Rheumatic Fever

Symptoms of rheumatic fever include:

• Arthritis (true inflammation of the joint linings causing swelling and pain)
• Carditis (inflammation of the heart muscles, valves or the lining tissue around the heart)
• Chorea (involuntary, dance-like movements of the hands)
• Rash
• Nodules (bumps) on the skin

Diagnosis of Rheumatic Fever

To diagnose rheumatic fever, your child’s rheumatologist will verify that your child has previously had strep throat. The doctor can do this by reviewing your child’s medical records for a positive strep test or by running a blood test to look for antibodies related to strep throat.

Your child’s doctor may also run one or more of the following tests to diagnosis rheumatic fever:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG). Your child’s doctor can run an EKG to check for heart disease that can be associated with rheumatic fever. An EKG is a noninvasive test that measures the electrical impulses that are made when the heart beats. An abnormal heartbeat pattern may indicate rheumatic heart disease.
• Complete blood count (CBC). Your child’s doctor may order a CBC to make sure there is no other condition that could be mimicking the symptoms of rheumatic fever.
• Neurologic exam. If your child is showing signs of chorea (involuntary hand movements) as a symptom of rheumatic fever, a neurologist may evaluate that related neurologic condition.

Of the above symptoms, it is most important for the carditis to be treated as soon as possible to avoid damage to the heart and heart valves. Pediatric rheumatologists are experienced in diagnosing rheumatic fever so treatment can begin quickly.