Polyarthritis following a streptococcal infection, a doctor's dilemma in treatment: a case report.

INTRODUCTION: Acute Rheumatic Fever and Post Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis in adults can present in a similar manner. CASE PRESENTATION: A 25 year old Caucasian male developed a transient crippling polyarthritis one month following treatment of a sore throat. The patient was found to meet criteria for both Acute Rheumatic Fever and Post Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis, leading to the question of the role of antibiotic prophylaxis long term. CONCLUSION: Due to overlap in the diagnostic criteria for Acute Rheumatic Fever and Post Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis in adults, the need for penicillin prophylaxis should be individualized based on exposure risk.