Atypical sequelae of knee arthroscopy and reactive arthritis

Aim. To evaluate the reasons for atypical sequelae of knee arthroscopy.
Material. A group of 11 patients (6 women and 5 men), age 17-56 (mean 33.4), referred for rheumatological consulation because of persistent exudates and/or pain in the operated joint. Infectious arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and gout were excluded. Immunological diagnostics were performed on all patients, testing for the presence of anti-Chlamydia trachomatis, anti-Yersinia enterocolitica, anti-Salmonella enteritidis and typhimurium antibodies.
Results. In 10/11 patients various antibodies were detected (most often anti-Chlamydia trachomatis antibodies). Other reasons for atypical sequelae of knee arthroscopy included pigmentous villo-nodular synovitis and chondrocalcinosis. The Discussion presents those clinical symptoms and signs appearing in orthopedic examinations that serve as indications for rheumatological consultation.
Conclusion. The most common reason for atypical sequelae of knee arthroscopy is reactive arthritis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and G(-) enteric bacteria infections.