RHEUMATIC FEVER
Rheumatic fever is a chronic disease of childhood, affecting the connective tissue of the heart, joints, lungs, and brain. An autoimmune reaction to group A
beta-hemolytic streptococcal infections, rheumatic fever occurs through-out the world, particularly in the temperate zones. It has become less common in developed countries, but there have been recent indications of increased occurrences in some areas of the United States.
Rheumatic fever is precipitated by a streptococcal infection, such as strep throat, tonsillitis, scarlet fever, or pharyngitis, which may be undiagnosed or untreated. The resultant rheumatic fever manifestation may be the first indication of trouble. However, an elevation of anti streptococcal antibodies that indicates recent streptococcal infection can be demonstrated in about 95% of the rheumatic fever patients tested within the first two