ARF is an immune-mediated sequela of untreated strep pharyngitis and a must-know topic for USMLE Step 1.
🔬 Key Concepts:
• J♥NES criteria – Major clinical features you can’t forget
• Type II hypersensitivity (molecular mimicry)
• Mitral valve involvement: regurgitation early, stenosis later
• Penicillin for treatment and prophylaxis
🧠 Memorize the criteria, recognize the cardiac complications, and understand the immune mechanism behind it all.