
Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Reactive arthritis laboratory findings
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of reactive arthritis include elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), and elevated total leukocyte count (TLC) showing increased polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs). Synovial fluid or synovial membrane biopsy for detection of bacterial DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or immunofluorescence microscopy.
Laboratory Findings
Laboratory Findings
Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of reactive arthritis include:[1][2]
- Elevated ESR
- Elevated C-reactive protein
- Elevated TLC showing increased PMNs
- Synovial fluid analysis to determine cell count, culture, glucose, and presence of crystals.
- Diagnostic lab evaluations include testing for HLA-B27, PCR or ELISA for reactive arthritis associated microorganisms.
- Laboratory evaluations required to establish infection with reactive arthritis causing organisms include routine urinalysis, culture of stool and urethral discharge.
- Synovial fluid or synovial membrane biopsy for detection of bacterial DNA by PCR or immunofluorescence microscopy.
- IgA antibodies to specific bacterial antigens
- Other test include tuberculin skin test and HIV.
References
References
- ↑ Colmegna I, Cuchacovich R, Espinoza LR (April 2004). “HLA-B27-associated reactive arthritis: pathogenetic and clinical considerations”. Clin. Microbiol. Rev. 17 (2): 348–69. PMC 387405. PMID 15084505.
- ↑ Locht H, Peen E, Skogh T (December 1995). “Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies in reactive arthritis”. J. Rheumatol. 22 (12): 2304–6. PMID 8835566.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
