Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

The importance of small joint involvement in oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis

OBJECTIVES

Our study aimed to evaluate the relationship of small joint involvement with demographic, clinical, and laboratory findings and to determine its possible effects on prognosis.

METHODS

This retrospective observational study was conducted in patients diagnosed with oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (oJIA) in the paediatric rheumatology department of Ankara City Hospital between April 2009 and September 2022. The relationship between small joint involvement and demographic, clinical, and laboratory findings and prognosis was investigated by statistical methods with the data recorded from the medical records of oJIA patients.

RESULTS

Of the 198 patients diagnosed with oJIA, small joint involvement was observed in a total of 20 (10%) patients, 11 (5.5%) at the time of diagnosis, and 9 (4.5%) during the follow-up period. The frequency of small joint involvement in extended oJIA was significantly higher than in persistent oJIA (P = .001). Patients with small joint involvement had significantly higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein values at admission (P = .047, P = .038) and Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score at 3, 6, and 12 months (P = .001, P = .001, P = .018). The need for conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs was significantly higher in patients with small joint involvement (P = .001, P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

oJIA patients with small joint involvement may have higher acute phase reactants at diagnosis, a more extended course and active disease in follow-up, and the need for treatment escalation.

Predictors of relapse in patients with oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in remission off medication

The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictors of relapse in patients with oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (oJIA) who achieved clinical remission off medication. This retrospective observational study was conducted between June 2009 and July 2022 in 126 patients with oJIA who achieved remission off medication. The relationships between relapse status and demographic, clinical and laboratory findings, and treatment details were evaluated using electronic medical records. Of the 126 oJIA patients who achieved remission off medication, 85 (67.5%) were female. Relapse occurred in 31 patients (24.6%) with remission off medication after a median of 18 months (IQR 7-26). No statistically significant relationship was found between gender, age at diagnosis, oJIA subtype, number of joints, ANA, ESR, CRP level, initial Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score and relapse in oJIA patients who achieved remission off medication (p = 0.66, p = 0.25, p = 1, p = 0.54, p = 0.29, p = 0.59, p = 0.95 and p = 0.52, respectively). There was a statistically significant relationship between the number of intraarticular corticosteroid injections (IACIs) and relapse (p = 0.01). Patients who underwent IACI 2-3 times had more relapses than those who never underwent IACI and those who underwent IACI only once (p = 0.01, p = 0.02, respectively). A relationship was found between the length of follow-up and relapse in patients with oJIA who achieved remission off medication (p = 0.035).    Conclusion: In oJIA patients who achieve remission off medication, the probability of relapse increases in patients who need ≥ 2 IACI during the period until remission. The length of follow-up period is associated with the probability of relapse. What is Known: • Approximately one-fourth of oJIA patients who are in remission off medication have relapse. • There is a need for markers that can predict the risk of relapse in oJIA patients who achieve remission on or off medication. What is New: • The possibility of relapse should be considered in patients with oJIA who need ≥ 2 IACIs until achieving remission off medication. • The relapse rate may increase as the follow-up period prolongs in patients who achieve remission off medication.

Psychological Effects and Quality of Life in Parents and Children with Jia-Associated Uveitis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a chronic inflammatory disease common in children and young adults. Uveitis is the most frequent serious extra-articular JIA manifestation and can lead to severe ocular complications, vision loss, and permanent blindness. This study aims to evaluate the psychological condition and the quality of life of children affected by JIA associated with uveitis (JIA-U) and the repercussion of this condition on parents. Thirty children and adolescents with active uveitis (Uveitis group) and comorbid joint symptoms of JIA were referred to the Unit of Ophthalmology, Giovanni XXIII Hospital of Bari, and 30 age-matched healthy controls (Healthy group) were enrolled with their parents. Four questionnaires were administered: Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL), Parent Stress Index in Short Form (PSI), Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), and Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS). The data were collected from February 2021 to December 2021. No significant differences between the two groups in CBCL, PSI, or CISS tests were shown (p > 0.05). Conversely, significant differences between the two groups were observed in the PedsQL (p < 0.05). This study shows how several ocular complications, recurrent eye examinations, and the rigor of long-term treatment may negatively influence health-related quality of life in children with JIA-U.

