Keywords: Acute rheumatic fever; Group A streptococcal; Rheumatic heart disease; Review; Echocardiogram; Polymorphisms; Benzathine penicillin; Vaccine; Child
Abstract:
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) continues to be a major cause of death in developing countries. Recent publications summarised in this review highlight several potential markers suggestive of a diagnosis of ARF including many genetic polymorphisms. Handheld echocardiography proves to be a cost-efficient, portable tool that could aid earlier diagnosis of rheumatic heart disease especially in lower socio-economic populations where rates are higher. Simpler analgesic approaches to administering secondary prophylaxis such as local anaesthetic can improve adherence. Vaccines offer the ultimate solution to prevention and reduction of ARF rates; however, research is still at early stages.