Reactive arthritis

Reactive arthritis (also known as Reiter's syndrome or Reiter's disease) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that develops as a reaction to an infection somewhere else in the body. The infection usually starts in the gut, urinary tract, or genitals, and then the immune system — while trying to fight off the infection — mistakenly attacks the joints, eyes, and sometimes the skin. The joints most often affected are the knees, ankles, and feet, but other joints can be involved too. The main symptoms include joint pain and swelling, eye inflammation (called conjunctivitis or uveitis), and sometimes painful urination or skin rashes. Not everyone gets all three of these symptoms. The condition most commonly appears in young adults, especially men between the ages of 20 and 40, though anyone can develop it. Most people with reactive arthritis recover fully within a few months to a year. However, some people develop a long-lasting or recurring form of the disease. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms using anti-inflammatory medicines, antibiotics (if an active infection is still present), and physical therapy. There is no cure, but most people do very well with proper care.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.What infection likely triggered my reactive arthritis, and do I still need treatment for it?,Should I be tested for HLA-B27, and what would a positive result mean for my long-term outlook?,How long should I expect my symptoms to last, and what are the signs that it is becoming chronic?,What medications are best for my joint pain, and what are the risks of long-term use?,Do I need to see an eye doctor, and how often should my eyes be checked?,Are there lifestyle changes or exercises that can help prevent flares or joint damage?,What should I do if my symptoms come back after I recover?

Common questions about Reactive arthritis