Arthritis in children

Arthritis in Children
Other names	Pediatric arthritis, Juvenile arthritis
Specialty	Pediatrics, Rheumatology
Symptoms	Joint pain, swelling, redness, warmth, stiffness
Complications	Growth problems, joint damage, eye inflammation
Usual onset	Typically before age 16
Duration	Can be chronic
Types	Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, Juvenile lupus erythematosus
Causes	Autoimmune, genetic factors, environmental factors
Diagnostic method	Based on symptoms, blood tests, imaging
Differential diagnosis	Infection, Injury, other rheumatic diseases
Treatment	NSAIDs, immunosuppressants, physical therapy
Medication	Methotrexate, Biologic agents
Prognosis	Variable

Arthritis in children, also known as pediatric arthritis or juvenile arthritis, encompasses several types of arthritis that affect children. The most common form is Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), previously known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. This condition is characterized by persistent joint inflammation that lasts for at least six weeks and typically manifests before the age of 16.

Types

There are several types of juvenile arthritis, including:

• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) - the most common form, which includes several subtypes itself such as oligoarticular, polyarticular, and systemic JIA.
• Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) - an older term that was predominantly used in the United States before being subsumed under JIA.
• Juvenile lupus erythematosus - a less common type of arthritis in children that is associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Symptoms

Common symptoms of arthritis in children include:

• Persistent joint pain
• Swelling in one or more joints
• Redness and warmth in the affected area
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
• Difficulty with normal activities such as walking, dressing, and playing

Causes

The exact causes of juvenile arthritis remain unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The immune system's role is significant, as it mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, causing inflammation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing arthritis in children involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies like X-rays or MRI. It is crucial to rule out other conditions such as infections or injuries that can cause similar symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment aims to reduce pain and inflammation, maintain full movement of affected joints, and prevent complications. Treatment options include:

• NSAIDs - to reduce pain and inflammation
• Immunosuppressants - such as methotrexate, to control the immune system
• Biologic agents - to target specific parts of the immune response
• Physical therapy - to maintain and improve joint function

Prognosis

The prognosis for children with arthritis varies. Many children experience periods of remission, where symptoms improve or disappear. However, some may experience ongoing joint problems and other complications such as growth disturbances and eye inflammation.

See also

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Autoimmune diseases