Coexistence of Infective Endocarditis and Recurrent Acute Rheumatic Fever: A Case Report

<p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Background:</strong> Infective endocarditis (IE) and recurrent acute rheumatic fever (ARF) are two serious cardiovascular conditions frequently associated with rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Their coexistence complicates diagnosis and management due to overlapping clinical features such as fever, migratory arthritis, and valvular dysfunction. This case report aims to elucidate the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and treatment strategies in a pediatric patient with coexisting IE and recurrent ARF.  </p> <p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Methods:</strong> A detailed clinical case study was conducted involving a 10-year-old boy with a history of RHD presenting with joint pain and intermittent fever. Diagnostic evaluations included physical examination, laboratory investigations (including blood cultures and antistreptolysin O titers), and serial transthoracic echocardiography. Therapeutic interventions combined targeted intravenous antibiotics, corticosteroids, and secondary prophylaxis with benzathine penicillin G. Multidisciplinary consultations were employed to optimize management.</p