Arthritis is a common complication following various infections, including the respiratory virus SARS-CoV-2. A 2022 review highlights that reactive arthritis may occur in genetically predisposed individuals 1–4 weeks after such infections. This brings into focus the relationship between COVID-19 and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). People with RA are at an increased risk for infections, including COVID-19, a highly infectious virus that spreads through airborne respiratory droplets.
Recent reports have indicated instances of arthralgia and arthritis following SARS-CoV-2 infection. This includes patients who were negative for rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA). One case describes a man developing arthritis post-COVID-19 infection. The risk of severe COVID-19 is higher among people with RA, necessitating precautions and awareness. Autoantibodies, such as anti-cardiolipin, anti-β2-glycoprotein I, and antinuclear antibodies, have been reported in COVID-19 patients. There’s also evidence of ACPA occurrence and flaring of RA after SARS-CoV-2 infection, though the frequency and implications are still being studied.
For individuals with inflammatory arthritis, getting the COVID-19 vaccine and its booster is crucial. It offers significant protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. However, people with autoimmune diseases and those on DMARDs might have a lower response rate.
There’s an ongoing exploration of the rheumatological complications following COVID-19. This includes a comprehensive literature search conducted from January 2020 to April 2021, focusing on the sequelae of COVID-19 in rheumatological contexts. Symptoms like arthralgia have been noted in 14.9% of COVID-19 cases, with some developing into more severe rheumatic and inflammatory manifestations like arthritis.
To understand more about the connection between Coronavirus and Rheumatoid Arthritis, it’s crucial for individuals with RA to take extra precautions against COVID-19. Their higher risk of contracting the virus demands heightened vigilance and preventive measures.
For further information, please refer to the full articles from Medical News Today, Verywell Health, The Lancet Rheumatology, Hospital for Special Surgery, BMJ, and the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
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