Rheumatic valvulitis and constrictive pericarditis. Report of case

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pathology

Background:

• Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) can lead to severe cardiac complications.
• Constrictive pericarditis is a serious condition affecting heart function.

Observation:

• A 13-year-old female presented with advanced congestive heart failure, edema, ascites, and jaundice.
• Physical examination revealed mitral insufficiency, cardiomegaly, and elevated venous pressure.
• Despite medical management, the patient experienced multi-organ failure and disseminated intravascular coagulation, resulting in death.

Findings:

• Post-mortem examination identified rheumatic mitral valvulitis and constrictive pericarditis.
• Tuberculosis was suspected as the cause of pericarditis, though a rheumatic etiology was also considered.
• Pre-existing rheumatic heart disease and cardiomegaly likely exacerbated constrictive pericarditis and right heart failure.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for severe, life-threatening outcomes in pediatric rheumatic heart disease.
• It emphasizes the importance of considering both infectious and rheumatic etiologies in constrictive pericarditis.
• Prompt diagnosis and management of rheumatic heart disease and its complications are crucial for improving patient prognosis.