Rheumatic disorders associated with streptococcal infections.

The proteins in the cell wall of Streptococcus have many functions, with some proteins being regarded as a marker of their rheumatological potential. High levels of antibodies directed against some proteins are seen in patients with acute rheumatic fever. The theory of molecular mimicry forms the basis of the relationship between the bacteria and the disease acute rheumatic fever. A distinct entity which does not fulfil Jones' criteria, and which is known as post-streptococcal reactive arthritis following infection with beta-haemolytic streptococci, is being encountered more frequently. A pyogenic form of arthritis due to Streptococcus is one of the most common and serious joint infections and requires prompt recognition and treatment.