Childhood arthritis

A type of arthritis affecting children

Childhood arthritis, also known as juvenile arthritis, is a term used to describe arthritis in children under the age of 16. It encompasses a variety of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike adult arthritis, which is often due to wear and tear, childhood arthritis is typically an autoimmune disorder, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.

Types of Childhood Arthritis

Childhood arthritis can be classified into several types, each with distinct characteristics:

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis is the most common form of arthritis in children. It is an umbrella term that includes several subtypes:

• Oligoarticular JIA: Affects four or fewer joints in the first six months. It is the most common form and often affects the knees and ankles.
• Polyarticular JIA: Involves five or more joints and can be similar to adult rheumatoid arthritis.
• Systemic JIA: Also known as Still's disease, it affects the entire body, causing fever, rash, and inflammation of internal organs.
• Enthesitis-related arthritis: Involves inflammation of the entheses, where tendons attach to bones, and is often associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Psoriatic arthritis: Occurs in children with psoriasis, a skin condition, and involves joint inflammation.

Juvenile Dermatomyositis

Juvenile Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory disease that causes muscle weakness and a distinctive skin rash. It is an autoimmune condition that can also affect the joints.

Juvenile Lupus

Juvenile Lupus is a form of systemic lupus erythematosus that occurs in children. It can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, and other organs.

Juvenile Scleroderma

Juvenile Scleroderma is a rare condition that causes hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. It can be localized or systemic.

Symptoms

The symptoms of childhood arthritis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Joint pain and swelling
• Stiffness, especially in the morning
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Rash
• Loss of appetite
• Reduced physical activity

Diagnosis

Diagnosing childhood arthritis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Common diagnostic tools include:

• Blood tests to check for inflammation markers and autoantibodies
• Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to assess joint damage
• Physical examination to evaluate joint function and range of motion

Treatment

The treatment of childhood arthritis aims to relieve symptoms, maintain joint function, and prevent long-term damage. Treatment options include:

• Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents
• Physical therapy to improve joint function and muscle strength
• Occupational therapy to assist with daily activities
• Surgery in severe cases to repair or replace damaged joints

Prognosis

The prognosis for children with arthritis varies depending on the type and severity of the condition. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many children can achieve remission and lead active lives. However, some may experience chronic symptoms and require ongoing management.

Related pages

• Rheumatology
• Autoimmune disease
• Pediatric medicine