocol for Kawasaki disease and is typically administered alongside aspirin, it's important to note that in terms of immediate symptom relief, aspirin remains pivotal. Corticosteroids and antibiotics are not standard treatments in the acute management of Kawasaki disease. Corticosteroids may be used in certain cases, especially when there's a risk of severe complications or when the patient doesn't respond adequately to IVIG and aspirin alone. However, the initial approach prioritizes aspirin and IVIG. Antibiotics are not indicated unless there is an additional bacterial infection, as Kawasaki disease itself is not caused by bacteria.

Thus, in the setting of acute management, aspirin is indeed an appropriate therapy for addressing several of the symptoms and complications associated with Kawasaki disease.