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Acute rheumatic fever
M C Amigo1, M Martínez-Lavín, P A Reyes
1Rheumatology Service, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Mexico City, Mexico.
Abstract:
The diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever has become difficult. A growing number of diseases that were not recognized in the past could fulfill its diagnostic criteria. We emphasize its changing incidence, current knowledge of its pathogenesis, and lesser known clinical features such as pneumonitis, encephalitis and glomerulonephritis.
Insights
Diagnosing acute rheumatic fever is challenging due to evolving criteria and newly recognized conditions. This review covers its changing incidence, pathogenesis, and less common clinical presentations.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) diagnosis is increasingly complex.
- Differential diagnoses for ARF are expanding, complicating clinical recognition.
- Traditional diagnostic criteria may not encompass the full spectrum of ARF presentations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges in acute rheumatic fever.
- To review the current understanding of ARF pathogenesis.
- To discuss less recognized clinical manifestations of ARF.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on ARF diagnosis, incidence, pathogenesis, and clinical features.
- Analysis of evolving diagnostic criteria and differential diagnoses.
- Emphasis on atypical presentations.
Main Results:
- The incidence of ARF is changing, requiring updated epidemiological understanding.
- Pathogenesis research provides insights into disease mechanisms.
- Lesser-known clinical features include pneumonitis, encephalitis, and glomerulonephritis, expanding the diagnostic scope.
Conclusions:
- Acute rheumatic fever diagnosis requires a broader perspective beyond traditional criteria.
- Understanding evolving incidence and pathogenesis is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Awareness of diverse clinical presentations, including extra-articular manifestations, is essential for timely management.