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Polyarthritis associated with hepatitis C virus infection
Y Ueno1, R Kinoshita, I Kishimoto
1Department of Medicine, Shichikawa Arthritis Research Centre, Mie, Japan.
British Journal of Rheumatology
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Polyarthritis, an inflammatory joint condition, can be associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. These cases demonstrate a link between HCV antigenaemia and the development of joint symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Hepatology
- Virology
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant global health concern, primarily affecting the liver.
- The extrahepatic manifestations of HCV are diverse and can involve various organ systems.
- Arthritis is a recognized, though less common, extrahepatic manifestation of HCV infection.
Observation:
- Two distinct cases of polyarthritis are presented in association with hepatitis C infection.
- Patient 1 experienced acute and recurrent transient polyarthritis during the course of HCV infection, with persistent viral RNA detected.
- Patient 2 presented with polyarthritis linked to chronic hepatitis C liver disease, confirmed by synovial biopsy showing mononuclear cell infiltration and viral RNA in serum and synovial fluid.
Findings:
- Hepatitis C viral RNA (HCV RNA) was detected in the serum of both patients, confirming active viral presence.
- Synovial biopsy in one patient revealed inflammatory changes consistent with an immune-mediated process.
- The findings suggest a direct etiological association between hepatitis C antigenaemia and the development of polyarthritis.
Implications:
- These cases highlight the importance of considering HCV infection in patients presenting with unexplained polyarthritis.
- Early diagnosis and management of HCV may potentially prevent or alleviate associated arthritic conditions.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms linking HCV to joint inflammation.