Which of the following is a classic symptom of Kawasaki disease?

Kawasaki disease is a pediatric condition characterized by inflammation of blood vessels throughout the body. One of the hallmark symptoms of this disease is a prolonged fever lasting more than five days. This symptom is critical in diagnosing Kawasaki disease because it distinguishes it from other febrile illnesses. The fever often has a high temperature and is persistent despite treatment, which can raise concerns if not recognized early.

Other symptoms of Kawasaki disease may include rash, conjunctivitis, changes in the lips and oral cavity, and lymphadenopathy, but the duration of the fever is one of the key criteria used to establish a diagnosis. Recognizing this symptom is vital for timely intervention and management to prevent serious complications such as coronary artery aneurysms, which can result from untreated Kawasaki disease.