Rheumatic fever

Condition resulting from an inadequately treated or untreated infection with Group A streptococcus bacteria. It is a delayed immune response in which the body produces antibodies directed against itself (autoimmune). This can cause serious damage to heart valves and lead to symptoms such as swelling and pain in several joints, heart inflammation (carditis), skin nodules, rapid, jerky movements (Sydenham's chorea), and skin rash.