Chikungunya-related arthritis: Case report and review of the literature

Introduction

Chikungunya fever often presents with severe arthritis/arthralgias, high fever, myalgias, headache, and maculopapular rash (Chow et al., 2011 [1]; Das et al., 2010 [2]; Mizuno et al., 2011 [3]; Powers, 2010 [4]; Sissoko et al., 2010 [5]; Staples et al., 2009 [6]). Persistent arthritis/arthralgias commonly develop after symptomatic infection and are the most common long-term complication (Chow et al., 2011 [1]; Powers, 2010 [4]; Sissoko et al., 2010 [5]; Staples et al., 2009 [6]). The small joints are most often affected in a symmetric pattern that can mimic adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (Mizuno et al., 2011 [3]; Bouquillard and Combe, 2009 [7]; Chabbra et al., 2008 [8]; Jaffar-Bandjee et al., 2009 [9]; Simon et al., 2007 [10]).

Objective

We present a case of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV)-induced arthritis and review the literature surrounding Chikungunya-induced arthritis/arthralgias and associated musculoskeletal (MSK) manifestations.

Methods

A Medline search was completed from 1946—November 2011. Key words included Chikungunya virus and arthritis. A PubMed search was completed from 1996—November 2011. Search terms included Chikungunya virus, etiology, and fever. Searches were limited to humans and English language publications. Additional relevant articles were obtained from the reference lists.