ICD-11

A disease of the cardiovascular system, caused as a result of rheumatic fever. Rheumatic heart disease is characterised by repeated inflammation with fibrinous repair. This disease may present with cardinal anatomic changes of the valve including leaflet thickening, commissural fusion, and shortening and thickening of the tendinous cords. Inflammation and valve scarring may also occur. Confirmation is by a thoracic radiography or echocardiography.

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the most significant sequela of Rheumatic Fever (RF). Rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are nonsuppurative complications of Group A streptococcal pharyngitis due to a delayed immune response.