Chorea is a symptom often associated with which condition in children?

Chorea is a movement disorder characterized by rapid, irregular, and unintentional movements. In children, it is most commonly associated with rheumatic fever, which can occur following a streptococcal infection. One of the notable complications of rheumatic fever is known as Sydenham's chorea. This condition usually manifests as abnormal movements, which can be distressing and may last for several months. The underlying mechanism is thought to be related to an autoimmune response to the preceding infection, where antibodies mistakenly target neuronal tissues in the basal ganglia, leading to the characteristic motor disturbances.

Other conditions listed, such as Kawasaki disease, atrial fibrillation, and malignant hypertension, do not typically present with chorea as a symptom. Kawasaki disease primarily affects the cardiovascular system and presents with fever and rash. Atrial fibrillation is more associated with rhythm disturbances and may not manifest with movement disorders. Malignant hypertension is a severe form of high blood pressure that can lead to organ damage but does not typically involve chorea. Thus, rheumatic fever is distinctly linked to the development of chorea in the pediatric population.