Case report

https://doi.org/10.20471/acc.2026.65.02.16

Reiter’s Syndrome Following Intravesical Bacillus Calmette- ‑Guérin Immunotherapy for Bladder Carcinoma in situ

Ivan Neretljak orcid.org/0000-0001-7068-1241 ; Merkur University Hospital, Department of Urology, Zagreb, Croatia *
Hrvoje Smojver ; Merkur University Hospital, Department of Urology, Zagreb, Croatia
Mario Jurinčić orcid.org/0000-0002-5699-2809 ; Merkur University Hospital, Department of Urology, Zagreb, Croatia
Mario Sučić ; Merkur University Hospital, Department of Urology, Zagreb, Croatia

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

Intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy after transurethral
resection of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer has been proven to reduce
the recurrence and progression of the disease. Unfortunately, the treatment
is associated with adverse effects that can induce other chronic health problems,
such as Reiter’s syndrome. In this case report, we present a 74-year-old
patient from Croatia who developed Reiter’s syndrome after intravesical BCG
instillations. Clinical diagnosis was based on symmetric knee arthritis following
bilateral conjunctivitis and urethritis. Symptoms of arthritis did not improve
with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections to the knees.
Consequently, an immunologist was consulted and Reiter’s syndrome was confirmed.
Oral glucocorticoids were administered, followed by full recovery of the
patient’s symptoms. Even though Reiter’s syndrome is uncommon, it is a significant
complication resulting from BCG immunotherapy. It should be immediately
recognized and appropriately treated.

Keywords

Reiter’s syndrome; Bacillus Calmette-Guérin; Immunotherapy; Arthritis

Hrčak ID:

347708

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/347708

Publication date:

10.6.2026.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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