Complications and systemic medical aspects of rheumatic fever
Cardiac complications including rheumatic heart disease, valvular dysfunction, and heart failure
Rheumatic fever can lead to severe cardiac complications, including rheumatic heart disease, valvular dysfunction, and heart failure. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key to preventing long-term damage.
Complications and Systemic Medical Aspects of Rheumatic Fever
Introduction
Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of untreated or inadequately treated streptococcal throat infections. It primarily affects the heart, joints, skin, and brain. Among its most serious complications is rheumatic heart disease (RHD), which can lead to permanent damage to heart valves and potentially heart failure.
Cardiac Complications
Rheumatic Heart Disease
RHD occurs when repeated inflammation causes scarring and deformities in the heart valves. The most commonly affected valve is the mitral valve, leading to mitral stenosis or mitral regurgitation.
Valvular Dysfunction
- Mitral Stenosis: Narrowing of the mitral valve, impeding blood flow.
- Mitral Regurgitation: Leakage of blood back into the left atrium.
- Aortic Valve Disease: Stenosis or regurgitation affecting the aortic valve.
Heart Failure
Chronic valvular dysfunction can lead to heart failure, where the heart becomes unable to pump blood effectively, causing symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, and fluid retention.
Systemic Complications
Arthritis
Rheumatic fever can cause migratory polyarthritis, primarily affecting large joints like the knees, ankles, and elbows.
Neurological Manifestations
Sydenham’s chorea is a neurological disorder linked to rheumatic fever, causing involuntary movements and emotional instability.
Skin Conditions
Characteristic skin manifestations include erythema marginatum and subcutaneous nodules.
Prevention and Treatment
Early diagnosis and treatment of streptococcal infections with antibiotics are crucial in preventing rheumatic fever. Long-term prophylactic antibiotics and valve repair or replacement surgery may be necessary for individuals with advanced RHD.
Conclusion
Rheumatic fever and its cardiac complications remain significant global health concerns. Timely intervention and improved healthcare access can mitigate severe outcomes and enhance the quality of life for affected individuals.
Tags
Recommended Reads
Explore related articles that might interest you
Etiology, pathophysiology, pathology, clinical features, diagnostic criteria, and complications of rheumatic fever
Complications and systemic medical aspects of rheumatic fever
Etiology, pathophysiology, pathology, clinical features, diagnostic criteria, and complications of rheumatic fever
Heart Failure
Development of a Management Plan for Heart Failure
Investigation of Anesthetic and Operative Deaths
