Kawasaki Syndrome and Streptococcal Scarlet Fever: A Clinical Review

Abstract

Kawasaki syndrome and rheumatic heart disease, a consequence of group A streptococcal infection, are the first and second leading causes of acquired heart disease in children in the United States. Kawasaki syndrome and streptococcal scarlet fever manifest in clinically similar ways, and it is important for the nurse practitioner to recognize the distinguishing features of these 2 diagnoses. Prompt identification and management of both disease processes can mitigate the risk for developing associated cardiac sequelae.