Arthritis after SARS-CoV-2 infection has become a subject of discussion in the medical community, with emerging evidence suggesting a possible connection. For instance, post-COVID-19 reactive arthritis has been reported, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition. This phenomenon is not exclusive to the novel coronavirus, as other viral infections have also been known to trigger arthritis in susceptible individuals.
Studies have identified autoantibodies, such as anti-cardiolipin, anti-β2-glycoprotein I, and antinuclear antibodies, in patients with COVID-19. Additionally, instances of Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) and flares of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) following SARS-Cov-2 infection have been noted. However, the frequency of ACPA occurrences post-infection remains uncertain.
Interestingly, arthritis has been observed in patients post-COVID-19 who were negative for both rheumatoid factor (RF) and ACPA. An article in The Lancet Rheumatology described a case of a man developing arthritis subsequent to a COVID-19 infection.
A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology in May 2021, which examined a cohort of veterans, found that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis had a 25% higher risk of contracting COVID-19, with a 35% greater risk of hospitalization or death from the virus compared to those without RA.
The COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about the potential exacerbation of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, as the virus can lead to an overactive immune response, which is implicated in severe cases among the general population. Reviews have suggested increased interest in the interplay between the virus and autoimmune conditions.
For those with RA, it’s crucial to take additional precautions against COVID-19. According to Healthline, patients may face a higher risk of infection. Moreover, COVID-19 has been known to trigger autoimmune responses, with immunological anomalies being reported during the infection’s progression.
Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and the common therapies involved can affect immune system functionality. This impact is significant when considering the relationship between COVID-19 and RA, as detailed by HSS.
