Acute Articular Rheumatism
What is Acute Articular Rheumatism?
Acute Articular Rheumatism aka Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a complication seen in patients with strep throat. Patients experience arthritis and fever. ARF is found most commonly in children ages 5-15 years old. Adults can also develop it.
ARF will pop up in small isolated outbreaks in the United States occasionally, but for the most part, it is pretty rare.
What are the symptoms of Acute Articular Rheumatism?
Symptoms typically occur 18 days after an untreated strep throat. An acute attack lasts approximately 3 months.
- Fever
- Heart murmur
- Arthritis-like symptoms
- Appetite loss
- Swollen, warm joints which may include: ankles, wrists, elbows and knees
What causes Acute Articular Rheumatism?
A family history of Acute Articular Rheumatism may be an important factor in a patient’s predisposition to the disease. An infection with the streptococcus bacteria is the cause of ARF, which may include these diseases:
- Strep throat
- Scarlet Fever
- Streptococcal infections
How is Acute Articular Rheumatism diagnosed?
Acute Articular Rheumatism is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:
- Family history
- Complete physical examination
- Thorough medical history evaluation
- Assessment of signs and symptoms
- Laboratory tests
- Imaging studies
- Biopsy studies, if necessary
Abrupt joint inflammation and fever together help make ARF more distinguishable from other disorders.
What are the treatments for Acute Articular Rheumatism?
Acute Articular Rheumatism is treated in a two front approach. First, is eliminating the bacteria through the use of penicillin and other antibiotics. Secondly, is the management of the patient’s symptoms which most frequently involve fever and joint pain.
