Rheumatic Heart Disease in Indian Paediatrics: A Review

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a condition in which the valves of the heart are damaged, it is mainly caused by Group A Streptococcus, it mainly affects the paediatrics and young adults. Inflammation occurs in the joints, heart and blood vessels due to group A streptococcus. The exact pathogenesis of rheumatic heart disease is unknown. It is manifested as fatigue, chest pain and shortness of breath; pulmonary hypertension, heart failure are some of the complications of the disease. Endocarditis, viral myocarditis and prolapse of the mitral valve are the differential diagnosis of rheumatic heart disease. It is diagnosed by revised Jones and World Heart Federation criteria. Benzylpenicillin is the first-line drug for rheumatic heart disease, followed by oral Penicillin V, Erythromycin can be recommended. Paediatrics who are allergic to Penicillin Azithromycin, Erythromycin can be recommended based on Indian paediatrics and World Health Organization guidelines. It is prevented by reducing the exposure to infection in high-risk regions; treat with appropriate antibiotics; prevent recurrence of infections and complications. The aim of this review is to highlight rheumatic heart disease in paediatric population.