Criteria Associated with Treatment Decisions in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis with a Focus on Ultrasonography: Results from the JIRECHO Cohort

BACKGROUND

The treatment of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) to prevent disability is a major challenge in paediatric rheumatology. The presence of synovitis, which is difficult to detect in children, is associated with structural damage. Musculoskeletal ultrasonography (MSUS) can be used in patients with JIA to reveal subclinical synovitis.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim was to determine whether the use of MSUS was associated with therapeutic modification in patients with JIA. The secondary aim was to identify other factors associated with therapeutic decisions.

METHODS

We conducted an observational study based on the JIRECHO multi-centre cohort, which was developed to provide a systematic MSUS follow-up for patients with JIA. Follow-up occurred every 6 months and included clinical and MSUS examinations. We included children who underwent MSUS of the elbows, wrists, second metacarpophalangeal joints, knees and ankles, which was performed by expert sonographers. Clinical and biological data, disease activity scores and information on therapeutics were collected.

RESULTS

A total of 185 visits concerning 112 patients were recorded. Three groups were defined according to the therapeutic decision: escalation (22%, n = 40), de-escalation (14%, n = 26) or stable (64%, n = 119). In the "therapeutic escalation" group: the presence of ultrasonographic synovitis in B-mode and the presence of grade 2 or 3 synovitis in B-mode were not significantly more frequent than in the "stable therapeutic or de-escalation" group (80% versus 65%, p = 0.06; 33% versus 19%, p = 0.06), and the patient's and physician's visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, the clinical JADAS and the C-reactive protein level were significantly higher, but only physician's VAS score remained in the model of logistic regression. In the "therapeutic de-escalation" group: there was no difference in the presence of US synovitis compared with the "stable therapeutic or escalation" group (62% versus 69%, p = 0.48).

CONCLUSION

Even though US synovitis tended to be more frequent in patients with therapeutic escalation, the study did not show that the presence of synovitis in MSUS was statistically associated with therapeutic modifications in patients with JIA. Treatment remained stable despite the presence of US synovitis.

Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency in Patients Treated for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Potential Role of Methotrexate: A Preliminary Study

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is reported in rheumatological diseases in adults. The aim was to evaluate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and to investigate potential correlations between vitamin D status and clinical factors, laboratory traits, and medical treatment, including methotrexate (MTX) and glucocorticoids (GCs). Methods: In 189 patients aged 3−17.7 years, with JIA in the stable stage of the disease, anthropometry, clinical status, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], calcium (Ca), phosphate (PO4), total alkaline phosphatase (ALP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were assessed. Results: Median 25(OH)D level was 15.00 ng/mL, interquartile range (IQR) 12.00 ng/mL. Vitamin D deficiency was found in 67.2% and was independent of sex, disease manifestation, and CRP, ESR, ALP, or PO4 levels. Higher doses of MTX corresponded with lower 25(OH)D levels using both univariate and multivariate models (p < 0.05). No such trend was found for GCs treatment. Serum Ca was lower in patients treated with GCs (p = 0.004), MTX (p = 0.03), and combined GCs/MTX (p = 0.034). Conclusions: JIA patients are vitamin D depleted independently of disease activity or inflammatory markers. MTX therapy may be an iatrogenic factor leading to inadequate 25(OH)D levels. Vitamin D supplementation should be considered in all children with JIA, particularly those receiving long-term MTX therapy.

Vitamin D Status Among Children With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Multicenter Prospective, Non-randomized, Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by destructive and inflammatory damage to the joints. The aim in this study was to compare vitamin D levels between children and adolescents, 1-18 years of age, with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and a health control group of peers. We considered effects of endogenous, exogenous, and genetic factors on measured differences in vitamin D levels among children with JIA.

