What is rheumatic fever?

Rheumatic fever is very common in daily life. It is a type of tissue inflammation that develops following a streptococcal infection. In areas with poor economic conditions and underdeveloped medical resources, the incidence of this inflammation is quite high. Currently, as overall living standards improve, the incidence rate has gradually decreased. But what exactly is rheumatic fever?

What Is Rheumatic Fever?

The primary cause of rheumatic fever is linked to bacterial infection, especially inflammation triggered by group A streptococcal infection in humans and repeated streptococcal infections. To some extent, it is also related to seasonal and environmental factors. Most cases occur more frequently in spring and winter, and cold, damp conditions are among the most important triggers. Additionally, there is a certain degree of heritability—namely, familial susceptibility—in some cases.

The most typical symptom of rheumatic fever is arthritis, followed by myocarditis. Arthritis is the most common initial manifestation, occurring in over 70% of patients. During acute episodes, joints become swollen, warm, painful, and difficult to move. Myocarditis is another major feature of rheumatic fever, particularly prevalent in children. Most pediatric cases mainly involve inflammation caused by rheumatic fever affecting the myocardium and endocardium.

Rheumatic fever is essentially a non-purulent disease. In the past, it primarily affected school-aged children and adolescents, and in severe cases, could even involve heart complications in young people and children. The main season for outbreaks is summer, and the disease has certain associations with season and environment, along with distinct clinical symptoms. We hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health and a happy life.