Description: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a type of arthritis that affects children and is characterized by inflammation of the joints. This condition can manifest in various ways, affecting one or more joint groups, and may be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever, skin rashes, and fatigue. JIA is considered ‘idiopathic’ because its exact cause is unknown, although it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors that trigger an autoimmune response. The disease can present in different forms, with the most common being oligoarticular arthritis, which affects a limited number of joints, and polyarticular arthritis, which involves multiple joints. JIA not only affects the mobility and quality of life of children but can also have long-term repercussions on their physical and emotional development. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to controlling inflammation and preventing permanent joint damage. Treatments may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying medications, and, in some cases, biological therapies. JIA is a complex condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving pediatricians, rheumatologists, and physiotherapists to provide comprehensive patient management.
History: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis was recognized as a clinical entity in the 1930s, although descriptions of similar conditions have been found in earlier medical texts. Over the years, the understanding of the disease has evolved, and in 1977, the classification of JIA was established by the International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR), which helped standardize diagnosis and treatment. Since then, numerous studies have improved the understanding of the pathology and led to the development of more effective treatments.
Uses: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is used as a clinical term to describe a group of rheumatic diseases affecting children and adolescents. Its identification and classification are essential for the proper management of patients, allowing physicians to select specific treatments and monitor disease progression. Additionally, research on JIA has led to advancements in the development of biological therapies that have significantly improved patients’ quality of life.
Examples: An example of juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the case of an 8-year-old girl who presents swelling in one knee and recurrent fever. After a thorough evaluation, she is diagnosed with oligoarticular JIA and begins treatment with NSAIDs and physical therapy. Over time, the girl shows significant improvement in her mobility and quality of life. Another case could be a teenager presenting symptoms of polyarticular JIA, affecting multiple joints, who responds positively to biological treatment, allowing them to resume their sports activities.
