9. Rheumatic Fever Flashcards
1
Q
What causes rheumatic fever?
A
A throat infection with Group A strep that triggers rheumatic fever 2-4 weeks later
2
Q
What areas of the body does rheumatic fever effect?
A
Heart (carditis, valvular disease)
Joints (arthralgia/arthritis)
Subcutaneous nodules (joint and spine)
Rash (erythema marginatum, trunk, thighs and arms)
3
Q
What are the evidence of rheumatic fever?
A
Positive throat culture Strep antigen test positive Elevated or rising strep antibody Recent Scarlett fever Raised ESR/CRP fever
4
Q
How is RF treated?
A
Bed rest Benzylpenicillin then methyl penicillin (erythromycin is penicillin allergic) Analgesus Immobilise joints If chorea then haloperidol
5
Q
How does rheumatic fever affect the heart valves?
A
Mitral (70%), aortic (40%)
Tricuspid (10%) pulmonary (2%)
