Health encyclopaedia

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Causes of Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is not an infection. It starts following a strep throat caused by a particular strain of the bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes, more commonly known as group-A haemolytic strep or strep A.

When streptococci get into the body, the immune system produces antibodies to attack them. Unfortunately, the antibodies also detect the similar identifying chemical groups on the body’s own tissues and attack them as well, causing inflammation and damage. In this way, damage can be caused to the inner lining of the heart, the heart muscles, the joint lining surfaces, brain nerve tissue and other parts of the body.

• 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

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