Xenograft calcification in Reiter's syndrome

Reiter's syndrome is characterized by multiple joint arthropathy, and can affect the heart. One manifestation of cardiac involvement is aortic insufficiency that may require valve replacement. Herein is reported a case with rapidly progressive and severe calcification of a bovine pericardial prosthesis seven years after implantation, in the setting of Reiter's syndrome. Based on this experience, it is suggested that echocardiographic evaluations be scheduled more frequently than usual if a bioprosthetic rather than mechanical valve is chosen for a patient with Reiter's syndrome.