Rheumatic fever
Alternative names:
adult rhumatic fever; juvenile rheumatic fever
Definition:
A systemic immune disease that may develop after an infection with streptococcus bacteria (such as strep throat and scarlet fever). The disease involves the brain, heart, joints, and skin.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Rheumatic fever is caused by recent (usually within 1 to 5 weeks) infection with streptococcus bacteria, such as may occur with strep throat and scarlet fever. It is uncommon in the U.S. except in people who have had untreated strep infections. It may occur in adults or children but is most common in children 5 to 15 years old. Rheumatic fever is associated with the development of valve disease and other heart disorders.
Acute rheumatic fever has 5 major diagnostic criteria: There are also a grouping of minor criteria. Two major criteria, or one major and two minor criteria, are suggestive of rheumatic fever.
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