Acute rheumatic fever: Carditis is the most common presenting manifestation in South Africa
Date
1997
Authors
Muller E.
Huizinga S.J.
Kalis N.N.
Van Der Merwe P.-L.
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Volume Title
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Abstract
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is still a major health problem in South Africa. In this retrospective, descriptive study, 100 patients with ARF were analysed to establish whether the clinical profile has changed. Carditis was found in 94% of patients and was therefore the most common of the major criteria found at presentation. The two most common early complications were congestive cardiac failure (CCF) in 16% and infective endocarditis (IE) in 5% of patients. Late complications were CCF in 35% with IE contributing to CCF in 10% of patients. A further 15% developed IE. In conclusion, the profile of ARF as described in the literature has changed, with carditis now being the most common manifestation.
Description
Keywords
article, bacterial endocarditis, carditis, child, clinical feature, congestive heart failure, female, human, major clinical study, male, rheumatic fever, socioeconomics, south africa, streptococcus infection
Citation
Cardiovascular Journal of South Africa
SUPPL. 4
SUPPL. 4