[Reiter's syndrome and human immunodeficiency virus infection]

The increase of rheumatic disorders in HIV infected has been known for the last decade with special emphasis on Reiter's Syndrome. In spite of common sources of HIV and other microorganisms being important in the pathogenesis of Reiter's Syndrome, severe immunodeficiency may be important in the development of rheumatic diseases, mainly because of the presence of arthritogenic microorganisms. The decrease of TCD4 lymphocytes, the increase of TCD8 lymphocytes and the modification of immune regulation may be important in the pathogenesis of Reiter's Syndrome in patients infected by HIV. There is no clinical response to nonhormonal anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of this entity.