RDW-CV Linked To Coronary Artery Disease In Pediatric Patients With Kawasaki Disease, Study Finds

Rheumatology Advisor (5/13, Kuhns) reports a study found that “red blood cell distribution width-coefficient of variation (RDW-CV) is an independent predictor of coronary artery disease (CAD) among children with Kawasaki disease, and its elevation is associated with lower hemoglobin and ferritin levels.” In multivariate analyses, researchers said that “RDW-CV remained a significant independent predictor of CAD.” The study authors concluded, “The observed association between RDW-CV and markers of iron metabolism, particularly in the CAD group, indicates that iron dysregulation may be a contributing factor in the pathophysiology of CAD.” The study was published in Pediatric Rheumatology.