Which finding is classically associated with Kawasaki disease?

• A. Cough
• B. Rash only
• C. Strawberry tongue
• D. Jaundice

Answer: (C)

Strawberry tongue signals the mucosal involvement that defines Kawasaki disease in children. The tongue becomes bright red with prominent, exposed papillae, giving a bumpy, strawberry-like appearance due to mucous membrane inflammation. This mucocutaneous change is a classic clue when the child also has fever and other signs such as red eyes, swollen hands or feet, a polymorphous rash, and cervical lymphadenopathy, all of which together point toward Kawasaki disease. Cough isn’t a typical mucocutaneous finding and would suggest other infections, while jaundice is not associated with this condition and would steer you toward liver-related issues. Recognizing strawberry tongue helps differentiate Kawasaki disease from other febrile illnesses, and early treatment with IVIG and aspirin reduces the risk of coronary artery aneurysms.