Reiter’s syndrome: what it is and how it is treated

Reiter’s syndrome is a rheumatic disease about which little is known about yet. We try to shed as much light as possible on the causes and related treatments.

When we talk about Reiter’s syndrome, also known as reactive arthritis, we mean a form of chronic arthritis that affects multiple areas at the same time.
Belonging to autoimmune diseases , its main characteristic is that of enclosing arthritis, urethritis and conjunctivitis.
It is estimated that it typically affects one in 30,000 people and is more likely to affect men .

Reiter’s syndrome: causes and symptoms

This syndrome tends to form after a urogenital or gastrointestinal infection.

For this reason, at least in the beginning, it can be really difficult to recognize it. And this even if there is a genetic test that in the case of the presence of a particular protein can indicate the possibility of its presence at least 70% . This will then be followed by subsequent checks that the doctor will have to evaluate all together before arriving at the final diagnosis.
For Reiter’s syndrome, symptoms are usually prostate infections for men and cervix or tubal infections in women. There are also widespread pain, swelling and inflammation in the joints.
Among the many, the most affected are the knees or feet.
In addition, the disease tends to affect the eyes as well, leading to the onset of conjunctivitis .
All of this is associated with fever, weight loss, mouth ulcers and nail problems. For all these reasons, Reiter’s syndrome is only correctly diagnosed when the above triad is taken into account.

Reiter’s syndrome: therapy to be implemented

When doctors suspect Reiter’s syndrome, initial treatment is usually antibiotics to reduce both inflammation and some of the symptoms.

If taken in time and well taken care of, the aftermaths are not many. In some, however, some patients may experience continuous pain for which analgesics and painkillers may be indispensable . In a few cases, chronic consequences can even develop. That said, in most cases the quality of life is not particularly affected and life expectancy is practically normal.