CLINICAL PROFILE OF ACUTE RHEUMATIC FEVER IN CHILDREN IN PAKISTAN: A STUDY AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Introduction: Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a significant cause of cardiovascular morbidity in children, in particular those from low and middle-income countries like Pakistan. This study aims to examine the clinical profile and management outcome of children diagnosed with ARF. Objectives: This study aimed to describe the clinical features, laboratory findings, and treatment outcomes of children admitted to a tertiary care hospital with acute rheumatic fever in Pakistan. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out at Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan in the duration from November, 2023 to October, 2024. The study included children aged 5–15 years old diagnosed with ARF by the modified Jones criteria. Clinical, laboratory tests and echocardiographic findings were recorded and analyzed descriptively. Results: 120 children were included; migratory arthritis with carditis was most commonly present. In 70% of cases, the throat infection was caused by streptococcus. Appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis and anti-inflammatory treatment were given to most patients. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment of ARF are crucial to prevent progression to rheumatic heart disease. Follow-up, long and short, and education of the public is indispensable.