Reactive arthritis after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2: A case series and a mini-review

Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2023 Dec 31;19(1):2173912. doi: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2173912. Epub 2023 Feb 6.

Abstract

The rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines became essential for addressing the global pandemic. Reactive arthritis after vaccination has been a rare phenomenon. Here, we present a case series of three patients with joint inflammation possibly attributed to COVID-19 immunization (mRNA and live adenovirus vectored vaccine). Symptoms were alleviated using non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and glucocorticoids. After follow-up, the patients have not been diagnosed with any other rheumatic disease. Reactive arthritis after the COVID-19 vaccine is an unusual adverse effect and poses a negligible risk in comparison to the benefits of immunization, but it should be considered in differential diagnostics by a practicing rheumatologist who cares for patients with new-onset arthritis without apparent cause at the time of pandemic.

Keywords: COVID vaccination; Reactive arthritis; adverse effect.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arthritis, Reactive*
  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • COVID-19*
  • Humans
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Vaccination
  • Vaccines, Attenuated

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • Vaccines, Attenuated

Grants and funding

The author(s) reported that there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.