Acute Rheumatic Fever Following Group A Streptococcus Infection: A Diagnostic Challenge in an Older Adult

Summary: Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an immune-mediated sequela of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infection, primarily affecting children and adolescents. Its presentation in older adults is rare and often atypical, making diagnosis challenging. This case highlights an elderly female patient with fever, polyarthritis, and rash, initially suspected of having autoimmune or viral arthritis but ultimately diagnosed with ARF.