Search

Longitudinal surveillance of group A streptococcal pharyngitis and impetigo in remote Western Australian school children informs acute rheumatic fever prevention

The prevalence of impetigo and pharyngitis - which are both superficial group A streptococcus (GAS) infections that precede acute rheumatic fever - is poorly defined. Guidelines recommend the early diagnosis of both infections to prevent ARF; however, screening to enable the concurrent detection of these infections in high-risk populations has rarely been performed. 

Missed Opportunities for Diagnosing Acute Rheumatic Fever

We have read with interest the new publication by Rouhiainen and colleagues on missed opportunities for preventing or diagnosing acute rheumatic fever (ARF).

Severe adverse reactions to benzathine penicillin G in rheumatic heart disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Fear of severe adverse reaction (SAR) and reluctance of health care providers to administer intramuscular injections are major contributing factors to poor adherence of benzathine penicillin G (BPG) in the management of rheumatic heart disease (RHD). However, data on the risk of SARs following BPG injections for RHD are relatively limited and inconclusive. Our systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the incidence of SARs associated with BPG injections used for secondary prophylaxis of RHD. 

Population pharmacokinetics of penicillin G: insights into increased clearance at low concentrations to guide development of improved long-acting formulations for syphilis

Although benzylpenicillin (penicillin G) is listed by the World Health Organization as an Essential Medicine, dose optimization is a persistent challenge, especially for long-acting intramuscular formulations. Maintaining sustained antibiotic exposure at target concentrations is crucial for secondary chemoprophylaxis of rheumatic heart disease and treatment of syphilis. 

Development of Group A streptococcal vaccines: an unmet global health need

This review provides an update on the current status of Group A Streptococcus vaccine development, & describes global efforts to accelerate the development...

Rheumatic heart disease in Indigenous children in northern Australia: Differences in prevalence and the challenges of screening

This study compared regional differences in the prevalence of rheumatic heart disease in Indigenous Australian children, and describes the logistical and...

Supply of benzathine penicillin G: the 20-year experience in Australia

Reliable supplies of BPG are essential for delivering the recommended schedule of secondary prophylaxis for people living with RHD.

Are minor echocardiographic changes associated with an increased risk of acute rheumatic fever or progression to rheumatic heart disease?

We aimed to determine the significance of minor heart valve abnormalities, including Borderline RHD, in predicting the future risk of acute rheumatic fever.

Disparity in Mortality From Rheumatic Heart Disease in Indigenous Australians

This study was undertaken to provide a comprehensive examination of rheumatic heart disease mortality rates and trends in Indigenous Australians.

Treating trade: the case for clinical engagement with regional trade agreements

The global burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continues to grow. Although developing settings face fastest growth in incidence, no country is exempt.