Publication Details
Abstract
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a multisystem inflammatory disease resulting from an autoimmune response to group A β-hemolytic streptococcal infections, predominantly affecting children and adolescents aged 7–14 years. Despite being preventable and treatable, ARF remains a significant health challenge worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries, due to socioeconomic disparities, inadequate healthcare access, and limited public awareness.
This study utilized a descriptive-analytical approach, systematically reviewing international guidelines, textbooks, and recent peer-reviewed literature on ARF to analyze its prevalence, etiology, clinical features, diagnostic methods, treatment protocols, and prevention strategies. Epidemiological data were gathered from global and regional sources, with special attention to diagnostic tools like the Jones criteria and to effective treatment and prophylactic measures.
The findings confirm that carditis is the most common and severe manifestation of ARF, significantly influencing long-term outcomes, while Sydenham’s chorea, affecting 20% of patients, presents neuropsychiatric challenges requiring specific attention. Proper antibiotic management of streptococcal pharyngitis reduces the initial incidence of ARF, while long-term secondary prophylaxis significantly decreases recurrence rates. The study also identifies persistent challenges, such as limited healthcare resources and gaps in community education, particularly in high-burden regions.
Addressing ARF effectively requires a multifaceted strategy involving clinical care, public health policies, educational outreach, and healthcare system strengthening. Increasing healthcare worker training and improving public awareness are crucial to enhance early diagnosis and adherence to prophylactic regimens. The need for further research on the neuropsychiatric outcomes of ARF and scalable prevention methods suitable for resource-limited settings is also emphasized.
Strengthening prevention, ensuring equitable healthcare access, and fostering international collaboration are key strategies to reduce the global burden of ARF. Implementing evidence-based interventions can significantly improve health outcomes for millions of children worldwide at risk of this preventable disease.