KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES OF DENTAL STUDENTS REGARDING THE INFECTIOUS NATURE OF KAWASAKI DISEASE

Nasrin Bazgir, Maryam Kazem Pour*

Introduction: Kawasaki disease is an important condition that, if not properly treated, can lead to coronary artery complications. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of assessing the awareness and attitudes of dental students regarding the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease. Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted in 2026 involving 96 dental students from Ilam city. The inclusion criteria for the study were dental students from the 2nd to 5th academic year in Ilam, who provided informed consent to participate. Incomplete questionnaires were the exclusion criteria. The instrument used consisted of Demographic Questionnaire and Kawasaki Disease Awareness and Attitude Questions. The total score for the attitude questions ranged from 20 to 100, where a higher score indicated a more positive attitude towards Kawasaki disease. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 16, employing descriptive statistical tests. Cronbach’s alpha test was also utilized to assess the reliability of the instruments. Result: Result showed, 96 dental students from Ilam city participated. Of these, 51 (53.1%) were male and 45 (46.9%) were female. In terms of educational year, 27 (28.1%) were in their second year, 25 (26%) in their third year, 22 (22.9%) in their fourth year, and 22 (22.9%) in their fifth year. Additionally, the mean (SD) knowledge score of dental students was 14.22 (2.16) out of 20. Also Result showed, regarding the awareness questions, the question that received the most correct answers was question number 20, concerning the necessity of cardiac consultation for patients with coronary artery involvement before dental procedures, with 87 (90.6%) respondents answering it correctly. Following question 20, most respondents answered question number 18 correctly. Specifically, 77 (80.2%) of dental students stated that after recovery from Kawasaki disease, periodic cardiovascular examinations are necessary, but this topic is unrelated to dental care. Regarding the questions related to attitude in the context of Kawasaki disease, most participants in the study emphasized the importance of factors such as effective communication with parents and physicians in managing patients suspected of Kawasaki disease, the need for continuous education and knowledge updates about Kawasaki disease for dentists, dentists’ awareness regarding the cardiac complications of Kawasaki disease, overlooking the oral manifestations of Kawasaki disease and mistaking these symptoms for other illnesses, and the need for special care (especially cardiac care) after oral treatments. Conclusion: Given that the awareness and attitude scores of dental students were not at a desirable level, it is recommended that interventional studies be conducted to enhance the awareness and attitude scores of these students.