Reiter's Syndrome

Reiter's syndrome, also known as reactive arthritis, 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

Reiter's syndrome is usually triggered by a bacterial infection, such as Chlamydia trachomatis or Salmonella, Shigella, Yersinia, or Campylobacter. The exact mechanism of how the infection leads to arthritis is not fully understood, but it is thought that the immune system's response to the infection causes inflammation in the joints.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Reiter's syndrome can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Joint pain and swelling, typically affecting the knees, ankles, and feet
• Redness and warmth around the affected joints
• Eye inflammation (conjunctivitis or uveitis)
• Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)
• Lesions on the skin, such as keratoderma blennorrhagica
• Mouth ulcers

Diagnosis

Diagnosing Reiter's syndrome 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 and physical examination
• Laboratory tests, such as blood tests and joint fluid analysis
• Imaging studies, such as X-rays or ultrasound

Treatment

Treatment for Reiter's syndrome typically involves a combination of:

• Antibiotics to treat the underlying infection
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow disease progression
• Physical therapy to maintain joint mobility and strength

Prognosis

The prognosis for Reiter's syndrome varies depending on the severity of the symptoms and the effectiveness of treatment. In some cases, the symptoms may resolve on their own within a few months, while in other cases, the condition can become chronic.

Complications

If left untreated or undertreated, Reiter's syndrome can lead to complications such as:

• Chronic joint damage and disability
• Eye damage and vision loss
• Increased risk of developing other types of arthritis