Reactive arthritis after COVID-19 vaccination: 17 cases

Objectives The aim of the study is to report a series of 17 cases of ankle bi-arthritis that occurred shortly after coronavirus disease 2019 RNA vaccination, and to discuss the potential role of these vaccines in the pathogenesis of this rheumatological manifestation. Methods All patients were examined in the same department and received a full work-up to investigate the usual causes of ankle bi-arthritis. No rheumatic inflammatory disease occurred after 9 months of follow-up. A post-vaccination serological follow-up in search of anti-Spike antibodies was requested for all patients. Results All patients recovered with low dose of prednisolone within <2 months, except one who could not be weaned off CS. The level of antibodies found was very high in all patients. Conclusion The ankle bi-arthritis occurrence chronology, the follow-up and the similar clinical presentation might suggest a pathogenic role of RNA vaccination.