Definition

Reiter’s syndrome is an inflammatory reaction to an infection somewhere in the body. It usually follows an infection of the urinary, genital, or digestive tract. It is treated with rest and medication.

Causes

Reiter's syndrome is triggered by certain infections. It is usually caused by the bacterium that causes chlamydia. Chlamydia is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner. The infection can also begin in the digestive system. In these cases, the infection occurs after eating food tainted with bacteria.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your chances of getting Reiter's syndrome:

• Family members with Reiter's syndrome
• Inheriting the genetic trait associated with Reiter’s syndrome (HLA-B27)
• Having a chlamydia infection or an infection in the digestive system

Symptoms

Symptoms occur in the joints, the eyes, the urinary tract, and genitals. Men and women may experience different symptoms. In rare cases, heart problems may develop later in the disease.

Urinary Tract and Reproductive System

In men:

• Burning sensation when passing urine
• Penile discharge

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In women:

• Burning sensation when passing urine
• Inflamed vagina and cervix

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your doctor uses these findings to help make the diagnosis. There is no specific test to check for Reiter’s syndrome.

Your doctor may need to test your bodily fluids and tissues. This can be done with:

• Blood tests
• Culture, gram stain, or other tests
• Removal of fluid from the affected joints

Your doctor may need pictures of your bodily structures. This can be done with x-rays.

Treatment

There is no cure for Reiter’s syndrome. Most people recover from the initial episode within 12 months. Others develop mild, chronic arthritis. Some suffer from additional episodes of the disorder.

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and may include:

Prevention

To reduce your chances of Reiter's syndrome:

• Always use a latex condom during sexual activity
• Have a monogamous relationship
• Do not go back and forth between sexual partners
• Have regular checkups for sexually transmitted diseases
• Wash hands before eating or handling food
• Only eat foods that have been stored and prepared properly