Which condition can develop as a sequela of a streptococcal throat infection?

A streptococcal throat infection, commonly caused by Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes), can lead to several complications following the initial infection. Notably, both rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis are recognized as sequelae of streptococcal throat infections.

Rheumatic fever can develop after an untreated streptococcal throat infection, typically occurring two to three weeks post-infection. This autoimmune condition can affect the heart, joints, skin, and central nervous system, and it is thought to arise from a cross-reactive immune response to streptococcal antigens.

Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN) can also occur, usually within one to two weeks after the onset of a streptococcal throat infection or skin infection. PSGN is characterized by the inflammation of the renal glomeruli, and it results from an immune-mediated response to the streptococcal infection, leading to symptoms such as hematuria, edema, and hypertension.

While scarlet fever is a complication associated with streptococcal infection characterized by a distinct rash, it does not