Rheumatic fever recurrences in New Zealand 2010–14

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Dennison A, et al.

May 26, 2020

Summary:

A retrospective chart review of repeat admissions to New Zealand hospitals for acute rheumatic fever from 2010 to 2014 found an overall recurrence rate of 7.2%. A total of 65 episodes of recurrent acute rheumatic fever occurred in 60 patients. All patients were of Māori (51%) or Pacific (49%) ethnicity. Median age at recurrence was 21.6 years, with 83% of recurrences occurring after age 15. The risk of recurrence was 4% for children aged <16 years and increased to 16% for patients aged 16–20 years and 25% for adults aged >20 years. A high proportion of recurrences (73%) occurred in Auckland DHBs. The most common major manifestations of recurrence were arthritis and carditis and recurrence was strongly associated with progression of rheumatic heart disease.

Comment:

Reference: N Z Med J. 2020;133(1516):47-57.

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.