DEVELOPMENT AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS OF RHEUMATISM IN ADOLESCENTS

Rheumatism in adolescents, primarily manifested as Acute rheumatic fever, is an immune-mediated inflammatory disorder that develops following untreated infection with Group A β-hemolytic streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). Despite global advances in antimicrobial therapy, ARF remains prevalent in low- and middle-income countries and continues to be a leading cause of acquired cardiovascular morbidity among young populations. This article reviews contemporary data on epidemiology, immunopathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, therapeutic strategies, and preventive measures, with particular attention to adolescent populations.