What condition is typically preceded by a Strep infection?

Rheumatic fever is a serious inflammatory condition that can develop after a strep throat infection, particularly when the infection is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. This condition arises as a complication of untreated strep throat or scarlet fever. During the course of a strep infection, certain antibodies produced by the immune system may mistakenly target the body’s own tissues, particularly those in the heart, joints, skin, and brain, leading to the signs and symptoms associated with rheumatic fever. This can include fever, sore throat, joint pain, and potentially serious complications like rheumatic heart disease, which affects heart valves and can lead to long-term health issues. Understanding this connection between strep throat and rheumatic fever is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, which can prevent severe consequences.

The other conditions listed—Rubeola (measles), rubella, and scabies—are not directly linked to strep infections and have different causes and transmission methods. Rubeola and rubella are viral infections with no relationship to streptococcal infections, while scabies is caused by a mite and is not related to bacterial infections at all.