What is a major criteria for diagnosing rheumatic fever?

Carditis is a major criterion for diagnosing rheumatic fever, reflecting the condition’s impact on the heart. Rheumatic fever is a systemic inflammatory disease that can occur as a complication following a streptococcal throat infection, particularly if left untreated. The inflammation can lead to damage in the heart muscle and valves, which is classified under carditis.

The presence of carditis is significant because it indicates the severity of the disease and is a key factor in guiding the clinical management of the patient. In contrast to other options, carditis directly relates to the pathophysiology of rheumatic fever and thus is a central feature in its diagnosis, helping healthcare providers assess the need for more aggressive treatment to prevent long-term cardiac complications.