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Rheumatic Heart Disease Prophylaxis — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyCommunity & Indigenous HealthRheumatic Heart Disease ProphylaxisRACP Paediatrics

What is the recommended interval for benzathine benzylpenicillin secondary prophylaxis injections for rheumatic heart disease in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients?

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Correct answer: CEvery 28 days

RHDAustralia guidelines recommend IM benzathine benzylpenicillin G every 28 days for secondary prophylaxis of ARF/RHD. In some high-risk populations, some experts advocate for every 21 days, but 28 days is the standard recommendation. Adherence to secondary prophylaxis is the single most important intervention to prevent recurrent ARF and progressive valvular damage.

Reference: RHDAustralia – 2024 – Australian Guideline for Prevention, Diagnosis and Management of Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease