A Case of Incomplete Kawasaki Disease Resembling a Retropharyngeal Abscess

Abstract

Kawasaki disease, also known as acute febrile mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is a systemic vasculitis of unknown etiology. We report a rare case of incomplete Kawasaki disease in a 24-month-old male infant presenting with swelling of the right neck. CT showed ring enhancement in the retropharyngeal space. Based on the findings, we made the clinical diagnosis of retropharyngeal abscess. Puncture drainage via the oral approach was performed with ultrasonographic guidance under general anesthesia. The symptom was relieved immediately and the patient was discharged six days after the operation.

It is necessary to consider the possibility of incomplete Kawasaki disease in a patient presenting with neck swelling suggestive of a retropharyngeal abscess.