Human D G, Hill I D, Fraser C B
Arch Dis Child. 1984 May;59(5):410-3. doi: 10.1136/adc.59.5.410.
A trial was conducted using sequential analysis by pairs to compare the efficacy of corticosteroids and salicylates in the treatment of acute rheumatic carditis. The results show a significantly favourable effect of steroid treatment both in clinical response and in reduction of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In addition, patients receiving steroids usually had a shorter hospital stay. The use of steroids in acute rheumatic fever with carditis is recommended.