Viral arthritis

Arthralgia is a common presentation to general practice, and many cases will not require any specific treatment. It is important to differentiate viral arthritis from other causes as early intervention in inflammatory arthritis has been shown to improve long-term outcome.

This article provides a review of the different causes of viral arthritis, with an emphasis on recognising the clues to a viral cause, and summarises appropriate investigations and management.

Viral arthritis is typically self-limiting and requires no specific intervention, although in rare cases symptoms can be prolonged. Some viruses have a predilection for the joints, and arthritis is one of the common presenting signs of infection. It may also be a manifestation of important treatable viral infections such as hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Early systemic inflammatory arthritis can be difficult to differentiate from viral arthritis and should be actively considered in all patients. Comprehensive testing for viral aetiologies is of limited utility.