Match each term related to acute rheumatic carditis with its correct pathological definition:
Terms:
1. Molecular mimicry
2. Pancarditis
3. Aschoff bodies
Definitions:
A. Widespread inflammatory involvement of all three layers of the heart (endocardium, myocardium, and pericardium)
B. Immunological cross-reactivity where antibodies against group A streptococcal antigens target host cardiac tissues
C. Characteristic granulomatous myocardial lesions featuring central fibrinoid necrosis and Anitschkow cells
Answer
1-B, 2-A, 3-C
Explanation
These terms describe the mechanism, extent, and characteristic pathology of rheumatic cardiac involvement. **Key takeaway:** Mechanism, anatomy, and lesion terminology should be distinguished. **Glossary:** Myocardium: heart muscle; pericardium: the sac surrounding the heart.