Rheumatic Pneumonia in Children

Abstract

The pathogenesis of rheumatic pneumonia is not known. It seems likely, however, that the inflammatory process damages the capillary walls and permits exudation of fibrin into the alveoli. Rheumatic pneumonia reduces the chances of survival in cases of rheumatic fever. Patients who do survive have severe heart disease. Hormonal therapy may increase the chance of survival and possibly reduce the severity of residual heart disease.