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Reactive arthritis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Reiter syndrome

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and treat any underlying infection.

Conjunctivitis and skin lesions associated with the syndrome do not require treatment, and will go away on their own.

Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics if you have an infection. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) and pain relievers may be recommended for those with joint pain. If a joint is persistently inflammed, a doctor may inject a strong anti-inflammatory medicine (corticosteroids) into the area.

Physical therapy can help relieve pain, help you move better, and maintain muscle strength. You may need to make work adjustments if your job requires heavy lifting or strenuous use of the back.

Therapy to suppress the immune system may be considered for individuals with a severe case of the disease, but this treatment is not used in most people because of toxic side effects.

Expectations (prognosis):

Reactive arthritis may go away in 3 to 4 months, but up to a half of those affected have symptoms return over a period of several years. The condition may become chronic .

Complications:

• Aortic insufficiency (rare)
• Arrhythmias (rare)
• Uveitis

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of this condition develop.

References:

Kasper DL, ed: Reactive arthritis. In: Harrison's Online . Part 13. Section 2. Chap 305. McGraw Hill; 2004.

• Review Date: 4/27/2007
• Reviewed By: Steve Lee, DO, Rheumatology Fellow, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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