Analysis of childhood reactive arthritis and comparison with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

There is currently no agreement on how to classify and diagnose reactive arthritis (ReA) and what kind of clinical and laboratory findings are specific for the diagnosis. This study retrospectively analyzed the initial clinical manifestations and laboratory findings in children diagnosed with ReA and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). A comparison was also made between these two groups to see if there were differences. A retrospective chart review was performed and 44 patients diagnosed with ReA and 80 patients with JIA were enrolled in this study. Their initial clinical manifestations and laboratory findings were also analyzed and compared. The initial clinical manifestations in ReA were analyzed including the demographic data, the preceding infection history, the duration of the infectious episode to the onset of arthritis, the duration of arthritic symptoms, and the involved joint pattern. Comparison of the initial laboratory findings between patients with ReA and JIA showed significant differences between erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESR) in the first hour, platelet counts (p < 0.05), and ESR in the second hour (p = 0.052). Further, comparing ReA with the subtypes of JIA, significant differences were noted between ReA and the systemic type in terms of hemoglobin level, platelet counts, C-reactive protein, and first and second hour ESR (p < 0.05). However, if compared with the polyarticular or pauciarticular type, only the platelet counts showed any significant statistical difference (p < 0.05). This study summarizes clinical experiences in ReA. The differences in laboratory findings of ReA and JIA may provide a clue in making a differential diagnosis.