Rheumatic Fever - Synopsis

A serious acute disease resulting from untreated strep.  About five weeks after the sore throat, patients develop fever, painful swelling of the large joints such as the hip, knee, and elbow.  It can also cause chronic heart disease, shortness of breath, and a rash.  A rare complication is chorea, which is an abnormal movement of the face, hands, and feet.  Treatment includes aspirin, steroids, and antibiotics.