A nurse is caring for a child who has Kawasaki disease. Which of the following systems is primarily affected by this disease?

Kawasaki disease is a systemic vasculitis of unknown etiology that primarily affects the cardiovascular system, particularly the coronary arteries. The most serious complication is the formation of coronary artery aneurysms, which can lead to myocardial infarction, thrombosis, or sudden cardiac death if left untreated. The disease is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed countries. While Kawasaki disease does produce widespread symptoms including rash, conjunctivitis, lymphadenopathy, and mucous membrane changes that involve the integumentary and other systems, the cardiovascular system is the system of primary clinical concern and the focus of management with intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin therapy. The gastrointestinal system can be mildly affected, with some children experiencing abdominal pain or diarrhea, but this is not the primary system involved. The respiratory system is generally not a major target of Kawasaki disease. The integumentary system shows characteristic signs such as polymorphous rash and peeling of the fingertips, but these are manifestations rather than the primary system at risk for life-threatening damage.