Reactive Arthritis (Reiter Syndrome)

DC 5009Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5009

A type of inflammatory arthritis that starts after an infection, usually in the gut or urinary tract. It causes joint pain, swelling, and can also affect the eyes and urinary system. The VA rates reactive arthritis based on how active the disease is and how it limits your daily life.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 5009

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5009. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have reactive arthritis with completely disabling joint disease and severe extra-articular involvement. You are unable to work or care for yourself.

What the VA looks for

Totally incapacitating joint involvement
Severe constitutional manifestations
Unable to perform activities of daily living
Continuous immunosuppressive or biologic therapy
Documented total occupational and social impairment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the triggering infection — reactive arthritis is caused by a prior infection (often gastrointestinal or sexually transmitted), and linking the infection to military service is essential for establishing service connection.
⚠Not filing separate claims for eye and urinary tract involvement — conjunctivitis, uveitis, and urethritis are part of reactive arthritis but can be rated separately under their own diagnostic codes.
⚠Not getting HLA-B27 testing — this genetic marker is present in most reactive arthritis patients and strengthens the diagnosis, especially when symptoms are intermittent.
⚠Failing to document flare-ups — keep a symptom diary and seek medical care during every flare so the pattern and severity are in your records.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Musculoskeletal Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Reactive Arthritis (Reiter Syndrome)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5009

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have reactive arthritis with completely disabling joint disease and severe extra-articular involvement. You are unable to work or care for yourself.

What the VA looks for

Totally incapacitating joint involvement
Severe constitutional manifestations
Unable to perform activities of daily living
Continuous immunosuppressive or biologic therapy
Documented total occupational and social impairment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the triggering infection — reactive arthritis is caused by a prior infection (often gastrointestinal or sexually transmitted), and linking the infection to military service is essential for establishing service connection.

⚠Not filing separate claims for eye and urinary tract involvement — conjunctivitis, uveitis, and urethritis are part of reactive arthritis but can be rated separately under their own diagnostic codes.

⚠Not getting HLA-B27 testing — this genetic marker is present in most reactive arthritis patients and strengthens the diagnosis, especially when symptoms are intermittent.

⚠Failing to document flare-ups — keep a symptom diary and seek medical care during every flare so the pattern and severity are in your records.