What is the most serious complication of rheumatic fever in children?
May 05, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
Rheumatic fever is one of the most common and life-threatening diseases affecting school-age children in pediatrics. Its primary pathological involvement is the heart, making it one of the leading causes of acquired heart disease. During the acute phase, myocarditis may occur; indeed, all children with rheumatic fever exhibit myocardial involvement to varying degrees. Valvulitis—particularly involving the mitral valve—is the most common manifestation, followed by involvement of the aortic valve. Pericarditis may also develop, especially in severe cases.
Rheumatic fever is the most common disease among school-aged children aged 5–15 years. What, then, is the greatest threat posed by rheumatic fever in children?
Primary Hazards of Rheumatic Fever in Children
Rheumatic fever is one of the most common and serious pediatric diseases threatening the life and health of school-aged children. Its pathological changes primarily affect the heart and constitute one of the leading causes of acquired heart disease. During the acute phase, myocarditis may develop; indeed, all children with rheumatic fever exhibit myocardial involvement to some degree. Valvulitis—particularly mitral valve involvement—is most common, followed by aortic valve involvement. Pericarditis may occur in severely ill children and often coexists with myocarditis and endocarditis. Chronic cardiac valvular disease may develop, especially following recurrent episodes of rheumatic fever in children and prolonged disease duration.
Rheumatic fever is the most prevalent disease among school-aged children aged 5–15 years. Its greatest hazard lies in causing rheumatic heart disease—the principal cause of childhood rheumatic heart disease. Additionally, it may manifest as joint swelling, skin rashes, and Sydenham’s chorea. Therefore, preventive and control measures against rheumatic fever must be diligently implemented in daily life. Notably, rheumatic fever is often preceded by upper respiratory tract infections such as pharyngitis or acute tonsillitis.
In daily life, effective prevention and management strategies for these conditions should be adopted, with special emphasis on enhancing immune resistance to significantly reduce the incidence of rheumatic fever. Wishing you good health and happiness!
