An analysis of rheumatic heart disease

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the characteristics of Rheumatic Heart Disease (CR). Bibliographic review: CR is a serious and long-term consequence of acute rheumatic fever (ARF), a remarkably common illness that follows an untreated superficial infection with the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus or Strep A). CR has therefore been viewed as a disease of poverty associated with overcrowding, poor sanitation and other social determinants of poor health that enable the spread of Strep A and the development of CR, causing half a million deaths annually. Final considerations: Rheumatic heart disease is a serious consequence of ARF, representing the main cause of heart disease among children in low- and middle-income countries. ARF causes pancarditis and, more commonly, valve problems. The diagnosis of CR is made through echocardiography and rheumatic heart disease should be suspected in all patients with ARF. In patients with acute rheumatic fever, prophylaxis with a 4-week injection of benzathine penicillin G (PGB) is recommended to prevent progression of CR. The management of CR is done through early diagnosis and treatment of heart failure.