What is the treatment for rheumatic fever?

The treatment for rheumatic fever primarily involves the administration of antibiotics to eliminate streptococcal bacteria, which are the underlying cause of the condition. Intramuscular benzyl penicillin is considered a standard treatment because it provides a long-acting form of penicillin that effectively eradicates the infection, thus preventing further complications associated with rheumatic fever, such as rheumatic heart disease.

The choice of intramuscular benzyl penicillin is especially important in cases of acute rheumatic fever, as it helps in both treating the active infection and preventing recurrence by maintaining adequate antibiotic levels over time. This preventative aspect is critical, as recurrent infections can lead to more severe health problems.

On the other hand, while oral amoxicillin is effective against streptococcal infections, it may not be as effective as intramuscular benzyl penicillin for this specific condition due to absorption issues and the need for consistent blood levels. Topical corticosteroids are used for local inflammatory conditions and would not address the systemic infection involved in rheumatic fever. Similarly, intravenous fluids are generally supportive measures that do not directly treat the underlying cause of rheumatic fever.