True statement about Rheumatic fever in children
**Core Concept**
Rheumatic fever is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that occurs after a group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) infection, primarily affecting children. The disease is characterized by the formation of antibodies against host tissues, leading to inflammation and damage in various organs, including the heart, joints, skin, and brain.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The Jones criteria are used to diagnose rheumatic fever, which include major and minor criteria. Major criteria include carditis, arthritis, chorea, erythema marginatum, and subcutaneous nodules. Minor criteria include fever, arthralgia, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP). The presence of two major criteria or one major and two minor criteria, along with evidence of a preceding GABHS infection, is required for a diagnosis of rheumatic fever. The disease is thought to occur due to molecular mimicry between the GABHS bacteria and host tissues, leading to the production of autoantibodies.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the Jones criteria or the pathogenesis of rheumatic fever.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it does not mention the preceding GABHS infection, which is a crucial factor in the development of rheumatic fever.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the type of streptococcal infection (GABHS) that precedes rheumatic fever.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that rheumatic fever is a preventable disease by promptly treating GABHS pharyngitis with antibiotics, such as penicillin. Early treatment can prevent the development of rheumatic fever and its long-term complications.
**Correct Answer:** B.