Which imaging study is used to monitor for coronary involvement in Kawasaki disease?

• A. Brain MRI
• B. Echocardiography
• C. Abdominal ultrasound
• D. Chest X-ray

Answer: (B)

Coronary involvement is a key concern in Kawasaki disease because it can lead to aneurysms and ischemia. Echocardiography is the imaging study used to monitor this because it uses ultrasound to visualize the proximal coronary arteries and detect dilation or aneurysm formation, while also assessing heart function and any pericardial effusion. It’s noninvasive and can be repeated over time to track changes and guide management, such as IVIG therapy and antiplatelet treatment. Other imaging options like brain MRI, abdominal ultrasound, or chest X-ray don’t directly visualize the coronary arteries and aren’t reliable for detecting coronary involvement.