Which condition caused by Salmonella attacks the cartilage of joints?

Reactive arthritis is the condition that is caused by a Salmonella infection and specifically affects the joints, including the cartilage. This inflammatory arthritis typically occurs as a response following an infection in another part of the body, commonly in the gastrointestinal or urinary tract. In the case of Salmonella, the bacteria can lead to an immune response that results in joint inflammation, particularly involving the kneecaps, ankles, and toes.

The unique aspect of reactive arthritis is that it does not occur immediately after the infection; rather, symptoms may appear weeks to months later as the body continues to react to the antigens from the initial infection. This condition is characterized by symptoms such as swelling, pain, and stiffness in the affected joints.

Other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and gout, have different etiologies and mechanisms. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the synovial membrane, while osteoarthritis is degenerative and linked to wear and tear of joint cartilage. Gout is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation. None of these conditions are directly linked to Salmonella infections.