RHEUMATIC FEVER

RHEUMATIC FEVER

Rheumatic fever is an illness of children and young adults, with major symptoms of arthritis and carditis, a prolonged course and a tendency to recur. It is triggered by infection with specific strains of group-A streptococcus which possess antigens that cross react with human connective tissue Particularly heart valve glycoprotein. Its prevalence in western world, has Progressively declined to very low levels, but it remains a major problem in undeveloped countries. The underlying cause is hypersensitivity reaction to gp-A streptococci. Rheumatics fever follows an attack of streptococcal pharyngitis after 2-3 weeks. In India Rheumatic valvular disease accounts for a major proportion of cardiac morbidity occurring below 40 yrs of age.