Which is the most common viral arthritis?

• A. Hepatitis B
• B. HIV
• C. Parvovirus B19
• D. Hepatitis C

Answer: (C)

Parvovirus B19 infection is the most common cause of acute viral arthritis. In adults it typically presents with a sudden, symmetric inflammatory arthritis affecting the small joints of the hands (especially metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints), and can involve the wrists or knees. The arthritis may occur with or without the characteristic rash seen in children, and it often resembles rheumatoid arthritis but is seronegative for rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP. Diagnosis is supported by acute infection markers such as Parvovirus B19 IgM antibodies. The arthritis is usually self-limited, resolving over weeks to a few months. While hepatitis B and C, and HIV can be associated with arthritis, they are less common causes of acute viral arthritis compared with Parvovirus B19.