What symptom is NOT used in diagnosing Kawasaki disease?

Kawasaki disease is primarily diagnosed based on a combination of clinical symptoms, particularly those that involve the skin, eyes, mucous membranes, and lymphatic system. The presence of symptoms such as peripheral edema, bilateral conjunctivitis, and cervical lymphadenopathy are all consistent with Kawasaki disease.

Peripheral edema can manifest in the extremities, often observed as swelling of the hands and feet, which is common in children with this condition. Bilateral conjunctivitis refers to the inflammation of both eyes, often leading to redness and discharge, and is another hallmark symptom of Kawasaki disease. Cervical lymphadenopathy indicates swollen lymph nodes in the neck, which is frequently seen due to the inflammatory process associated with this condition.

In contrast, pneumonia is not a symptom of Kawasaki disease. While children with Kawasaki may experience respiratory illness, pneumonia itself is not a diagnostic criterion or a typical symptom of the disease. The focus for diagnosis lies in the classic symptoms associated with Kawasaki and a careful assessment of any signs that fit within its clinical framework. Thus, pneumonia does not fit within the constellation of symptoms used to diagnose this specific condition.