Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Acute Rheumatic Fever: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/236582-overview

  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a sequela of streptococcal infection typically following 2 to 3 weeks after group A streptococcal pharyngitis that occurs most commonly in children and has rheumatologic, cardiac, and neurologic manifestations. […] In temperate climates, ARF typically follows pharyngitis from certain strains of group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). The overall rate of ARF after streptococcal pharyngitis is 0.3-3%. However, genetically predisposed individuals, comprising perhaps 3%-6% of the population, account for those who develop rheumatic fever. […] The group A streptococcal strains associated with ARF are heavily encapsulated and rich in M protein (signifying virulence). Of the 230 serotypes of group A Streptococcus, the classic rheumatogenic strains include emm types 1, 3, 5, 6, 14, 18, 19, 24, 27, and 29. More recent data suggest that many other group A emm types may also be involved.

• #2 Rheumatic fever: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003940.htm

  Rheumatic fever is a disease that may develop after an infection with group A streptococcus bacteria (such as strep throat or scarlet fever). It occurs after infections with a germ or bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes or group A streptococcus. This germ appears to trick the immune system into attacking healthy tissues in the body. These tissues become swollen or inflamed. […] Rheumatic fever is still common in countries that have a lot of poverty and poor health systems. It does not often occur in the United States and other developed countries. When rheumatic fever does occur in the United States, it is most often in small outbreaks. The latest outbreak in the United States was in the 1980s.

• #3 Acute rheumatic fever: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis – UpToDate

  https://www.uptodate.com/contents/acute-rheumatic-fever-clinical-manifestations-and-diagnosis

  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a nonsuppurative sequela that occurs two to four weeks following group A Streptococcus (GAS) pharyngitis and may consist of arthritis, carditis, chorea, erythema marginatum, and subcutaneous nodules. […] Damage to cardiac valves may be chronic and progressive, resulting in cardiac decompensation.

• #4 Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease – Streptococcus pyogenes – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425394/

  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) results from the body’s autoimmune response to a throat infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as the group A Streptococcus bacteria. […] The development of ARF occurs approximately two weeks after S. pyogenes infection. […] Risk factors for ARF and RHD include age, gender, and various environmental factors. […] Environmental factors affect the prevalence of ARF by increasing exposure to S. pyogenes infections. A major environmental factor that increases the likelihood of ARF is household crowding, which facilitates the spread of S. pyogenes infections. […] The pathogenic mechanisms of ARF are not completely understood. […] In order for ARF to occur, it appears that a pharyngeal infection caused by S. pyogenes must occur in a host with a genetic susceptibility to the disease.

• #5 Acute Rheumatic Fever: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/236582-overview

  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a sequela of streptococcal infection typically following 2 to 3 weeks after group A streptococcal pharyngitis that occurs most commonly in children and has rheumatologic, cardiac, and neurologic manifestations. […] In temperate climates, ARF typically follows pharyngitis from certain strains of group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). The overall rate of ARF after streptococcal pharyngitis is 0.3-3%. However, genetically predisposed individuals, comprising perhaps 3%-6% of the population, account for those who develop rheumatic fever. […] The group A streptococcal strains associated with ARF are heavily encapsulated and rich in M protein (signifying virulence). Of the 230 serotypes of group A Streptococcus, the classic rheumatogenic strains include emm types 1, 3, 5, 6, 14, 18, 19, 24, 27, and 29. More recent data suggest that many other group A emm types may also be involved.

• #6 Acute Rheumatic Fever: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/236582-overview

  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a sequela of streptococcal infection typically following 2 to 3 weeks after group A streptococcal pharyngitis that occurs most commonly in children and has rheumatologic, cardiac, and neurologic manifestations. […] In temperate climates, ARF typically follows pharyngitis from certain strains of group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). The overall rate of ARF after streptococcal pharyngitis is 0.3-3%. However, genetically predisposed individuals, comprising perhaps 3%-6% of the population, account for those who develop rheumatic fever. […] The group A streptococcal strains associated with ARF are heavily encapsulated and rich in M protein (signifying virulence). Of the 230 serotypes of group A Streptococcus, the classic rheumatogenic strains include emm types 1, 3, 5, 6, 14, 18, 19, 24, 27, and 29. More recent data suggest that many other group A emm types may also be involved.

• #7 Acute Rheumatic Fever: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/236582-overview

  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a sequela of streptococcal infection typically following 2 to 3 weeks after group A streptococcal pharyngitis that occurs most commonly in children and has rheumatologic, cardiac, and neurologic manifestations. […] In temperate climates, ARF typically follows pharyngitis from certain strains of group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). The overall rate of ARF after streptococcal pharyngitis is 0.3-3%. However, genetically predisposed individuals, comprising perhaps 3%-6% of the population, account for those who develop rheumatic fever. […] The group A streptococcal strains associated with ARF are heavily encapsulated and rich in M protein (signifying virulence). Of the 230 serotypes of group A Streptococcus, the classic rheumatogenic strains include emm types 1, 3, 5, 6, 14, 18, 19, 24, 27, and 29. More recent data suggest that many other group A emm types may also be involved.

• #8 What is Rheumatic Fever? What Causes This Strep Throat Complication?

  https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/understanding-rheumatic-fever-basics

  Rheumatic fever happens when your body reacts to certain group A streptococcus bacteria. Instead of just fighting off the bacteria, your body’s antibodies mistakenly attack your own tissues. This starts with the joints and can then affect the heart and nearby tissues. A very small number of people who have strep throat, less than 0.3%, end up getting rheumatic fever. Experts believe there are other factors involved too, like having a weak immune system. You can also get rheumatic fever if you don’t treat a scarlet fever infection. […] About 0.3%-3% of people with a strep throat infection develop rheumatic fever, even without treatment. […] Rheumatic fever is a rare but serious bacterial illness that can result from untreated strep throat or scarlet fever.

