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Acute rheumatic fever
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a complication of a strep throat
caused by particular strains of group A beta-haemolytic streptococci.
Clinical picture
Although common in developing countries, ARF is rare in the United
States, with small isolated outbreaks reported only occasionally. It is
most common among children between 5-15 years of age. A family history
of ARF may predispose an individual to the disease.
Symptoms typically occur 18 days after an untreated strep throat. An
acute attack lasts approximately 3 months. The most common clinical
finding is a migratory arthritis involving multiple joints.
The most serious complication is carditis, or heart inflammation
(rheumatic heart disease), as this may lead to chronic heart disease and
disability or death years after an attack. Less common findings include
bumps or nodules under the skin (usually over the spine or other bony
areas) and a red expanding rash on the trunk and extremities that recurs
over weeks to months. Because of the different ways ARF presents itself,
the disease may be difficult to diagnose. A neurological disorder,
chorea, can occur months after an initial attack, causing jerky
involuntary movements, muscle weakness, slurred speech, and personality
changes.
Treatment
Initial episodes of ARF as well as recurrences can be prevented by
treatment with appropriate antibiotics.
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