In a toddler diagnosed with Kawasaki disease, which finding is expected regarding vital signs?

In a toddler diagnosed with Kawasaki disease, an increased temperature is a hallmark finding. Kawasaki disease is characterized by prolonged fever lasting more than five days, often exceeding 39°C (102.2°F). This elevated temperature is one of the key diagnostic criteria for the disease, along with other symptoms such as rash, conjunctivitis, lymphadenopathy, and changes in the lips and oral cavity.

The presence of fever in Kawasaki disease is indicative of the inflammatory process occurring in the body as a result of the disease affecting the blood vessels and is a crucial sign for healthcare providers to monitor. The fever typically does not respond well to conventional antipyretics, which can also be a distinguishing factor.

Other choices do not represent expected vital sign findings in this condition. For instance, gingival hyperplasia is not generally associated with Kawasaki disease. Xerophthalmia refers to dry eyes, which is also not related to Kawasaki disease. Bradycardia, which means a slower than normal heart rate, would not be a typical finding in Kawasaki disease, as the disease is more commonly associated with tachycardia due to fever and systemic inflammation.