Reactive Arthritis Induced by Parasitic Infestation

Abstract
Arthritis developed in 2 patients during the course of infestation with Strongyloides stercoralis and Taenia saginata, respectively. The joint involvement was polyarticular and symmetrical but seronegative and nonerosive radiologically. Evidence of abnormal humoral immunity to the parasites, immune complexes in serum and synovial fluid and Ig deposits in the synovia was found. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents proved ineffective but specific antiparasitic treatment resulted in resolution of the symptoms and immunologic abnormalities. The interaction between the body''s immune system and parasites is further proved; possibly arthritis induced by parasitic infestation may be mediated by immune complex formation in susceptible hosts.

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