Aschoff body

Aschoff body is a histopathological finding, typically associated with rheumatic fever. It is named after the German pathologist Karl Aschoff, who first described it in 1904.

Definition

An Aschoff body is a granuloma that forms in the connective tissue of the heart in response to rheumatic fever. It is characterized by central necrosis surrounded by macrophages, including distinctive multinucleated macrophages known as Aschoff cells.

Pathogenesis

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of inadequately treated streptococcal pharyngitis or scarlet fever. The body's immune response to the Streptococcus bacteria leads to inflammation and the formation of Aschoff bodies in the heart tissue.

Clinical significance

The presence of Aschoff bodies is a key diagnostic feature of rheumatic fever. They are most commonly found in the heart, particularly in the myocardium, but can also occur in other tissues. The formation of Aschoff bodies can lead to rheumatic heart disease, a serious complication of rheumatic fever that can result in permanent damage to the heart valves.

See also

• Rheumatic fever
• Rheumatic heart disease
• Granuloma
• Macrophage
• Streptococcal pharyngitis
• Scarlet fever

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