Drug that can be used in the management of Sydenham’s chorea is:
**Core Concept**
Sydenham’s chorea is a neurologic disorder that occurs in the context of acute rheumatic fever, characterized by involuntary movements of the face and extremities. The pathophysiology of Sydenham’s chorea involves autoimmune mechanisms, with antibodies targeting the basal ganglia, particularly the caudate nucleus.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Haloperidol, a typical antipsychotic medication, is used to manage the symptoms of Sydenham’s chorea by blocking dopamine receptors in the basal ganglia. This blockade helps to reduce the choreiform movements and other symptoms associated with the disorder. Haloperidol’s efficacy in treating Sydenham’s chorea is thought to be related to its ability to modulate the activity of the dopaminergic system in the basal ganglia.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not mention a specific medication used in the management of Sydenham’s chorea. A variety of medications have been used to treat the disorder, but haloperidol is a common choice.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not a medication used in the management of Sydenham’s chorea. While medications like penicillin are used to treat the underlying infection that can lead to Sydenham’s chorea, they are not used to manage the choreiform movements themselves.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it does not mention a specific medication used in the management of Sydenham’s chorea. A variety of medications have been used to treat the disorder, but haloperidol is a common choice.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Haloperidol can be used to manage the symptoms of Sydenham’s chorea, but it is essential to monitor patients for potential side effects, such as extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia.
**Correct Answer:** D. Haloperidol.