Reiter’s syndrome

Reiter's Syndrome is a type of arthritis that is typically associated with urethritis, conjunctivitis, and skin lesions. It is also known as reactive arthritis and is classified as a seronegative spondyloarthropathy. The syndrome is named after Hans Reiter, a German military doctor who first described the condition in 1916.

Etiology

Reiter's Syndrome is usually triggered by an infection, most commonly a sexually transmitted infection or a gastrointestinal infection. The most common pathogens associated with the syndrome are Chlamydia trachomatis, Salmonella, Shigella, Yersinia, and Campylobacter. The exact mechanism of how these infections lead to the syndrome is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response.

Clinical Features

The classic triad of symptoms in Reiter's Syndrome includes arthritis, urethritis, and conjunctivitis. However, not all patients will present with all three symptoms. The arthritis typically affects the lower limbs and is often asymmetric. Urethritis may present with symptoms such as dysuria and increased frequency of urination. Conjunctivitis may present with redness, itching, and discharge from the eyes.

Other symptoms may include skin lesions, such as keratoderma blennorrhagicum and circinate balanitis, and mucocutaneous lesions. Some patients may also develop cardiac or neurological complications.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Reiter's Syndrome is primarily clinical, based on the presence of the characteristic triad of symptoms. Laboratory tests may show an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP), indicating inflammation. Radiographic findings may show sacroiliitis and enthesitis.

Treatment

The treatment of Reiter's Syndrome is primarily symptomatic, with the aim of reducing inflammation and managing symptoms. This may involve the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). In cases where the syndrome is triggered by an infection, antibiotics may also be used.

Prognosis

The prognosis of Reiter's Syndrome varies. Some patients may recover completely, while others may have recurrent episodes or develop chronic arthritis.

See Also

• Arthritis
• Urethritis
• Conjunctivitis
• Seronegative spondyloarthropathy

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