Kawasaki Disease Across the Ages: What Parents and Families Should Know
The 2025 Mount Sinai Kawasaki Disease Conference brought together leading clinicians and researchers to explore how Kawasaki Disease affects patients throughout their entire lifespan. This year’s theme, “Across the Ages,” emphasized long-term heart health, emerging research, and how families can stay informed and empowered at every stage of their child’s journey.
Key Takeaways for Families
Early diagnosis matters.
Experts stressed that recognizing Kawasaki Disease quickly—especially in very young children—is essential. Prompt treatment dramatically reduces the risk of long-term heart complications.
Heart health requires lifelong attention.
Even after recovery, many children who have had KD benefit from ongoing cardiac monitoring into adulthood. Some may face late-emerging issues such as aneurysms, calcium buildup, or artery blockages, making continued follow-up important.
Support is crucial during healthcare transitions.
Moving from pediatric to adult cardiology can be confusing for teens and young adults. To help families navigate this stage, the Kawasaki Disease Foundation introduced a new healthcare transition tool—and we’re actively working toward developing it into an app for easier use.
Pregnancy needs thoughtful coordination.
Women with a history of KD may require specialized monitoring during pregnancy. Collaboration between cardiologists and maternal–fetal medicine specialists helps ensure safe outcomes for both mother and baby.
Innovation is improving diagnosis and monitoring.
New imaging technologies and data tools are helping clinicians better understand KD’s long-term effects on the heart, allowing for more proactive and precise care.
Team-based care makes a difference.
KD patients benefit most from coordinated care among cardiologists, primary care physicians, and other specialists. Families play a vital role in facilitating communication and advocating for their child’s needs.
Questions You Can Ask Your Child’s Cardiologist
- Does my child need regular heart imaging or testing as they grow older?
- What symptoms should we watch for that might signal a heart complication?
- How will my child’s care change as they transition to adult healthcare?
- What should we know if my child plans to become pregnant in the future?
- Are additional specialists recommended for long-term follow-up?
- Is there a structured care plan in place for adulthood?
Final Thoughts
Kawasaki Disease doesn’t end when the fever does. With lifelong awareness, appropriate follow-up, and strong partnerships with healthcare providers, children can grow into healthy, thriving adults. The Mount Sinai conference serves as an important reminder that informed families are powerful advocates—and that knowledge across the ages leads to better outcomes for every KD survivor.