Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an inflammatory condition that can develop after an untreated strep throat or scarlet fever infection. Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a long-term complication of ARF that damages the heart valves.

Causes

• ARF is caused by an autoimmune response to a group A streptococcal infection.
• RHD occurs when repeated episodes of ARF cause permanent damage to the heart valves.

Symptoms

ARF Symptoms

• Fever
• Joint pain and swelling
• Skin rash
• Uncontrolled movements (Sydenham’s chorea)
• Fatigue

RHD Symptoms

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Swelling in the legs or abdomen

Diagnosis

To diagnose ARF or RHD, your doctor may:

• Take a medical history and perform a physical exam.
• Order blood tests to detect inflammation or recent strep infection.
• Conduct imaging tests like echocardiograms to assess heart valve damage.

Treatment

ARF Treatment

• Antibiotics to treat the strep infection.
• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce symptoms.
• Bed rest to prevent complications.

RHD Treatment

• Long-term antibiotics to prevent recurrent ARF.
• Medications to manage heart failure or other complications.
• Surgery to repair or replace damaged heart valves in severe cases.

Prevention

• Treat strep throat and scarlet fever promptly with antibiotics.
• Regular medical check-ups for people with a history of ARF.

When to See a Doctor

Consult a healthcare provider if you or your child experiences:

• Symptoms of strep throat, such as a sore throat and fever.
• Joint pain, skin rash, or other symptoms of ARF.
• Shortness of breath or chest pain, which may indicate RHD.

Where to Get Help

• Your GP (doctor)
• Cardiologist
• Infectious disease specialist

If you would like this information in an accessible format, please email: betterhealthchannel@dhhs.vic.gov.au