• #9 Acute Rheumatic Fever: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/236582-overview

  However, in Aboriginal communities of Australia, where reported rates of ARF and rheumatic heart disease are among the highest in the world, throat colonization with group A Streptococcus is uncommon, and symptomatic group A Streptococcus pharyngitis is rare; skin infection (pyoderma) is the major manifestation of group A streptococcal infection. […] Scabies can lead to skin sores and secondary streptococcal infection, providing a pathway to ARF. […] A study from New Zealand documented that children who had been diagnosed with scabies were 23 times more likely to develop ARF or chronic rheumatic heart disease, compared with children who had no scabies diagnosis.

• #10 Acute Rheumatic Fever: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/236582-overview

  However, in Aboriginal communities of Australia, where reported rates of ARF and rheumatic heart disease are among the highest in the world, throat colonization with group A Streptococcus is uncommon, and symptomatic group A Streptococcus pharyngitis is rare; skin infection (pyoderma) is the major manifestation of group A streptococcal infection. […] Scabies can lead to skin sores and secondary streptococcal infection, providing a pathway to ARF. […] A study from New Zealand documented that children who had been diagnosed with scabies were 23 times more likely to develop ARF or chronic rheumatic heart disease, compared with children who had no scabies diagnosis.

• #11 Rheumatic fever – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rheumatic_fever

  Rheumatic fever may occur following an infection of the throat by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes. […] The underlying mechanism is believed to involve the production of antibodies against a person’s own tissues. […] Due to their genetics, some people are more likely to get the disease when exposed to the bacteria than others. […] Other risk factors include malnutrition and poverty. […] The risk of severe complications is the primary concern with strep throat, and the reason why it is so important to be properly diagnosed and treated. One of the most serious complications is rheumatic fever, a disease that affects up to 3 percent of those with untreated strep infection. Rheumatic fever can lead to rheumatic heart disease. […] Chronic rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is characterized by repeated inflammation with fibrinous repair.

• #12 Rheumatic fever | UM Health-Sparrow

  https://www.uofmhealthsparrow.org/departments-conditions/conditions/rheumatic-fever

  Rheumatic fever can happen after a throat infection from group A streptococcus bacteria, also called strep bacteria. The bacteria cause strep throat and scarlet fever. Improperly treated strep throat or scarlet fever infections cause rheumatic fever. […] How a strep infection causes rheumatic fever isn’t clear. It may be that the bacteria trick the body’s immune system into attacking healthy tissue. This usually happens in the heart, joints, skin and central nervous system. The incorrect immune system reaction causes swelling of joints and tissues. This swelling is called inflammation.

• #13 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms (Rash) & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16616-rheumatic-fever

  Rheumatic fever is an autoimmune condition that inflames your childs tissues, such as their joints and heart. It occurs when your childs immune system overreacts to an untreated strep throat or scarlet fever infection. […] Rheumatic fever is a rare autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of your childs tissues and organs. The condition occurs when your childs immune system overreacts to an untreated strep throat or scarlet fever infection. […] Rheumatic fever is an overreaction of your childs immune system that causes it to fight healthy tissues. An untreated strep throat or scarlet fever infection can trigger this overreaction. It happens when your child doesnt receive antibiotic treatment for group A Streptococcus infections. […] Most people who get strep throat or scarlet fever dont develop rheumatic fever. It only happens when children dont receive treatment for the infections. Even then, rheumatic fever is exceedingly rare in the U.S. […] Rheumatic fever is a rare complication of untreated strep throat or scarlet fever.

• #14 Rheumatic fever – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rheumatic_fever

  It is caused by an autoimmune reaction to Group A -hemolytic streptococci (GAS) that results in valvular damage. […] The complicated pathogenesis of RHD is not fully understood, though it has been observed to use molecular mimicry via group A streptococci carbohydrates and genetic predisposition involving HLA Class II genes that trigger autoimmune reactions. […] Molecular mimicry occurs when epitopes are shared between host antigens and Streptococcus antigens. […] This causes an autoimmune reaction against native tissues in the heart that are incorrectly recognized as „foreign” due to the cross-reactivity of antibodies generated as a result of epitope sharing.

• #15 Acute rheumatic fever – Knowledge @ AMBOSS

  https://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/acute-rheumatic-fever/

  Previous infection with group A hemolytic streptococcus (GAS), also referred to as Streptococcus pyogenes. […] The exact pathogenesis is not yet entirely understood. […] Most commonly accepted mechanism involves the following: acute tonsillitis/pharyngitis caused by GAS without antibiotic treatment development of antibodies against streptococcal M protein cross-reaction of antibodies with nerve and myocardial proteins (most commonly myosins) due to molecular mimicry type II hypersensitivity reaction acute inflammatory sequela.

• #16 Rheumatic fever: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/176648

  Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory reaction. It can develop as a complication of a Group A streptococcal infection, such as strep throat or scarlet fever. Rheumatic fever occurs when the infection has been untreated or undertreated. […] The main cause of RF is Group A streptococcus (GAS), a bacteria that can cause infections such as Strep throat with or without scarlet fever and skin infections like impetigo, and cellulitis. […] However, not all strains of streptococcal bacteria will lead to RF, and not everyone who has a GAS infection will develop RF. […] The exact link between group A strep infection and RF remains unclear, but scientists believe that it is not the bacteria itself that causes the disease, but rather the immune systems faulty reaction to it. […] In RF, the tissues that they attack are those of the heart, joints, central nervous system (CNS) and skin. These tissues react by becoming inflamed. […] If a patient with Strep bacteria takes a complete course of antibiotic treatment, the chances of RF developing are very low.

