Reactive Arthritis

Reactive arthritis, also known as Reiter's syndrome, is a type of arthritis that occurs as a reaction to an infection elsewhere in the body, typically in the gastrointestinal tract or the urinary tract.

Causes and Risk Factors

Reactive arthritis is usually triggered by a bacterial infection, such as:

• Chlamydia trachomatis, a common sexually transmitted infection
• Salmonella, Shigella, and Yersinia, which can cause food poisoning
• Clostridium difficile, a bacterium that can cause diarrhea and colitis

Other factors that may increase the risk of developing reactive arthritis include:

• Genetic predisposition, particularly in individuals with HLA-B27 gene
• Age, typically affecting young adults
• Sex, more common in men than women

Symptoms

The symptoms of reactive arthritis can vary from person to person but often include:

• Joint pain and swelling, particularly in the knees, ankles, and feet
• Redness and warmth around the affected joints
• Limited mobility and stiffness in the affected joints
• Eye inflammation, such as conjunctivitis or uveitis
• Urethritis, which can cause burning during urination and discharge
• Mouth sores or ulcers
• Rash on the skin, particularly on the palms and soles

Diagnosis

Diagnosing reactive arthritis can be challenging, as the symptoms are similar to those of other types of arthritis. A diagnosis is typically made based on a combination of:

• Medical history, including recent infections or exposure to bacteria
• Physical examination, to assess joint mobility and look for signs of inflammation
• Laboratory tests, such as blood work and joint fluid analysis, to rule out other conditions
• Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to evaluate joint damage

Treatment

Treatment for reactive arthritis typically focuses on managing symptoms and reducing inflammation. This may include:

• Antibiotics, to treat the underlying bacterial infection
• Pain relief medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), to slow disease progression and reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy, to maintain joint mobility and strength
• Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding triggers and maintaining a healthy weight

Complications and Prognosis

If left untreated or poorly managed, reactive arthritis can lead to complications such as:

• Chronic joint damage and disability
• Eye problems, including vision loss
• Cardiovascular disease, due to chronic inflammation

The prognosis for reactive arthritis varies depending on the individual and the severity of symptoms. With proper treatment and management, many people are able to recover from reactive arthritis and lead active lives.