Chlamydia-induced arthritis is a type of reactive arthritis, also called Reiter's syndrome. Reactive arthritis can be caused by a number of different organisms, but chlamydia is the most common cause in the Western world, according to "Current Opinions in Rheumatology." Men between the ages of 20 and 40 are most likely to develop arthritis as a result of contracting chlamydia.
Biology
After chlamydia infects the genitals or urinary tract, it may induce an inflammatory response that can lead to arthritis. The disorder has a genetic link, and people with a specific gene -- human leukocyte antigen B27-- are more likely to develop arthritis if they contract chlamydia, according to American Family Physician. However, some people with this gene variant avoid reactive arthritis despite having a chlamydia infection.
Symptoms
Symptoms of chlamydia-induced arthritis typically start to appear one to three weeks after the initial infection, explains the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Arthritis caused by chlamydia most often involves the lower half of the body, with symptoms appearing in the knees, ankles, feet, hips and back. Other symptoms that may be associated with reactive arthritis include inflammation of the urethra and conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. Skin or genital sores may also occur in conjunction with chlamydia-induced arthritis.
Diagnosis
Because there are no direct tests for chlamydia-induced arthritis, the doctor has to look for other cues to diagnose the disease, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. He may perform a blood test to determine whether the person has the gene for human leukocyte antigen B27. He may also test whether the individual has another form of arthritis using tests specific to these types. The doctor may take a sample of the fluid inside the affected joint to look for microorganisms. Cell swabs from the genital area or a urine sample can provide confirmation of a systemic chlamydia infection.
Treatment
According to American Family Physician, treating a chlamydia patient with the antibiotic doxycycline may help prevent reactive arthritis from developing or shorten the time arthritic symptoms are present. Using a combination of multiple antibiotics is another method of treating chlamydia and associated reactive arthritis. For those who have already developed reactive arthritis from a chlamydia infection, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid injections can help lessen swelling and pain.
Prognosis
In some cases of chlamydia-induced arthritis, the pain and swelling decrease after the infection has been treated. In others, the arthritis may develop into a chronic condition. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, most people with reactive arthritis experience symptoms for three to 12 months after infection.
Alternative Diagnosis
Chlamydia is not the only organism to cause reactive arthritis. Other potential causative organisms include campylobacter, shigella, salmonella and yersinia. Arthritis may also have other causes, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