• #17 Rheumatic Fever Diagnosis, Symptoms, Treatment & Causes

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/rheumatic_fever/article_em.htm

  Rheumatic fever is a complication of a streptococcal pharyngitis infection (strep throat) that can cause damage to the heart, joints, brain, and skin. […] Rheumatic fever is preventable by treating strep throat with antibiotics, usually penicillin. If a patient is allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics such as erythromycin or clindamycin can be used. […] While it is not completely clear, rheumatic fever seems to be caused by a process called „molecular mimicry.” […] During infection with certain types (or strains) of group A streptococcal bacteria, the proteins on the bacteria appear similar to proteins in the human body. […] Because of this similarity, the immune system begins to attack human cells with similar proteins, such as heart muscle, joints, skin, and sometimes brain tissue.

• #18 Rheumatic fever | UM Health-Sparrow

  https://www.uofmhealthsparrow.org/departments-conditions/conditions/rheumatic-fever

  Rheumatic fever can happen after a throat infection from group A streptococcus bacteria, also called strep bacteria. The bacteria cause strep throat and scarlet fever. Improperly treated strep throat or scarlet fever infections cause rheumatic fever. […] How a strep infection causes rheumatic fever isn’t clear. It may be that the bacteria trick the body’s immune system into attacking healthy tissue. This usually happens in the heart, joints, skin and central nervous system. The incorrect immune system reaction causes swelling of joints and tissues. This swelling is called inflammation.

• #19 Rheumatic fever | healthdirect

  https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/rheumatic-fever

  Rheumatic fever is an illness that can occur after an infection with group A streptococcus (strep A). […] Rheumatic fever is caused by your body’s immune response to the Strep A infection. […] In some people, the body’s immune system gets confused, and they have an autoimmune reaction to the infection. […] An autoimmune reaction is when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. This causes inflammation, which causes the symptoms of rheumatic fever.

• #20 Acute rheumatic fever – Knowledge @ AMBOSS

  https://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/acute-rheumatic-fever/

  Previous infection with group A hemolytic streptococcus (GAS), also referred to as Streptococcus pyogenes. […] The exact pathogenesis is not yet entirely understood. […] Most commonly accepted mechanism involves the following: acute tonsillitis/pharyngitis caused by GAS without antibiotic treatment development of antibodies against streptococcal M protein cross-reaction of antibodies with nerve and myocardial proteins (most commonly myosins) due to molecular mimicry type II hypersensitivity reaction acute inflammatory sequela.

• #21 Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease – Streptococcus pyogenes – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425394/

  There are a number of lines of evidence that suggest molecular mimicry plays a role in the development of carditis by stimulating both humoral and cellular cross-reactive immune responses. […] Acute rheumatic fever is a highly heritable disease, with frequent cases observed in family members, including twins. […] It is most likely that susceptibility to ARF is polygenic. Polymorphisms in several genes coding for immune proteins have been associated with ARF susceptibility. […] The most significant sequelae to S. pyogenes infection are ARF and RHD, and there are many strategies available to prevent these diseases. […] The challenge is to ensure that they are available in all settings, including resource-constrained environments, and that novel strategies are explored to help eliminate or eradicate ARF and RHD.

• #22 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Diagnostic Criteria

  https://www.medicinenet.com/rheumatic_fever/article.htm

  Rheumatic fever (acute rheumatic fever or ARF) is an autoimmune disease that may occur after a group A streptococcal (GAS) throat infection. Such a reaction to strep throat causes inflammatory lesions in the connective tissue, heart, joints, and blood vessels of various organs and subcutaneous tissue. […] There is a direct and well-described connection between certain streptococcal infections and rheumatic fever. Most commonly, rheumatic fever is preceded by a throat infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus bacteria (strep throat, GABHS, or GAS). The bacterium causes an autoimmune (antibodies that attack the host’s own cells) inflammatory response in some people, which leads to the myriad signs and symptoms of rheumatic fever. […] It is still not fully understood why some people develop an abnormal immune response to group A streptococcus bacteria, while others do not. However, it is believed that certain factors may increase the risk of developing acute rheumatic fever, including: Genetics: Certain genes may make some individuals more susceptible to developing acute rheumatic fever after a streptococcal infection. Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as poor sanitation and crowded living conditions may increase the risk of streptococcal infections, which can lead to acute rheumatic fever. Age and gender: Acute rheumatic fever is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15, and it occurs more frequently in girls than in boys. Delayed or inadequate treatment of streptococcal infections: The risk of developing acute rheumatic fever increases if streptococcal infections are left untreated or are inadequately treated with antibiotics. Immunocompromised individuals: People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of acquiring rheumatic fever. Previous history of rheumatic fever: Individuals who have had rheumatic fever have an estimated 50% recurrence rate.

• #23 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment | Doctor

  https://patient.info/doctor/rheumatic-fever-pro

  Rheumatic fever (RF) used to be a fairly common disease among children in developed countries until about the middle of the 20th century. […] It is caused by Lancefield group A beta-haemolytic streptococci (GpA BHS) of which those with the M antigen are most likely to cause the disease (M types 3, 5, 18, 19, 24). […] It is thought that host susceptibility, virulence of the organism and the environment combine to determine the clinical manifestation and the severity in a particular individual. […] The decline in RF is not just due to penicillin but also to improved social conditions and a reduction in virulence of the GpA BHS. […] Twin studies have shown a 44% monozygotic concordance but only a 12% dizygotic concordance, strongly supporting the idea of a genetic susceptibility to developing rheumatic fever after exposure to the bacterium, rather than a simple throat infection.

