Treatment of Acute Rheumatic Fever with Sydenham Chorea

Sydenham chorea is a recognised neuropsychiatric manifestation of acute rheumatic fever (ARF). When chorea is present, the management approach differs from other ARF presentations, and the severity of the choreiform movements guides clinical decisions.

Clinical Scenario

Sydenham chorea is a neuropsychiatric manifestation of ARF characterised variably by chorea, decreased muscle tone, and in some cases psychiatric and behavioural symptoms such as obsessive-compulsive symptoms and hyperactivity.

Treatment Approach (partial)

For mild chorea in the context of ARF, the initial approach centres on non-pharmacological, supportive measures rather than immediate drug therapy.

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References

Sydenham chorea is a neuropsychiatric manifestation of ARF characterised variably by chorea, decreased muscle tone, and in some cases, psychiatric and behavioural symptoms such as obsessive-compulsive symptoms and hyperactivity.

Calm environment, avoidance of over-stimulation, rest, education about the condition.

Mild or moderate chorea does not require pharmacotherapy but benefits from rest and a calm environment.

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