Reactive arthritis in tuberculosis : a case of Poncet's disease

• Main Authors: Ismail, Irmi Zarina, Ahmad, Zaiton, Hassan, Faezah
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia 2013
• Online Access: http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/29759/1/Reactive%20arthritis%20in%20tuberculosis.pdf; http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/29759/

Reactive arthritis and erythema are uncommon presentations of tuberculosis (TB). Reactive arthritis in tuberculosis (TB) is known as Poncet's disease, a rare aseptic form of arthritis observed in patients with active TB. We report a case of Poncet's disease in a 20-year old man whose reactive arthritis overshadowed other clinical symptoms of TB resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment. Although a conclusive diagnosis of Poncet's disease is not possible, reactive immunologic reactions such as reactive arthritis and erythema nodosum even without respiratory symptoms should raise suspicion on possible TB. Thus, taking a thorough medical history as well as performing relevant examinations and investigations for possible TB will help expedite the diagnostic process.