Diagnosis

Although there's no single test for rheumatic fever, diagnosis is based on medical history, a physical exam and certain test results.

Blood tests

If your child was already diagnosed with a strep infection using a throat swab test, your doctor might not order additional tests for the bacteria.

Sometimes, a blood test that can detect antibodies to the strep bacteria in the blood is done. The actual bacteria might no longer be detectable in your child's throat tissues or blood.

To test for rheumatic fever, your doctor is also likely to check for inflammation by measuring inflammatory markers in your child's blood, which include C-reactive protein and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

This test records electrical signals as they travel through your child's heart. The results can tell if the electrical activity of the heart is abnormal and can help your doctor determine if parts of the heart may be enlarged.

Echocardiogram

Sound waves are used to create live-action images of the heart, which can help your doctor to detect heart problems.