Arthralgia associated with acute urinary retention. A syndrome of probable viral etiology

Four patients are described in whom paresthesia and arthralgia developed in association with acute urinary retention. Neurologic and musculoskeletal complaints persisted for varying periods, up to five years, after cessation of urinary symptoms. Significantly elevated titers to Herpes simplex and Herpes zoster viruses were observed in three and four subjects, respectively, although none exhibited cutaneous lesions of herpetic infection. The symptom complex, presumably the result of viral radiculitis, may present in varying patterns that can be confused with lumbar disc protrusion, obstructive uropathy or primary rheumatic disorder. Diagnostic studies requisite for documentation of a viral etiology of the syndrome are discussed.