Final Answer:
Acute symmetric arthritis of the hands, knees, and ankle joints with flu-like symptoms is called Reactive arthritis. The correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reactive arthritis is the most likely diagnosis in this case due to the acute symmetric arthritis involving the hands, knees, and ankle joints, accompanied by flu-like symptoms. Reactive arthritis typically follows an infection in another part of the body, such as the genitourinary or gastrointestinal tract. The joint involvement in reactive arthritis tends to be asymmetrical, often affecting large joints like the knees and ankles, and may present with accompanying systemic symptoms, aligning with the described clinical scenario.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) usually presents with symmetrical joint involvement, but the involvement of small joints, such as those in the hands, is more characteristic. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may involve joints, but it is often associated with a wide range of symptoms affecting various organs, and acute gouty arthritis typically affects one joint at a time, commonly the big toe.
The combination of symmetric arthritis affecting hands, knees, and ankles with flu-like symptoms is more indicative of reactive arthritis, making option (c) the most appropriate choice based on the presented clinical features.