What is a potential complication of untreated streptococcal throat infection?

Rheumatic fever is a significant potential complication of untreated streptococcal throat infections, specifically those caused by Group A Streptococcus (S. pyogenes). This condition occurs when the body's immune response to the infection mistakenly targets the heart, joints, skin, and nervous system. If streptococcal pharyngitis is left untreated, it can lead to an autoimmune inflammatory response that manifests as rheumatic fever, characterized by symptoms such as fever, joint pain, and potentially damaging heart issues, including rheumatic heart disease.

This connection underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of streptococcal infections with appropriate antibiotics. Although other conditions like scarlet fever, sinusitis, and kidney infections can occur as a result of untreated streptococcal throat infections, they are not as directly related to the severe long-term complications associated with rheumatic fever, particularly regarding the risk of heart damage. Therefore, recognizing and treating streptococcal throat infections timely is critical in preventing rheumatic fever and its serious consequences.