Hi Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC.. I have gone through your query and can understand your concern... Rheumatic arthritis (RA) is an disease that can involve the joints, heart etc. The disease typically develops two to four weeks after a throat infection caused by streptococcus bacteria. It is believed to be caused by antibody cross-reactivity. In rheumatic arthritis the antibodies (which are body defense system)produced against streptococcus react against Heart and joints, producing the symptoms of rheumatic fever. Diagnosis of rheumatic arthritis can be made by elevated or rising antibodies level which are called antistreptolysin O titre (ASO titre). C-reactive protein (CRP) is protein found in blood plasma. Its levels rise in response to inflammation. Research suggests that patients with elevated basal levels of CRP are at an increased risk of diabetes,hypertension and cardiovascular disease. So both these factors are inspected after rheumatic fever for Heart disease prevention. Hoping your query is solved