Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease: Narrative Literature Review

Abstract

Rheumatic fever is a systemic inflammatory disease caused by an immune and inflammatory response to infection by group A beta-hemolytic streptococci in individuals with a genetic predisposition. In its acute form, rheumatic fever is a febrile illness that occurs about 2 to 3 weeks after infection and is characterized by inflammation of the joints, skin, nervous system, and heart. If left untreated, rheumatic fever can lead to scarring and structural deformities of the heart resulting in rheumatic heart disease (RHD). This literature review aimed to describe acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in children. Therapy for acute rheumatic fever is aimed at eradicating streptococcal infection regimen 10 days of antibiotics NSAIDs are used as agent anti-inflammatory for rheumatic carditis and arthritis and help relieve symptoms, but does not prevent complications. Serious carditis may require diuretics and vasodilators, and recovery may take up to 12 months. Damaged valve repair surgery may be necessary in cases of recurrent chronic rheumatic fever or carditis. In conclusion, rheumatic fever is a systemic inflammatory disease caused by an immune and inflammatory response to infection by group A beta-hemolytic streptococci in individuals with a genetic predisposition. If left untreated, rheumatic fever can lead to scarring and structural deformities of the heart resulting in rheumatic heart disease (RHD).