Reactive arthropathies are a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the joints. These conditions are usually caused by an infection or an immune system reaction. Reactive arthropathies affecting the hands are less common than those affecting the larger joints, but they can still cause significant pain and disability.
Here are some of the other reactive arthropathies that can affect the hands:
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects people with psoriasis. It can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as patches of red, scaly skin. Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the hands and fingers. In some cases, the joints at the tips of the fingers may become swollen and painful, causing a condition known as dactylitis.
Reactive arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs as a reaction to an infection in another part of the body. It can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as inflammation in other areas of the body, such as the eyes, skin, and urinary tract. Reactive arthritis can affect the joints in the hands, causing pain and stiffness that can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks.
Undifferentiated spondyloarthropathy is a term used to describe a group of inflammatory arthritis conditions that do not fit into any specific category. It can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, as well as other symptoms such as fatigue and eye inflammation. Undifferentiated spondyloarthropathy can affect any joint in the body, including the hands and fingers.
Enteropathic arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. It can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as other symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. Enteropathic arthritis can affect the joints in the hands, causing pain and stiffness that can interfere with everyday activities.
If you are experiencing joint pain, swelling, or stiffness in your hands, it is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Other conditions, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can cause similar symptoms and require different treatments. Your doctor can help you determine the cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan to help you manage your condition.