Description Juvenile rheumatoid...
Description
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is inflammation of the joints that occurs before the age of seventeen that is present for at least 6 weeks. It is most likely an auto-immune disorder. For some reason, the body begins to look at part of itself as foreign material like a virus or bacteria. In juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, the body attacks the lining inside joints causing inflammation and damage.
Symptoms
Symptoms include joint pain and swelling, stiffness, a rash, and low-grade fever. The symptoms can come and go and vary in severity depending on the joints involved.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests and x-rays are usually performed. Other causes of arthritis such as infection and systemic lupus need to be ruled out. Making the diagnosis can be challenging.
Tests:
Antinuclear antibody (ANA), Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Joint fluid analysis
Other Specific Tests: Rheumatoid factor,
Specialists:
Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Rheumatology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests and x-rays are usually performed. Other causes of arthritis such as infection and systemic lupus need to be ruled out. Making the diagnosis can be challenging.
Tests:
Antinuclear antibody (ANA), Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Joint fluid analysis
Other Specific Tests: Rheumatoid factor,
Specialists:
Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Rheumatology
Treatment
Treatment is directed at relieving symptoms and stopping inflammation in the joints to help avoid permanent damage. Doctors try to prescribe the least toxic medicines that will accomplish these goals. In mild cases, anti-inflammatory agents such as ibuprofen and naproxen may be sufficient. Corticosteroids injected into joints or taken by mouth (prednisone) can also be used. If symptoms persist, the person may need a disease modifying drug, such as hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), methotrexate or a biologic agent. Examples of biologic agents include leflunomide (Arava), adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel), Infliximab (Remicade), and anakinra (Kineret). Physical therapy can be helpful to maintain joint function and mobility.