An infant with Kawasaki disease having gastrointestinal bleeding due to multiple gastric ulcers

Abstract

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic vasculitis managed mainly through intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), aspirin, and steroids. Although gastrointestinal symptoms are common, gastrointestinal bleeding is rare. We present the case of an 11-month-old girl with incomplete KD who developed severe gastrointestinal bleeding due to multiple gastric ulcers, despite prophylactic H2-receptor antagonist therapy, requiring blood transfusion therapy. This case illustrates that gastrointestinal bleeding can occur as a direct consequence of KD and from the combined effects of corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It emphasizes the need for vigilant monitoring and further research to efficiently prevent gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with KD.