Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is a term used to describe a group of chronic inflammatory joint conditions that affect children and adolescents. It is the most common rheumatic disease in childhood. The term "idiopathic" means that the cause of the condition is unknown.
Several subtypes fall under the JIA umbrella including:
Symptoms of AiArthritis Diseases Regardless of Diagnosis
“Auto” Symptoms
Reference: Early Symptoms of AiArthritis Study, AiArthritis, 2019.
Typically the joint pain will coincide with one or more “Auto” symptoms and start and stop suddenly - for no apparent reason (which is called a "flare"). Some people will experience all of the above symptoms, others only a few. If you have any of the arthritis features, and at least one of the “Auto” features, please consult your physician about a referral to a rheumatologist.
Symptoms Often Associated with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis:
What fellow patients want you to know
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There’s no single definitive test that can confirm a juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) diagnosis, so rheumatologists look at a combination of physical exam, blood tests [erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA), Rheumatoid Factor (RF)], imaging, and family history of autoimmune or autoinflammatory disease. Additional testing may be necessary such as urine tests, joint aspirations, and eye exams.
In an effort to ensure this page has the most accurate and up-to-date information, this page is currently awaiting medical review. Some information is subject to change.
Page Last Updated: 9/1/2023
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