REACTIVE ARTHRITIS AND THE ORGANISM MICROBIOME IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Introduction. In reactive arthritis (ReA), both the risk of development and the outcomes of the disease are largely associated with the initial state of the body, especially in children. One component linked to the potential outcome and modifiable is the state of the body's microbiome. Research Objective: Improving the diagnosis of the course of reactive arthritis and the subsequent disease prognosis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional clinical study conducted from 2019 to 2022 at the University hospital of the NCJSC «Semey Medical University». The study population consisted of 288 children without ReA aged 6 to 18 years. The main group included 146 children with ReA. The research methods involved a comprehensive examination of children according to the Diagnostic and Treatment Protocol, analysis of the composition of the intestinal microbiome using chromatography-mass spectrometry, and statistical methods. Results: Significant differences in the structure of the microbiome and related parameters have been identified as a result of the study. Specifically, in the presence of ReA, a decrease in the content of the most common obligate and an increase in resident microorganisms, microscopic fungi, and organisms not normally found in the 13-18 age group population have been identified. Conclusion: The study revealed disruptions in the organism's microbiome, as determined by the established method, in the presence of ReA. A decrease in the overall content of resident microorganisms and an increase in transient and nonnormative microorganisms were observed. Significant changes in the microbiome composition were identified in children with ReA, impacting the course of the inflammatory process, leading to a prolonged disease duration. The disease indicators persisted not only clinically but also in laboratory data.