Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of inadequately treated strep throat or scarlet fever, caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. It primarily affects the heart, joints, skin, and brain.
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Rheumatic fever is triggered by a bacterial infection with Streptococcus pyogenes.
The disease often follows an untreated or poorly treated strep throat infection.
It can cause serious complications such as rheumatic heart disease, characterized by damage to the heart valves.
Symptoms include fever, painful and swollen joints, skin rash, and involuntary muscle movements.
Preventative measures include prompt treatment of strep throat with antibiotics.