Pauciarticular chronic arthritis

Pauciarticular Chronic Arthritis is a form of arthritis that affects four or fewer joints in the body. It is a subtype of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), which is the most common type of arthritis in children. The term "pauciarticular" means "few joints," indicating that the disease typically involves fewer joints compared to other forms of arthritis. This condition is characterized by inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected areas.

Classification

Pauciarticular Chronic Arthritis is classified into two main types based on the number of joints involved and the presence of certain antibodies in the blood:

• Type I: Affects mainly large joints such as the knees, ankles, and elbows. It is more common in girls than boys and often associated with antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) and Iridocyclitis, a type of eye inflammation.
• Type II: Involves both large and small joints and is more common in boys. It is associated with the presence of the HLA-B27 antigen and a higher risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis in adulthood.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of Pauciarticular Chronic Arthritis include:

• Joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
• Swelling and tenderness in the affected joints
• Limited range of motion in the affected joints
• In cases associated with iridocyclitis, symptoms may include eye redness, pain, and blurred vision.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Pauciarticular Chronic Arthritis involves a combination of clinical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests, including:

• Blood tests to check for inflammation markers and specific antibodies
• Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to assess joint damage and inflammation
• Eye examination by an ophthalmologist if eye involvement is suspected

Treatment

Treatment aims to control pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent joint damage. It may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and reduce inflammation
• Corticosteroids for severe inflammation, either taken orally or injected directly into the affected joint
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow disease progression
• Physical therapy to maintain joint function and muscle strength

Prognosis

The prognosis for children with Pauciarticular Chronic Arthritis varies. Many children experience periods of remission, where symptoms improve or disappear. However, some may have ongoing joint problems or develop complications such as growth disturbances or joint deformities. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to improving outcomes and quality of life.

See Also

• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Iridocyclitis
• Ankylosing Spondylitis

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