• #24 Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease – Streptococcus pyogenes – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425394/

  There are a number of lines of evidence that suggest molecular mimicry plays a role in the development of carditis by stimulating both humoral and cellular cross-reactive immune responses. […] Acute rheumatic fever is a highly heritable disease, with frequent cases observed in family members, including twins. […] It is most likely that susceptibility to ARF is polygenic. Polymorphisms in several genes coding for immune proteins have been associated with ARF susceptibility. […] The most significant sequelae to S. pyogenes infection are ARF and RHD, and there are many strategies available to prevent these diseases. […] The challenge is to ensure that they are available in all settings, including resource-constrained environments, and that novel strategies are explored to help eliminate or eradicate ARF and RHD.

• #25 Acute Rheumatic Fever: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology

  https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/236582-overview

  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a sequela of streptococcal infection typically following 2 to 3 weeks after group A streptococcal pharyngitis that occurs most commonly in children and has rheumatologic, cardiac, and neurologic manifestations. […] In temperate climates, ARF typically follows pharyngitis from certain strains of group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). The overall rate of ARF after streptococcal pharyngitis is 0.3-3%. However, genetically predisposed individuals, comprising perhaps 3%-6% of the population, account for those who develop rheumatic fever. […] The group A streptococcal strains associated with ARF are heavily encapsulated and rich in M protein (signifying virulence). Of the 230 serotypes of group A Streptococcus, the classic rheumatogenic strains include emm types 1, 3, 5, 6, 14, 18, 19, 24, 27, and 29. More recent data suggest that many other group A emm types may also be involved.

• #26 Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease – Streptococcus pyogenes – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425394/

  There are a number of lines of evidence that suggest molecular mimicry plays a role in the development of carditis by stimulating both humoral and cellular cross-reactive immune responses. […] Acute rheumatic fever is a highly heritable disease, with frequent cases observed in family members, including twins. […] It is most likely that susceptibility to ARF is polygenic. Polymorphisms in several genes coding for immune proteins have been associated with ARF susceptibility. […] The most significant sequelae to S. pyogenes infection are ARF and RHD, and there are many strategies available to prevent these diseases. […] The challenge is to ensure that they are available in all settings, including resource-constrained environments, and that novel strategies are explored to help eliminate or eradicate ARF and RHD.

• #27 Rheumatic fever – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rheumatic_fever

  Rheumatic fever may occur following an infection of the throat by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes. […] The underlying mechanism is believed to involve the production of antibodies against a person’s own tissues. […] Due to their genetics, some people are more likely to get the disease when exposed to the bacteria than others. […] Other risk factors include malnutrition and poverty. […] The risk of severe complications is the primary concern with strep throat, and the reason why it is so important to be properly diagnosed and treated. One of the most serious complications is rheumatic fever, a disease that affects up to 3 percent of those with untreated strep infection. Rheumatic fever can lead to rheumatic heart disease. […] Chronic rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is characterized by repeated inflammation with fibrinous repair.

• #28 Rheumatic Fever – Children’s Health Issues – Merck Manual Consumer Version

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/bacterial-infections-in-infants-and-children/rheumatic-fever

  Rheumatic fever is inflammation of the joints, heart, skin, and nervous system, resulting from a complication of untreated streptococcal infection of the throat. […] Rheumatic fever is a reaction to an untreated streptococcal throat infection. […] Although rheumatic fever occurs after a streptococcal throat infection (strep throat), it is not an infection. Rather, it is an inflammatory reaction to the streptococcal infection. […] Overcrowded living conditions, undernutrition, and lower social and economic status seem to increase the risk of rheumatic fever. Heredity seems to play a part because the tendency to develop rheumatic fever appears to run in families. […] In the United States, a child who has a streptococcal throat infection but is not treated has a very low chance of developing rheumatic fever. […] Rheumatic fever occurs after streptococcal infections of the throat but not after streptococcal infections of the skin (impetigo) or other areas of the body. The reasons why are not known.

• #29 Acute Rheumatic Fever – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK594238/

  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an abnormal immunologic response to group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections, most commonly tonsillopharyngitis. […] ARF is an inflammatory response to a preceding GAS pharyngeal infection. GAS infections can manifest as a broad range of clinical conditions, from superficial infections such as impetigo and pharyngitis to more invasive processes, including toxic shock syndrome and necrotizing fasciitis. […] In most cases, appropriate antibiotic treatment of acute GAS infection prevents the development of ARF. However, individuals with GAS infection who cannot seek medical care or who have subclinical GAS infection and do not present to care are at risk for developing ARF. Environmental and socioeconomic factors, such as household overcrowding, also significantly contribute to the spread of GAS infections and the development of ARF.

• #30 Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) | Better Health Channel

  https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/rheumatic-heart-disease

  ARF can be prevented by reducing the spread of group A Streptococcus, through improving living conditions for those at risk. This may include reducing household overcrowding and providing health hardware (e.g., clean water) for washing hands and bodies. […] Prompt diagnosis and treatment of group A streptococcal throat and skin infections, especially among those at higher risk. […] RHD can be prevented by the same strategies, and by giving regular antibiotics (secondary prophylaxis) to people who have had ARF to prevent further group A streptococcal infections.

• #31 Rheumatic Fever

  https://www.rwjbh.org/treatment-care/heart-and-vascular-care/diseases-conditions/rheumatic-fever/

  Rheumatic fever is most common in 5 to 15 year old children. […] The exact cause of rheumatic fever is not yet known, but it occurs shortly after an infection with untreated group A streptococcus (the bacteria that causes „strep throat” and scarlet fever). […] Genetics are also said to play a role.

