Rheumatic fever is the result of an autoimmunological sequela to a virulent Streptococcus pyogenes infection in a patient who was immunologically sensitized from prior infections. During a streptococcal infection, activated antigen-presenting cells, such as macrophages, present the bacterial antigen to helper T cells. Helper T cells subsequently activate B cells and induce the production of antibodies against the cell wall of Streptococcus. However the antibodies also act against the myocardium and joints, producing the symptoms of rheumatic fever.
Rheumatic fever pathophysiology
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Rheumatic fever risk factors
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Trench fever pathophysiology
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