Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
08:52
Microdissection and Immunofluorescence Staining of Myocardial Sleeves in Murine Pulmonary Veins
Published on: November 21, 2023
ON THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SUBMILIARY MYOCARDIAL NODULES OF ASCHOFF IN RHEUMATIC FEVER
1Pathological Laboratory of the Mount Sinai Hospital, New York.
The Journal of Experimental Medicine
|October 30, 2009
Summary
Aschoff bodies in the myocardium indicate rheumatic infection, even without joint symptoms. Their absence in other endocarditis cases helps differentiate rheumatic carditis.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Rheumatology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Rheumatic myocarditis is characterized by Aschoff nodules.
- These nodules are typically found in the left ventricle walls.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the diagnostic significance of Aschoff bodies in rheumatic infections.
- To differentiate rheumatic carditis from other endocardial infections.
Main Methods:
- Microscopic examination of myocardial tissue for Aschoff bodies.
- Correlation of findings with clinical presentations (chorea, endocarditis) and bacteriological results.
Main Results:
- Aschoff bodies were present in rheumatic myocarditis and chorea cases.
- Aschoff bodies were absent in bacterial endocarditis caused by various microorganisms.
- Healed Aschoff bodies (sclerotic patches) may be found in chronic rheumatic carditis.
Conclusions:
- The presence of Aschoff bodies strongly suggests a prior rheumatic infection.
- Cases with Aschoff bodies should be classified as "rheumatism," while those with positive bacteriology and no Aschoff bodies should be classified by the causative microorganism.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Rheumatic heart disease or RHD is a chronic condition that results from rheumatic fever, causing permanent damage to the heart valves.Etiology and Risk FactorsIt primarily arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis. Streptococcus spreads through direct contact with oral or respiratory secretions. While the bacteria are the causative agents, factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, poor...
01:22Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
The key clinical manifestations of Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) include several distinct cardiac symptoms.Carditis, a hallmark of acute rheumatic fever, involves inflammation of the heart's endocardium, myocardium, and pericardium. Chronic RHD often results from recurrent episodes of carditis. Its symptoms include the following:Murmurs are caused by valvular damage, especially to the mitral and aortic valves. Mitral stenosis or regurgitation is common, with characteristic heart murmurs...
01:21Myocarditis I: Introduction
Myocarditis is inflammation of the myocardium, which is the muscular layer of the heart.EtiologyMyocarditis has a diverse etiology, including a wide range of infectious and non-infectious causes:Infectious CausesViral: Common viruses include Coxsackie A and B, adenovirus, parvovirus B19, enteroviruses, and influenza A.Bacterial: Examples include infections caused by Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Mycoplasma species.Rickettsial: Infections like Rocky Mountain spotted fever can result in...
01:27Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle. The symptoms vary widely, encompassing asymptomatic presentations to severe, acute manifestations.Clinical PresentationAsymptomatic cases: In some instances, myocarditis may be asymptomatic, with the infection resolving without intervention. These cases often go undetected unless discovered incidentally through diagnostic imaging or tests conducted for other reasons.General Early Symptoms: Early symptoms of myocarditis are non-specific and can...
01:22Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
01:22Pericarditis I: Introduction
Pericarditis is defined as the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. This condition can cause significant chest pain and other symptoms, often necessitating medical intervention. The pericardium has two layers: the inner visceral layer and the outer parietal layer, separated by a small amount of fluid that reduces friction during heartbeats.Types of PericarditisPericarditis can be classified into several types based on the duration and nature of the...