Rheumatic heart disease results primarily from which type of infection?

Rheumatic heart disease primarily results from a systemic bacterial infection, specifically following an infection with Group A Streptococcus. This bacterium can cause strep throat and, if inadequately treated, may lead to rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever is an autoimmune response that can subsequently damage the heart valves and myocardium, leading to rheumatic heart disease. The association between rheumatic fever and streptococcal throat infections makes systemic bacterial infection the most relevant cause of this condition.

Other types of infections, such as viral, fungal, or parasitic infections, do not typically lead to the development of rheumatic heart disease. Each has its own set of complications and mechanisms but does not share the profound link with the rheumatic process as seen with the systemic bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus.