All of the following can occur in rheumatic fever except: September 2007, 2010
**Question:** All of the following can occur in rheumatic fever except: September 2007, 2010
A. Arthritis
B. Sydenham's chorea
C. Valvular heart disease
D. Neurological complications (encephalopathy)
**Core Concept:**
Rheumatic fever is a post-infectious inflammatory disorder that develops following group A streptococcal pharyngitis infection. It is characterized by a series of complications, including arthritis, chorea, heart valve disease, and neurological complications. The condition is primarily seen in children and young adults in developing countries due to inadequate access to antibiotics and poor sanitation.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
September 2007 and 2010 are specific dates, which do not directly relate to rheumatic fever as a disease entity or its complications. Instead, the focus should be on understanding the various manifestations of rheumatic fever and their appropriate timing in relation to the disease process.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Arthritis: This is a common manifestation of rheumatic fever, occurring in approximately 80% of patients. It is a symmetrical, migratory joint inflammation affecting large joints, especially the large joints of the hands and feet.
B. Sydenham's chorea: Sydenham's chorea is a type of involuntary movement disorder, a common manifestation of rheumatic fever. It is typically seen after the onset of rheumatic fever and can last for weeks or months.
C. Valvular heart disease: Valvular heart disease is a common complication of rheumatic fever, affecting the heart valves and leading to regurgitation or stenosis. It typically develops several weeks to months after the onset of rheumatic fever and is a late manifestation of the disease.
D. Neurological complications (encephalopathy): Encephalopathy is a general term for brain dysfunction, but in the context of rheumatic fever, it refers to encephalitis, a viral infection of the brain. Encephalitis is not a complication of rheumatic fever but rather a complication of other viral infections.
**Clinical Pearl:**
Understanding the timing and progression of rheumatic fever's manifestations is crucial for proper diagnosis and management. Ensure that you are familiar with the clinical features of rheumatic fever and the timing of its onset to avoid confusion with other conditions like viral encephalitis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
1. September 2007 and 2010: These dates do not specifically address any manifestation of rheumatic fever but are rather arbitrary dates.
2. Sydenham's chorea: Although Sydenham's chorea is a common manifestation of rheumatic fever, it is not mentioned in the options provided, making it irrelevant in this context.
3. Valvular heart disease: Valvular heart disease is a late manifestation of rheumatic fever, occurring several weeks to months after the onset of the disease. It is not a manifestation that occurs in the immediate stages of rheumatic fever.
4. Encephalitis: Encephal