What is Rheumatic Fever

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of inadequately treated strep throat or scarlet fever. While it primarily affects the heart, joints, brain, and skin, the most serious long-term consequence of rheumatic fever is permanent damage to the heart valves, known as rheumatic heart disease.

What causes Rheumatic Fever to develop?

Rheumatic fever is not a direct infection, but rather an autoimmune response. When the body fights off a Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A strep) infection, the immune system may mistakenly attack the body's own healthy tissues, particularly those in the heart. This occurs due to a process called molecular mimicry, where the proteins of the bacteria resemble proteins found in human heart tissue.

Which body systems are affected by Rheumatic Fever?

The inflammation caused by rheumatic fever can impact several systems throughout the body. Common clinical features include:

• Heart (Carditis): Inflammation of the heart muscle, valves, or lining, which can lead to murmurs or heart failure.


• Joints (Polyarthritis): Painful, swollen, and red joints, typically moving from one joint to another.


• Brain (Chorea): Involuntary, jerky, and uncontrollable movements.


• Skin: Small, painless nodules under the skin or a specific ring-like rash (erythema marginatum).

Who is most at risk for Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic fever typically affects children between the ages of 5 and 15, though it can occur in adults. While it is rare in developed countries due to effective antibiotic treatments for strep infections, it remains a significant global health issue in resource-limited settings. There is no specific gender preference, but socioeconomic factors, such as crowded living conditions and limited access to healthcare, significantly increase the risk of developing the condition.

How does this differ from other heart conditions?

Unlike congenital heart defects present at birth, rheumatic fever is an acquired condition. It is uniquely distinguished by its preceding history of streptococcal infection. Currently, 11 members of the DiseaseMaps community are managing the long-term effects of rheumatic fever and sharing their experiences with others navigating this diagnosis.

Next steps

• Consult a cardiologist or a rheumatologist to monitor heart health if you suspect a history of the condition.


• Ensure that any sore throat in school-aged children is tested for Strep A to prevent the development of rheumatic fever.


• Connect with the DiseaseMaps community to share experiences and find support from others living with the condition.

Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

References

• NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Rheumatic Fever


• World Health Organization (WHO): Rheumatic Heart Disease Fact Sheets


• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease


• American Heart Association (AHA): Prevention of Rheumatic Fever