Rheumatic disease: neglected but still present and deadly

Abstract

Rheumatic fever is a frequent disease in Brazil, and leads to serious long-term consequences, such as chronic rheumatic heart disease. Cardiac surgery due to rheumatic sequelae is quite common, having tragic consequences for the young population. The complex physiopathology and variable onset symptoms make the diagnosis of rheumatic fever a trickyone. The article summarizes the current physiopathology, diagnostic and treatment for the manifestations of rheumatic fever, acute and chronic. Special emphasis on primary prophylaxisis advised, as it prevents the development of the disease.