Still disease

Still's Disease is a rare systemic inflammatory disorder that is characterized by high fevers, rash, and joint pain. It can affect both children and adults, but when it occurs in children, it is referred to as Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SJIA) and as Adult-Onset Still's Disease (AOSD) when it affects adults. The cause of Still's Disease is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Still's Disease can vary from person to person but typically include:

• High, spiking fevers that often rise in the evenings and then suddenly drop to normal
• A salmon-pink rash that usually appears on the trunk, arms, or legs during a fever
• Joint pain and stiffness that can be severe and affect any joint
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Enlarged spleen or liver

Diagnosis

Diagnosing Still's Disease can be challenging as there is no single test for the condition. Doctors rely on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests to make a diagnosis. These tests may include:

• Blood tests to check for high levels of inflammation and to rule out other conditions
• Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to look for joint damage

Treatment

Treatment for Still's Disease aims to control symptoms and prevent damage to joints. Treatment options may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Corticosteroids to control severe symptoms
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow the progression of the disease
• Biologic agents, specifically interleukin-1 and interleukin-6 inhibitors, which target specific parts of the immune system

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with Still's Disease varies. Some people may experience only one episode of the disease, while others may have recurrent episodes or chronic disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to improving the outcome and preventing joint damage.

Epidemiology

Still's Disease is a rare disorder, with Adult-Onset Still's Disease being more rare than its juvenile counterpart. The exact incidence and prevalence of the disease are not well-known due to its rarity.