Autoimmune/Rheumatic

Reactive Arthritis

Reactive arthritis is joint pain and swelling triggered by an infection in another part of the body, most often the intestines, genitals, or urinary tract. The condition most commonly targets the knees and the joints of the ankles and feet. It is also known as Reiter's syndrome.

6

Symptoms

2

Causes

4

Treatments

3

Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Reactive Arthritis. This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Joint pain and swelling
  • Eye inflammation (conjunctivitis)
  • Urinary problems
  • Skin rash (especially on palms and soles)
  • Mouth sores
  • Heel pain

Causes

  • Triggered by bacterial infections: Chlamydia, Salmonella, Shigella, Yersinia, Campylobacter
  • HLA-B27 gene association

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination
  • Blood tests (inflammation markers, HLA-B27)
  • Cultures to identify the triggering infection
  • Joint fluid analysis
  • X-rays

Treatment

  • Treating the underlying infection (antibiotics)
  • NSAIDs
  • Corticosteroids
  • DMARDs for chronic cases

Risk Factors

  • Age 20–40
  • Male sex
  • HLA-B27 gene
  • STI risk

Prevention

  • Safe sex practices
  • Safe food handling
  • Prompt treatment of infections

Prevalence

Incidence of about 30–40 cases per 100,000 persons per year.