Related Experiment Videos
Juvenile Reiter's syndrome: a case report
Chiang-Hua Liao1, Jing-Long Huang, Kuo-Wei Yeh
1Division of Allergy, Asthma and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC.
Summary
Juvenile Reiter's syndrome (RS) is rare and often misdiagnosed. This case highlights key diagnostic indicators in children, including arthritis and conjunctivitis, especially with a family history of ankylosing spondylitis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Reiter's syndrome (RS), now often referred to as reactive arthritis, is uncommon in pediatric populations.
- The classic triad of arthritis, urethritis, and conjunctivitis is rarely observed simultaneously in children, leading to diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old boy presented with a 6-month history of intermittent knee arthralgia and several months of bilateral eye pain.
- Prior to admission, he developed oral ulcers, weight loss, and fever.
- Physical examination revealed conjunctivitis and a swollen, tender right knee with warmth over the patellar ligament.
Findings:
- Laboratory results were positive for human leukocyte antigen-B27 (HLA-B27) and negative for rheumatoid factor (RF) and antinuclear antibody (ANA).
- Urinalysis was normal.
- Diagnosis of RS was established based on concurrent arthritis and conjunctivitis, supported by positive HLA-B27 and a family history of ankylosing spondylitis.
Implications:
- Juvenile RS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of children presenting with arthritis and conjunctivitis.
- The presence of HLA-B27 positivity, negative RF/ANA, and a relevant family history strengthens the suspicion for RS.
- Early recognition and management are crucial for pediatric patients with reactive arthritis.