Latest Kawasaki disease Stories

Significant Step in Merck's Efforts to Expand Global Access to Rotavirus Vaccine Media: Nalini Saligram, 215-652-9232 Amy Rose, 908-423-6537 OR Investors: Eva Boratto, 908-423-5185 ROTATEQ(R) (rotavirus vaccine, live, oral, pentavalent), the pentavalent rotavirus vaccine from Merck & Co., Inc., that helps prevent rotavirus gastroenteritis in infants and children, has been awarded pre-qualification status by the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO pre-qualification allows for expanded...

By Schick, Michael Despite many extraordinary advances, molecular imaging remains among the best-kept secrets in health care. Many physicians and many more patients are not convinced of the value of newer molecular imaging procedures over more familiar diagnostic approaches. Part of the problem is a lack of understanding about precisely what constitutes molecular imaging and molecular medicine and what the benefits are on a scientific and human level. The evidence of this value, particularly...

By Megan Rauscher NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Not all commercially available preparations of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), an antibody therapy, are equally effective in children with Kawasaki disease, an immune system disorder that can cause fever, rash, and possible complications of the heart and brain, new research shows. The findings are based on a study of 437 children with the disease who were treated with one of four IVIG brands. "Physicians should be cautious when using...

When added to standard treatment, steroids significantly reduce the odds of developing heart damage in children with Kawasaki's disease, according to a study in the October issue of Pediatrics. These findings address a gap in knowledge. Current guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics state that the evidence for steroid treatment is lacking and recommend the standard treatment for Kawasaki's, which is aspirin and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). "This gap in knowledge led us...