Reactive arthritis (Reiter syndrome): The Daily PANCE Blueprint
Which genotype is most strongly associated with a predisposition to reactive arthritis?
A. HLA-B15
B. HLA-C
C. HLA-B46
D. HLA-DR2
E. HLA-B27
Answer and topic summary
The answer is E. HLA-B27
Reactive arthritis is the most common inflammatory polyarthritis in young men. There is a strong genetic component as the HLA-B27 genotype predisposes over 60% of patients with reactive arthritis. Classically this condition occurs in patients infected with Chlamydia trachomatis. Symptoms may include conjunctivitis, urethritis, and joint pain (usually asymmetric) aka “can’t see, can’t pee, can’t climb a tree” (this is not always present though). Treatment includes high doses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, doxycycline (if chlamydial origin is suspected), and intra-articular steroid injections for those with large joint involvement.
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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Musculoskeletal ⇒ ⇒
