Joint inflammation that follows an infection elsewhere in the body, often settling with time but benefiting from specialist assessment
Reactive arthritis is joint inflammation that develops as a reaction to an infection elsewhere in the body, often in the gut or urinary tract, usually appearing a few weeks afterwards. The infection itself may have settled by the time the joints become affected. In many people it improves over time, but assessment helps confirm the diagnosis and manage symptoms.
Written for patients and reviewed by Dr Liubov Borukhson, Consultant Rheumatologist (GMC 7021928).
Reactive arthritis typically comes on after an infection. Features may include:
Diagnosis is based on the pattern of symptoms, the recent history of infection, an examination and tests to look for inflammation and exclude other causes such as gout or other forms of arthritis. Confirming the picture helps guide treatment and reassurance about the likely course.
Ultrasound can help assess inflammation in the joints and tendons. Dr Borukhson uses point-of-care ultrasound during the consultation, so this can often be done in the same visit. You can read more on the ultrasound clinic page.
Treatment focuses on settling the joint inflammation and relieving symptoms while the condition runs its course. Anti-inflammatory measures are often the mainstay, and where a single joint is troublesome an ultrasound-guided injection may help. In the smaller number of people whose symptoms persist, longer-term treatment may be considered. The plan is agreed with you.
While reactive arthritis often improves with time, assessment confirms the diagnosis, excludes other causes of a hot, swollen joint, and ensures symptoms are managed well. If you have developed joint swelling after a recent infection, a specialist review can help.
A specialist assessment, with ultrasound where helpful, can confirm reactive arthritis, exclude other causes and manage your symptoms
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