• #32 Rheumatic Fever and Post-Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis

  https://www.printo.it/pediatric-rheumatology/AU/info/10/Rheumatic-Fever-and-Post-Streptococcal-Reactive-Arthritis

  Rheumatic fever is a disease of school children and young people up to 25 years of age. […] Rheumatic fever is an important health problem in certain areas of the world, but it can be prevented by treating streptococcal pharyngitis as soon as it is recognized (i.e. primary prevention). […] Symptoms of rheumatic fever are treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications eg aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. […] After the diagnosis is confirmed, long-term protection with antibiotics is recommended to avoid recurrence of acute rheumatic fever. […] The risk of relapse is higher during the 3-5 years after onset and the risk of developing carditis damage increases with new flares. […] Most physicians agree that antibiotic prevention should continue for at least 5 years after the last attack or until the child is 21 years old.

• #33 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Diagnostic Criteria

  https://www.medicinenet.com/rheumatic_fever/article.htm

  Rheumatic fever (acute rheumatic fever or ARF) is an autoimmune disease that may occur after a group A streptococcal (GAS) throat infection. Such a reaction to strep throat causes inflammatory lesions in the connective tissue, heart, joints, and blood vessels of various organs and subcutaneous tissue. […] There is a direct and well-described connection between certain streptococcal infections and rheumatic fever. Most commonly, rheumatic fever is preceded by a throat infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus bacteria (strep throat, GABHS, or GAS). The bacterium causes an autoimmune (antibodies that attack the host’s own cells) inflammatory response in some people, which leads to the myriad signs and symptoms of rheumatic fever. […] It is still not fully understood why some people develop an abnormal immune response to group A streptococcus bacteria, while others do not. However, it is believed that certain factors may increase the risk of developing acute rheumatic fever, including: Genetics: Certain genes may make some individuals more susceptible to developing acute rheumatic fever after a streptococcal infection. Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as poor sanitation and crowded living conditions may increase the risk of streptococcal infections, which can lead to acute rheumatic fever. Age and gender: Acute rheumatic fever is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15, and it occurs more frequently in girls than in boys. Delayed or inadequate treatment of streptococcal infections: The risk of developing acute rheumatic fever increases if streptococcal infections are left untreated or are inadequately treated with antibiotics. Immunocompromised individuals: People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of acquiring rheumatic fever. Previous history of rheumatic fever: Individuals who have had rheumatic fever have an estimated 50% recurrence rate.

• #34 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Diagnostic Criteria

  https://www.medicinenet.com/rheumatic_fever/article.htm

  Rheumatic fever (acute rheumatic fever or ARF) is an autoimmune disease that may occur after a group A streptococcal (GAS) throat infection. Such a reaction to strep throat causes inflammatory lesions in the connective tissue, heart, joints, and blood vessels of various organs and subcutaneous tissue. […] There is a direct and well-described connection between certain streptococcal infections and rheumatic fever. Most commonly, rheumatic fever is preceded by a throat infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus bacteria (strep throat, GABHS, or GAS). The bacterium causes an autoimmune (antibodies that attack the host’s own cells) inflammatory response in some people, which leads to the myriad signs and symptoms of rheumatic fever. […] It is still not fully understood why some people develop an abnormal immune response to group A streptococcus bacteria, while others do not. However, it is believed that certain factors may increase the risk of developing acute rheumatic fever, including: Genetics: Certain genes may make some individuals more susceptible to developing acute rheumatic fever after a streptococcal infection. Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as poor sanitation and crowded living conditions may increase the risk of streptococcal infections, which can lead to acute rheumatic fever. Age and gender: Acute rheumatic fever is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15, and it occurs more frequently in girls than in boys. Delayed or inadequate treatment of streptococcal infections: The risk of developing acute rheumatic fever increases if streptococcal infections are left untreated or are inadequately treated with antibiotics. Immunocompromised individuals: People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of acquiring rheumatic fever. Previous history of rheumatic fever: Individuals who have had rheumatic fever have an estimated 50% recurrence rate.

• #35 About Rheumatic Fever | Group A Strep | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/group-a-strep/about/rheumatic-fever.html

  Rheumatic fever can develop if strep throat, scarlet fever, or impetigo aren’t treated properly. […] Rheumatic fever can develop after infections caused by group A Streptococcus (group A strep bacteria), specifically: Strep throat, Scarlet fever, Impetigo. […] If rheumatic fever is not treated promptly, rheumatic heart disease may occur. Rheumatic heart disease weakens the valves between the chambers of the heart. […] Someone who had rheumatic fever is more likely to get it again if they get another group A strep infection. […] People can’t catch rheumatic fever from someone else because it’s an immune response, not an infection.

• #36 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Diagnostic Criteria

  https://www.medicinenet.com/rheumatic_fever/article.htm

  Rheumatic fever (acute rheumatic fever or ARF) is an autoimmune disease that may occur after a group A streptococcal (GAS) throat infection. Such a reaction to strep throat causes inflammatory lesions in the connective tissue, heart, joints, and blood vessels of various organs and subcutaneous tissue. […] There is a direct and well-described connection between certain streptococcal infections and rheumatic fever. Most commonly, rheumatic fever is preceded by a throat infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus bacteria (strep throat, GABHS, or GAS). The bacterium causes an autoimmune (antibodies that attack the host’s own cells) inflammatory response in some people, which leads to the myriad signs and symptoms of rheumatic fever. […] It is still not fully understood why some people develop an abnormal immune response to group A streptococcus bacteria, while others do not. However, it is believed that certain factors may increase the risk of developing acute rheumatic fever, including: Genetics: Certain genes may make some individuals more susceptible to developing acute rheumatic fever after a streptococcal infection. Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as poor sanitation and crowded living conditions may increase the risk of streptococcal infections, which can lead to acute rheumatic fever. Age and gender: Acute rheumatic fever is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15, and it occurs more frequently in girls than in boys. Delayed or inadequate treatment of streptococcal infections: The risk of developing acute rheumatic fever increases if streptococcal infections are left untreated or are inadequately treated with antibiotics. Immunocompromised individuals: People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of acquiring rheumatic fever. Previous history of rheumatic fever: Individuals who have had rheumatic fever have an estimated 50% recurrence rate.

