Hydrogen Gas Inhalation Regressed Coronary Artery Aneurysm in Kawasaki Disease-Case Report and Article Review.

Abstract

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a systemic vasculitis predominantly affecting children under 5 years of age and represents a leading cause of acquired cardiac complications in developed nations, especially across Asia. This case describes a 10-year-old patient diagnosed with incomplete KD on day 12 of illness, presenting with a right coronary artery aneurysm measuring 6.08 mm in diameter and 35 mm in length. Following intravenous immunoglobulin administration, the patient's family initiated home-based hydrogen gas inhalation (77% H2, 23% O2) via nasal cannula for 1 hour daily. At the 4-month follow-up (day 138), complete regression of the aneurysm was documented, with all laboratory parameters—including complete blood count, electrolytes, liver enzymes, and renal function—remaining within normal limits. No adverse events were observed. The authors propose that hydrogen's free radical-scavenging and antioxidant properties may have contributed to aneurysm resolution, while emphasizing the need for further controlled investigation.

Mechanism

Hydrogen gas is proposed to selectively neutralize reactive oxygen species, particularly hydroxyl radicals, thereby reducing vascular inflammation and potentially facilitating regression of coronary artery aneurysms in Kawasaki disease.