There are different types of JA. These types include systemic, polyarticular, Enthesitis-related, and pauciarticular.
Systemic JA involves joint pain/swelling, fears, and rashes. This is the least common type.
Polyarticular JA involves a lot of joints, including large and small joints.
Pauciarticular JA, also known as oligoarticular JA, involves less than five joints and is the most common form of JA.
Another subtype of JIA is Enthesitis-related arthritis (what I have), which may also be called Spondyloarthropathy. In addition to chronic arthritis, these children have enthesitis, which is inflammation of structures, such as ligaments, around the joints, which may cause pain. Many of these patients may also have arthritis of the back and neck, as well as morning stiffness. Some children with Enthesitis-related Arthritis may also develop inflammation of their gastrointestinal system.
Symptoms of arthritis consist of joint pain, stiffness and swelling, though it can include uveitis, swollen lymph nodes, fevers, and rashes as well. Though blood test can assist in the diagnosis, blood tests can be perfectly normal in children and teens with JA. The determining factor is usually the presence of fluid in the joints.
Kids with arthritis may have to get frequent blood tests, take a variety of medications, see an opthamologist, and get MRIs, x-rays, and bone scans. NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen/Advil are often used, along with Methotrexate, a DMARD that decreases and prevents swelling. Biologic drugs, mainly Enbrel and Humira, also have to be used if the methotrexate and NSAIDS are not adequate. Physical therapy is also a common treatment for arthritis, as pain can result in extreme stiffness and muscle weakness. Corticosteroid injections can be used to relieve inflammation, which often decreases pain levels, but can be dangerous if used too frequently. In severe cases, children with JA can require surgery or joint replacement.
Children with arthritis are encouraged to stay active, though this can prove challenging due to pain and immobility resulting from arthritis. Muscles can weaken during periods of inactivity. It is important for children with JA to stay healthy and strong. Symptoms of arthritis can come and go (called remissions and flares).
Poor school attendance and disability may result from arthritis, though it is rarely life threatening. Almost 300,000 kids in the United States of America have some form of arthritis. Juvenile arthritis can cause depression and other psychological problems. It can make it hard to fit in at school and hard to concentrate and enjoy activities. Kids with arthritis may also experience trouble sleeping due to discomfort and pain.
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