Searching for the cause of Kawasaki disease--cytoplasmic inclusion bodies provide new insight

Nat Rev Microbiol. 2008 May;6(5):394-401. doi: 10.1038/nrmicro1853.

Abstract

Kawasaki disease (KD) has emerged as the most common cause of acquired heart disease in children in the developed world. The cause of KD remains unknown, although an as-yet unidentified infectious agent might be responsible. By determining the causative agent, we can improve diagnosis, therapy and prevention of KD. Recently, identification of an antigen-driven IgA response that was directed at cytoplasmic inclusion bodies in KD tissues has provided new insights that could unlock the mysteries of KD.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antigens / analysis
  • Antigens / immunology
  • Child
  • Coronary Aneurysm / immunology
  • Coronary Aneurysm / pathology
  • Cytoplasm / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin A / analysis
  • Immunoglobulin A / immunology*
  • Inclusion Bodies / immunology*
  • Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome / complications
  • Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome / immunology*
  • Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome / pathology
  • Plasma Cells / immunology

Substances

  • Antigens
  • Immunoglobulin A