Prevention Of Rheumatic Fever

Overview

Rheumatic fever is caused by an immune-mediated delayed response to infection with a particular strain of group A streptococci. It presents with fever, anorexia, lethargy and joint pain. Sometimes they will have a history of a sore throat before all the presentations begin. Besides that, patients may experience rashes, subcutaneous nodules, pancarditis, and Sydenham Chorea. The diagnosis usually will be made according to the modified Jones Criteria. Investigations that can be done for these conditions are throat cultures, full blood count with ESR and CRP levels, serology for antistreptolysin O antibodies (ASO titer). Echocardiography also should be done which may demonstrate mitral regurgitation. The aim of treatment for Rheumatic fever is to limit the cardiac damages and symptomatic relief. Aspirin and specific antibiotics, benzathine benzylpenicillin & long term prophylaxis is prescribed to the patient.