Health encyclopaedia

Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever, once the most common cause of joint problems (arthritis) in children, and the commonest cause of heart-valve disorders, is now fortunately rare in the developed world. The disease became steadily less common in developed countries as housing conditions improved and overcrowding was reduced. Rheumatic fever occurring today is also usually a much milder disease than it was 60 years ago.

Rheumatic fever does not seriously affect the joints, and, although arthritis does occur, it does not produce any permanent disability. Rheumatic fever often affects the heart and the resulting damage can be severe and permanent. The nervous system can also be affected.

• Symptoms
• Causes
• Diagnosis
• Prevention
• Complications
• Treatment

• RabiesRadiationRadiotherapyRaynaud's phenomenonRectal examinationRed blood countReiter's syndromeRelapsing feverRenin testRepetitive strain injuryRespiratory distress syndromeRespiratory tract infectionRespite careRestless leg syndromeRestricted growthRetinal detachmentReye's syndromeRhesus factor diseaseRheumatic feverRheumatoid arthritisRhinitisRicketsRingwormRisks and benefits of treatmentRoot canal treatmentRosaceaRoundwormRubella

  ---