Rheumatic heart disease: principles, pathophysiology and treatment

Abstract

Rheumatic heart disease is the main cause of mitral stenosis in developing countries. Recurrent infections secondary to Streptococcus pyogenes pharyngitis usually develop this disease. Its pathophysiology can be explained by two theories. Molecular mimicry consists in a molecule which is part of this bacteria presents antigenic similarity to the affected tissue. A new theory was developed recently, known as neoantigen theory, this suggests that S. pyogenes acquires access to the subendothelial collagen, inducing a autoimmune response against this tissue. Long-term valvular inflammation results in anatomic and functional abnormality of the affected valve. Surgical treatment for rheumatic valve disease has changed during the years. Initially the stenotic mitral valve was dilated manually using the surgeon ́s finger, a technique known as “closed” commissurotomy. Other treatment options nowadays consist in valve repair, percutaneous and open heart mitral valve replacement. Most of the patients present a great outcome after the adequate treatment and procedure.