The Etiology and Prevention of Rheumatic Fever

Abstract

Increasing understanding of the group A streptococcal etiology of rheumatic fever has resulted in great advances in controlling the disease. Of the many antibiotics effective against group A streptococci, the sulfonamides, orally administered penicillin, and repository benzathine penicillin have been used most extensively to control rheumatic recurrences. Studies at the Warren Air Force Base have indicated that initial attacks of rheumatic fever may be prevented by prompt and adequate penicillin therapy of the antecedent infection.