• #37 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment | Doctor

  https://patient.info/doctor/rheumatic-fever-pro

  The features of the disease are thought to be the result of a hypersensitivity reaction caused in the main by cross-reacting antibodies. […] The incidence of RF is 8-51 per 100,000 people worldwide, with incidence of ARF having fallen in high-income countries to less than 1 per 100,000 population. […] Overcrowding, poor hygiene and lack of access to medical services are all important. […] In hot countries, skin infection is a more important source of streptococci than pharyngitis. […] Those at the extremes of age (young or old) are particularly at risk, as are those who are immunocompromised, have comorbidities such as diabetes, or have concurrent chickenpox or influenza, and who are dependent on drugs or alcohol. […] At least 233,000 deaths are attributable to rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease each year.

• #38 Rheumatic fever: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003940.htm

  Rheumatic fever is a disease that may develop after an infection with group A streptococcus bacteria (such as strep throat or scarlet fever). It occurs after infections with a germ or bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes or group A streptococcus. This germ appears to trick the immune system into attacking healthy tissues in the body. These tissues become swollen or inflamed. […] Rheumatic fever is still common in countries that have a lot of poverty and poor health systems. It does not often occur in the United States and other developed countries. When rheumatic fever does occur in the United States, it is most often in small outbreaks. The latest outbreak in the United States was in the 1980s.

• #39 Rheumatic Fever: Symptoms and Possible Complications

  https://www.verywellhealth.com/rheumatic-fever-symptoms-causes-treatment-770652

  Rheumatic fever typically occurs when a streptococcal infection, such as strep throat or scarlet fever, goes untreated, causing bacteria to proliferate and trigger significant inflammation. […] Rheumatic fever itself is not contagious, as it is a complication of an infection rather than an illness itself. The streptococcal infections that cause rheumatic fever, however, are quite transmissible. […] Rheumatic fever is more common in parts of the developing world. In the United States, its most common in people who live in poverty and have limited access to proper medical care, but it is still considered rare overall.

• #40 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment | Doctor

  https://patient.info/doctor/rheumatic-fever-pro

  The features of the disease are thought to be the result of a hypersensitivity reaction caused in the main by cross-reacting antibodies. […] The incidence of RF is 8-51 per 100,000 people worldwide, with incidence of ARF having fallen in high-income countries to less than 1 per 100,000 population. […] Overcrowding, poor hygiene and lack of access to medical services are all important. […] In hot countries, skin infection is a more important source of streptococci than pharyngitis. […] Those at the extremes of age (young or old) are particularly at risk, as are those who are immunocompromised, have comorbidities such as diabetes, or have concurrent chickenpox or influenza, and who are dependent on drugs or alcohol. […] At least 233,000 deaths are attributable to rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease each year.

• #41 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment | Doctor

  https://patient.info/doctor/rheumatic-fever-pro

  The features of the disease are thought to be the result of a hypersensitivity reaction caused in the main by cross-reacting antibodies. […] The incidence of RF is 8-51 per 100,000 people worldwide, with incidence of ARF having fallen in high-income countries to less than 1 per 100,000 population. […] Overcrowding, poor hygiene and lack of access to medical services are all important. […] In hot countries, skin infection is a more important source of streptococci than pharyngitis. […] Those at the extremes of age (young or old) are particularly at risk, as are those who are immunocompromised, have comorbidities such as diabetes, or have concurrent chickenpox or influenza, and who are dependent on drugs or alcohol. […] At least 233,000 deaths are attributable to rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease each year.

• #42 Rheumatic heart disease | Heart and Stroke Foundation

  https://www.heartandstroke.ca/heart-disease/conditions/rheumatic-heart-disease

  Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can be triggered by a streptococcal bacterial infection. […] Rheumatic heart disease describes a group of short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) heart disorders that are caused by rheumatic fever. […] About 60% of people with rheumatic fever go on to develop rheumatic heart disease. […] People who have had repeated strep infections are also at a higher risk of developing rheumatic heart disease.

• #43 Rheumatic fever – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rheumatic_fever

  Rheumatic fever may occur following an infection of the throat by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes. […] The underlying mechanism is believed to involve the production of antibodies against a person’s own tissues. […] Due to their genetics, some people are more likely to get the disease when exposed to the bacteria than others. […] Other risk factors include malnutrition and poverty. […] The risk of severe complications is the primary concern with strep throat, and the reason why it is so important to be properly diagnosed and treated. One of the most serious complications is rheumatic fever, a disease that affects up to 3 percent of those with untreated strep infection. Rheumatic fever can lead to rheumatic heart disease. […] Chronic rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is characterized by repeated inflammation with fibrinous repair.

• #44

  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/rheumatic-heart-disease

  Rheumatic heart disease results from damage to heart valves caused by one or several episodes of rheumatic fever, an autoimmune inflammatory reaction to throat infection caused by group A streptococci (streptococcal pharyngitis or strep throat). […] In some people, this streptococcal infection causes the immune system to react against the tissues of the body including inflaming and scarring the heart valves. This is referred to as rheumatic fever. Rheumatic heart disease results from the inflammation and scarring of heart valves caused by rheumatic fever. […] Since rheumatic heart disease results from rheumatic fever, an important strategy is to prevent rheumatic fever from occurring. Treatment of strep throat with appropriate antibiotics will prevent rheumatic fever. […] Currently a large proportion of those suffering rheumatic heart disease are not diagnosed or are diagnosed at a late stage when damage to the heart is very severe.

