Definition for Syndenham's chorea

Sydenham's chorea (also known as "Saint Vitus Dance") is a disease characterized by rapid, uncoordinated jerking movements affecting primarily the face, feet and hands. more

Sydenham's chorea (also known as "Saint Vitus Dance") is a disease characterized by rapid, uncoordinated jerking movements affecting primarily the face, feet and hands. SC results from childhood infection with Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococci and is reported to occur in 20-30% of patients with rheumatic fever (RF). The disease is usually latent, occurring up to 6 months after the acute infection, but occasionally be the presenting symptom of RF. SC is more common in females than males and most patients are children, below 18 years of age. Adult onset of SC is comparatively rare and most of the adult cases are associated with exacerbation of chorea following childhood SC. less