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Reactive arthritis associated with Clostridium difficile pseudomembranous colitis
1Division of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, Hadassah University Hospital, Ein-Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel.
Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Reactive arthritis can follow Clostridium difficile infection, a less common cause than Shigella or Salmonella. Early treatment with anti-inflammatory or anticlostridial drugs offers an excellent long-term prognosis for patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Reactive arthritis is frequently linked to gastrointestinal pathogens like Shigella, Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Yersinia.
- Pseudomembranous colitis caused by Clostridium difficile is an underrecognized cause of reactive arthritis.
Observation:
- This review presents an illustrative case of reactive arthritis secondary to Clostridium difficile infection.
- Clinical features and characteristics of reported patients with this association are analyzed.
Findings:
- The pathogenesis involves an immunological response to bacterial antigens entering the bloodstream via increased intestinal permeability.
- Therapeutic strategies include non-specific anti-inflammatory drugs, anticlostridial agents, or combination therapy.
Implications:
- Effective treatment options exist for reactive arthritis associated with Clostridium difficile.
- While persistent joint issues are possible, the long-term prognosis for this condition is generally excellent.