• #45 Acute rheumatic fever: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis – UpToDate

  https://www.uptodate.com/contents/acute-rheumatic-fever-clinical-manifestations-and-diagnosis

  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a nonsuppurative sequela that occurs two to four weeks following group A Streptococcus (GAS) pharyngitis and may consist of arthritis, carditis, chorea, erythema marginatum, and subcutaneous nodules. […] Damage to cardiac valves may be chronic and progressive, resulting in cardiac decompensation.

• #46 Rheumatic fever long-term effects explained

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/rheumatic-fever-long-term-effects

  Rheumatic fever occurs due to immune system changes in response to strep throat and other infections caused by Group A Strep. […] Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the most common complication of rheumatic fever. RHD is a very severe form of heart disease, especially in young children. […] Rheumatic fever can cause permanent damage if left untreated. During an episode of rheumatic fever, the immune system can cause inflammation in the heart, joints, brain, and skin. If this inflammation is left untreated for an extended period, it could result in permanent damage. This is especially important to prevent RHD. […] The long-term effects of rheumatic fever mainly affect the heart and joints. When a person develops a heart condition after rheumatic fever, this is known as RHD, a serious cardiovascular disease. RHD can increase a person’s risk of stroke, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure. […] Rheumatic fever can also cause other long-term conditions, including Jaccoud arthropathy, which tends to affect the joints in the hands and feet.

• #47 Rheumatic Heart Disease – Seattle Children’s

  https://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/rheumatic-heart-disease/

  Rheumatic fever happens after an infection from bacteria called group A streptococcus if the infection is not completely treated with medicine (antibiotics). […] Rheumatic fever may cause serious, permanent damage to the heart valves. Most often, it damages the mitral valve, aortic valve or both. […] Rheumatic fever is the leading cause of valve disease that occurs after birth (acquired valve disease) in the world, but rheumatic fever is not very common in the United States. […] Doctors can prevent rheumatic fever by treating strep throat or scarlet fever with medicine (antibiotics).

• #48 Rheumatic fever long-term effects explained

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/rheumatic-fever-long-term-effects

  Rheumatic fever occurs due to immune system changes in response to strep throat and other infections caused by Group A Strep. […] Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the most common complication of rheumatic fever. RHD is a very severe form of heart disease, especially in young children. […] Rheumatic fever can cause permanent damage if left untreated. During an episode of rheumatic fever, the immune system can cause inflammation in the heart, joints, brain, and skin. If this inflammation is left untreated for an extended period, it could result in permanent damage. This is especially important to prevent RHD. […] The long-term effects of rheumatic fever mainly affect the heart and joints. When a person develops a heart condition after rheumatic fever, this is known as RHD, a serious cardiovascular disease. RHD can increase a person’s risk of stroke, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure. […] Rheumatic fever can also cause other long-term conditions, including Jaccoud arthropathy, which tends to affect the joints in the hands and feet.

• #49 Related conditions – Rheumatic Fever – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Diagnosis – MedBroadcast.com

  https://medbroadcast.com/channel/infection/related-conditions/rheumatic-fever

  Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can happen after a person becomes infected with the Streptococcus bacteria. […] Rheumatic fever is caused by a combination of bacterial infection and immune system overreaction. […] In some people, the body reacts with a massive immune system reaction to the affected areas. […] Rheumatic fever can also cause problems with the nervous system that are usually reversible. […] The best way to prevent rheumatic fever is to have strep throat treated promptly with penicillin or other antibiotics. […] Although bacteria are responsible for triggering rheumatic fever, antibiotics can do little to help once you have rheumatic fever, and treatment then aims at relieving symptoms.

• #50 Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

  https://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatic-fever

  Rheumatic fever is caused by a bacterium called group A Streptococcus. […] Rheumatic fever causes the body to attack its own tissues. This reaction causes widespread inflammation throughout the body, which is the basis for all symptoms of rheumatic fever. […] Rheumatic fever is caused by a reaction to the bacterium that causes strep throat. […] Factors that increase your child’s chances of developing rheumatic fever include: […] Certain strains are more likely than others to lead to rheumatic fever. […] The most effective way to make sure your child doesn’t develop rheumatic fever is to start treating their strep throat infection within several days and to treat it thoroughly.

• #51

  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/rheumatic-heart-disease

  Rheumatic heart disease results from damage to heart valves caused by one or several episodes of rheumatic fever, an autoimmune inflammatory reaction to throat infection caused by group A streptococci (streptococcal pharyngitis or strep throat). […] In some people, this streptococcal infection causes the immune system to react against the tissues of the body including inflaming and scarring the heart valves. This is referred to as rheumatic fever. Rheumatic heart disease results from the inflammation and scarring of heart valves caused by rheumatic fever. […] Since rheumatic heart disease results from rheumatic fever, an important strategy is to prevent rheumatic fever from occurring. Treatment of strep throat with appropriate antibiotics will prevent rheumatic fever. […] Currently a large proportion of those suffering rheumatic heart disease are not diagnosed or are diagnosed at a late stage when damage to the heart is very severe.

• #52 Rheumatic Fever Diagnosis, Symptoms, Treatment & Causes

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/rheumatic_fever/article_em.htm

  Rheumatic fever is a complication of a streptococcal pharyngitis infection (strep throat) that can cause damage to the heart, joints, brain, and skin. […] Rheumatic fever is preventable by treating strep throat with antibiotics, usually penicillin. If a patient is allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics such as erythromycin or clindamycin can be used. […] While it is not completely clear, rheumatic fever seems to be caused by a process called „molecular mimicry.” […] During infection with certain types (or strains) of group A streptococcal bacteria, the proteins on the bacteria appear similar to proteins in the human body. […] Because of this similarity, the immune system begins to attack human cells with similar proteins, such as heart muscle, joints, skin, and sometimes brain tissue.

