Causes of rheumatic heart disease
Rheumatic fever is the leading cause of rheumatic heart disease. Recurrent streptococcal infections lead to permanent damage of the heart valves. So, we should know the cause of rheumatic fever that leads directly to rheumatic heart disease. There are many theories, the most recent and acceptable is antigenic similarity.
The antigens of streptococcus are similar to that of the heart tissues. So, the antibodies that your body produces against these bacteria may also attack the heart tissues. The other theory states that the toxins of streptococcus may injure the heart tissue and make it abnormal, so your body attacks it. In all cases, the fibrotic lesions narrow the heart valves, and your heart can’t supply your body with enough blood.
