Which risk increases as prior Streptococcus pyogenes infection causes rheumatic fever?

💡 Explanation

Heart valve damage is more likely because, in rheumatic fever, molecular mimicry occurs where antibodies against Streptococcus also target heart valve tissue. The body's immune system attacks healthy tissues rather than just the bacteria; therefore, the risk of heart valve damage increases, rather than erythrocyte, kidney or platelet malfunctions.

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