M02: Reactive arthropathies

Reactive arthropathies refer to a group of joint conditions that occur as a reaction to an infection that originated elsewhere in the body. These conditions are typically triggered by bacterial infections, which can be in the intestines following food poisoning, the genitals following a sexually transmitted infection, or any other part of the body. The most common infections that trigger reactive arthropathies are chlamydia, salmonella, shigella, yersinia, and campylobacter. Symptoms often include swelling, redness, pain, and stiffness, especially in the knees, ankles, and feet. The inflammation may also affect the eyes, skin, and urethra, leading to additional symptoms such as eye redness and irritation, skin rashes, and painful urination. Reactive arthropathies typically emerge within a month following an infection and although these conditions can sometimes lead to long-term joint problems, most people can fully recover with appropriate medical care.