Clostridium difficile-associated reactive arthritis in two children

In adults, reactive arthritis (ReA) following Clostridium difficile-enterocolitis has been documented. In children, only one case of C difficile-associated ReA has been reported. We now describe two other cases of ReA associated with C difficile in children. The characteristics of ReA due to C difficile appear to be similar in adults and children. Both children show polyarthritis after an episode of diarrhoea with positive stool cultures for C difficile. Arthritis is asymmetrical with a self-limiting course. Nonsteroidal and inflammatory drug (NSAID) therapy is sufficient. One case is remarkable because of its prolonged course of ReA despite NSAID therapy, and its association with the presence of HLA-B27 Antigen. (C) 2003 Published by Elsevier SAS.