Viral arthritis

At a glance

• Viral infection is a common cause of acute symmetric polyarthritis, usually of the small joints of the hands, wrists and knees, often with fever, rash and fatigue.
• Main Australian causes: parvovirus B19, Ross River virus (RRV) and Barmah Forest virus (BFV), plus hepatitis B and C, HIV and rubella. In travellers, chikungunya and dengue.
• Most viral arthritis is non-erosive and self-limiting within 6 weeks. RRV often lasts months, and chikungunya can become chronic.