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Reiter's syndrome

Reiter's syndrome (reactive arthritis) is a condition that may be triggered by a bacterial infection in the urinary or gastrointestinal tracts. It most often affects young men, although men of any age and women may also be affected.

Symptoms of Reiter's syndrome include:

  • Pain, swelling, and inflammation of the joints (arthritis), especially where the pelvis attaches to the spine (sacroiliac joint) and in the fingers, toes, and feet.
  • Inflammation of the eye (iritis).
  • Inflammation of the tube that carries urine out of the body (urethra). There may be discharge from the end of the penis (urethritis).
  • Discharge from the cervix, if it is affecting a woman.
  • Skin rash or small sores (ulcers), especially on the penis, on the soles of the feet, or in the mouth.

A number of different medications can be used to treat Reiter's syndrome.

Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 25, 2007
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