• #53 Rheumatic Heart Disease | Services | Willis-Knighton Cardiology | TOP Cardiologists | The Most Advanced Cariovascular Specialists in Shreveport – Bossier City Louisiana and the Ark-La-Tex

  https://www.wkcardiology.com/services/conditions/Rheumatic-Heart-Disease

  Thus, the best way to prevent rheumatic heart disease is to prevent rheumatic fever by treating strep throat infections or by taking preventative antibiotics for patients susceptible to a recurring attack. […] The first step in treating patients with rheumatic heart disease is to eradicate any remaining streptococcal bacteria with antibiotics. […] Patients who have previously had a rheumatic fever attack may need to take long term antibiotics because they can help prevent future attacks and minimize heart damage.

• #54 Rheumatic Fever and Post-Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis

  https://www.printo.it/pediatric-rheumatology/AU/info/10/Rheumatic-Fever-and-Post-Streptococcal-Reactive-Arthritis

  Rheumatic fever is a disease of school children and young people up to 25 years of age. […] Rheumatic fever is an important health problem in certain areas of the world, but it can be prevented by treating streptococcal pharyngitis as soon as it is recognized (i.e. primary prevention). […] Symptoms of rheumatic fever are treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications eg aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. […] After the diagnosis is confirmed, long-term protection with antibiotics is recommended to avoid recurrence of acute rheumatic fever. […] The risk of relapse is higher during the 3-5 years after onset and the risk of developing carditis damage increases with new flares. […] Most physicians agree that antibiotic prevention should continue for at least 5 years after the last attack or until the child is 21 years old.

• #55 Rheumatic Fever and Post-Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis

  https://www.printo.it/pediatric-rheumatology/AU/info/10/Rheumatic-Fever-and-Post-Streptococcal-Reactive-Arthritis

  If heart damage is present, 10 years of prophylaxis are recommended, or until the age of 40 – or later in life if the disease is complicated by valve replacement and damage. […] There is a disease called „post-streptococcal reactive arthritis” that also occurs after streptococcal pharyngitis, but which features arthritis of longer duration and which has a lower risk of carditis. […] The diagnosis of PSRA relies on arthritis with evidence of recent streptococcal infection, abnormal streptococcal antibody tests (ASOT, DNAase B) and the absence of the signs and symptoms in a diagnosis of ARF according to „Jones criteria”.

• #56 Rheumatic Fever and Post-Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis

  https://www.printo.it/pediatric-rheumatology/AU/info/10/Rheumatic-Fever-and-Post-Streptococcal-Reactive-Arthritis

  Rheumatic fever is a disease of school children and young people up to 25 years of age. […] Rheumatic fever is an important health problem in certain areas of the world, but it can be prevented by treating streptococcal pharyngitis as soon as it is recognized (i.e. primary prevention). […] Symptoms of rheumatic fever are treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications eg aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. […] After the diagnosis is confirmed, long-term protection with antibiotics is recommended to avoid recurrence of acute rheumatic fever. […] The risk of relapse is higher during the 3-5 years after onset and the risk of developing carditis damage increases with new flares. […] Most physicians agree that antibiotic prevention should continue for at least 5 years after the last attack or until the child is 21 years old.

• #57 Rheumatic Fever | Riley Children’s Health

  https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/rheumatic-fever

  Rheumatic fever is a specific type of reactive arthritis that reacts to group A Streptococcus bacteria that causes strep throat. This inflammatory condition is the body’s response to having had a strep infection. […] Despite popular belief to the contrary, rheumatic fever still occurs in patients today. […] The most serious symptom of rheumatic fever is inflammation in and around the heart, which can lead to damage of the heart valves if left untreated. […] Your child’s rheumatologist will prescribe antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medicines to treat rheumatic fever. […] Your child’s doctor will likely prescribe the following to treat rheumatic fever: Anti-inflammatory medicines. These medicines will help reduce swelling and inflammation related to rheumatic fever. […] Antibiotics. It is important that your child take his or her prescribed antibiotic medicines to remove any remaining strep bacteria in his or her body.

• #58 Content – Health Encyclopedia – University of Rochester Medical Center

  https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=85&ContentID=P00239

  Rheumatic heart disease is caused by rheumatic fever. […] Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can affect many connective tissues, especially in the heart. […] Untreated or undertreated strep infections put a person at increased risk. Children who get repeated strep throat infections are at the most risk for rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease. […] A recent history of strep infection or rheumatic fever is key to the diagnosis of rheumatic heart disease. […] Treatment depends on how much damage has been done to the heart valves. It may even include surgery to replace or fix a badly damaged valve.

• #59 Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) | Better Health Channel

  https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/rheumatic-heart-disease

  ARF can be prevented by reducing the spread of group A Streptococcus, through improving living conditions for those at risk. This may include reducing household overcrowding and providing health hardware (e.g., clean water) for washing hands and bodies. […] Prompt diagnosis and treatment of group A streptococcal throat and skin infections, especially among those at higher risk. […] RHD can be prevented by the same strategies, and by giving regular antibiotics (secondary prophylaxis) to people who have had ARF to prevent further group A streptococcal infections.

• #60 Rheumatic fever

  https://info.health.nz/conditions-treatments/infectious-diseases/rheumatic-fever

  Heart valve damage can remain after other symptoms of rheumatic fever have gone. […] Complications include heart failure, which means the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. […] Mori or Pacific tamariki and rangatahi aged between 4 and 19 are most at risk of developing rheumatic fever, especially those who have a whnau or family history of rheumatic fever, rheumatic heart disease or both. […] To prevent more episodes of rheumatic fever that can lead to rheumatic heart disease, it is important to stop further strep throat infections. This requires penicillin injections every 28 days for at least 10 years. […] Keeping your home warm and dry will reduce the risk of germs like strep throat from spreading.

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