Viral arthritis

Definition:

Inflammation of the joints that results from a viral infection.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Arthritis may be a symptom of many viral illnesses. The duration is usually short, and it usually disappears on its own without any lasting effects. It may be associated with mumps, rubella, human parvovirus, and Hepatitis B. It may also occur after immunization with rubella vaccine. This is a common form of childhood joint discomfort.

Symptoms:

joint pain and joint swelling of one or more joints

Signs and tests:

A physical examination shows joint inflammation. A serology for viral agents may be performed.

Treatment:

Treatment is symptomatic with analgesics. If joint inflammation is severe, aspiration of fluid from the affected joint may relieve pain. In general, the arthritis is mild.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome is usually good. Most arthritis disappears within several days to weeks with resolution of the viral illness.

Complications:

There are usually no complications.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if arthritis symptoms persist continuously for longer than a few weeks.

Prevention:

There is no known way to prevent viral arthritis.

Review Date: 11/27/2001
Reviewed By: Birgit Kovacs, M.D., Division of Rheumatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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