A pattern of arthritis characterized by the rapid onset of arthritic symptoms (e.g., joint pain, swelling, limited range of motion) in one or two joints, which is then followed by resolution and parallel appearance of symptoms in other joints, usually in an asymmetric manner. Associated with conditions including rheumatic fever, Lyme disease, sarcoidosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, bacterial endocarditis, and disseminated gonococcal infection.