What does ARF mean in MEDICAL PHYSICS
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a non-suppurative inflammatory condition that primarily affects the joints, heart, and central nervous system. It is a delayed autoimmune response to a Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus or GAS) infection, typically a pharyngitis (strep throat).
ARF meaning in Medical Physics in Medical
ARF mostly used in an acronym Medical Physics in Category Medical that means Acute rheumatic fever
Shorthand: ARF,
Full Form: Acute rheumatic fever
For more information of "Acute rheumatic fever", see the section below.
Symptoms
ARF typically manifests with the following symptoms:
- Acute onset of migratory polyarthritis: Painful, swollen, and warm joints that shift from one joint to another
- Carditis: Inflammation of the heart, which can lead to heart murmurs, chest pain, and shortness of breath
- Chorea minor: A neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, purposeless movements
- Erythema marginatum: A non-itchy, ring-shaped rash that appears on the trunk and limbs
- Subcutaneous nodules: Firm, painless lumps under the skin
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of ARF is based on the Jones criteria, which include:
- Major criteria: Carditis, migratory polyarthritis, chorea minor, erythema marginatum, subcutaneous nodules
- Minor criteria: Fever, arthralgia (joint pain without swelling), elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, prolonged PR interval on electrocardiogram (ECG)
Treatment
Treatment for ARF focuses on:
- Eradicating the streptococcal infection: With antibiotics (usually penicillin)
- Reducing inflammation: With aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Preventing recurrence: With long-term antibiotic prophylaxis (usually penicillin) for at least 5 years
Essential Questions and Answers on Acute rheumatic fever in "MEDICAL»MEDPHY"
What is Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF)?
ARF is a childhood disease that is a delayed complication of untreated streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat). It is a multisystem inflammatory disease that can affect the heart, joints, skin, and brain.
What causes ARF?
ARF is caused by an autoimmune reaction to the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, which causes strep throat. After a strep infection, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, causing inflammation and damage.
What are the symptoms of ARF?
Symptoms of ARF can include fever, joint pain (polyarthritis), skin rashes, chorea (involuntary movements of the body), and carditis (inflammation of the heart).
How is ARF diagnosed?
ARF is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, and specific laboratory tests, including blood tests and echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart).
How is ARF treated?
Treatment for ARF includes antibiotics to eliminate the strep infection, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation, and rest. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair heart damage.
What are the long-term effects of ARF?
ARF can lead to long-term complications, including rheumatic heart disease, which can cause permanent damage to the heart valves. Other complications may include chorea, ongoing joint pain, and skin rashes.
How can ARF be prevented?
ARF can be prevented by promptly treating strep throat with antibiotics. It is also important to maintain good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing, to reduce the risk of strep infection.
Final Words: ARF is a serious condition that can have long-term consequences, including rheumatic heart disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to minimize the risk of complications. Regular follow-up and adherence to antibiotic prophylaxis can prevent recurrences and ensure a positive outcome.
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