In this opinion article, the authors suggest an alternative hypothesis for the pathogenesis of rheumatic heart disease. They believe that an interaction between streptococcal M protein and the infected individual's collagen results in the production of anticollagen autoantibodies. They also believe that molecular mimicry, which has previously been implicated in rheumatic heart disease, probably has no role in the pathogenesis of this condition.
- Rajendra Tandon
- Meenakshi Sharma
- Jagat Narula
