Acute Rheumatic Carditis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Acute rheumatic carditis is an inflammatory condition of the heart that arises as a complication of rheumatic fever, a post-infectious immune response to Streptococcus pyogenes. This condition primarily affects children and young adults, leading to potentially severe and chronic cardiac damage. Understanding its pathophysiology, risk factors, symptoms, and management is crucial for preventing long-term complications.