METHODS

Our findings are based on a study sample of 150 patients with various variants of JIA and 277 healthy children. The blood level of vitamin D was assessed by calcidiol level. The following factors were included in our analysis: age and sex; level of insolation in three regions of country (center, south, north); assessment of dietary intake of vitamin D; effect of prophylactic doses of cholecalciferol; a relationship between the TaqI, FokI, and BsmI polymorphisms of the VDR gene and serum 25(OH)D concentration.

RESULTS

We identified a high frequency of low vitamin D among children with JIA, prevalence of 66%, with the medial level of vitamin D being within the range of "insufficient" vitamin D. We also show that the dietary intake of vitamin D by children with JIA is well below expected norms, and that prophylactic doses of vitamin D supplementation (cholecalciferol) at a dose of 500-1,000 IU/day and 1,500-2,000 IU/day do not meet the vitamin D needs of children with JIA. Of importance, we show that vitamin D levels among children with JIA are not affected by clinical therapies to manage the disease nor by the present of VDR genetic variants.

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic administration of cholecalciferol and season of year play a determining role in the development of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency.

Recent advances in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis has an estimated prevalence of 10-20% in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, making it the most common cause of chronic anterior uveitis in children. Prompt treatment is important to prevent development of ocular complications and permanent vision loss. In this review, we will discuss the use of immunosuppression in treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis. This will include the use of conventional immunosuppressants, such as methotrexate, biologic anti-tumor necrosis factor agents, such as adalimumab, as well as other anti-tumor necrosis factor agents, including infliximab and golimumab. In addition, we will discuss medications currently in clinical trials or under consideration for juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis, including interleukin-6 inhibitors (tocilizumab) and Janus kinase inhibitors (tofacitinib, baricitinib).

The quality of life in Chinese juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients: psychometric properties of the pediatric quality of life inventor generic core scales and rheumatology module

BACKGROUND

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) may seriously affects patients' quality of life (QoL), but it was rarely focused and studied in China, so we explore JIA children's QoL using Chinese version of the PedsQL4.0 Generic Core and PedsQL3.0 Rheumatology Module scale, and analyzed the psychometric properties of these two Scales among Chinese JIA children.

METHODS

We recruited 180 JIA patients from Children's Hospital Affiliated to Capital Institute of Pediatrics and Hebei Yanda Hospital from July 2018 to August 2019. The questionnaires include information related on JIA, PedsQL4.0 generic core and PedsQL3.0 Rheumatology Module scales. According to the disease type, onset age of and course of JIA, we divided them into different groups, then compared the QoL status among different groups. Moreover, we analyzed the reliability and validity of these two scales in these 180 JIA children.

RESULTS

The mean score of PedsQL4.0 generic core scale on these 180 patients was 82.85 ± 14.82, for these in active period was 72.05 ± 15.29, in remission period was 89.77 ± 9.23; the QoL score of systemic, polyarticular and oligoarticular JIA patients were 77.05 ± 19.11, 84.33 ± 12.46 and 87.12 ± 10.23. The mean score of PedsQL3.0 Rheumatology Module scale on 180 patients was 91.22 ± 9.45, for these in active period was 84.70 ± 11.37, in remission period was 95.43 ± 4.48; the QoL score of systemic, polyarticular and oligoarticular JIA patients were 89.41 ± 11.54, 89.38 ± 10.08 and 93.71 ± 6.92. In the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core scale, the α coefficients of total scale and almost every dimension are all greater than 0.8 except for the school activity dimension of 0.589; the correlation coefficients of 22 items' scores (total 23 items) with the scores of dimensions they belong to are greater than 0.5 (maximum value is 0.864), and the other one is 0.406. In PedsQL3.0 Rheumatology Module scale, except for the treatment and worry dimensions of 0.652 and 0.635, the α coefficients of other dimensions and the total scale are all greater than 0.7; the correlation coefficients of all items' score were greater than 0.5 (the maximum is 0.933, the minimum is 0.515).

CONCLUSIONS

The QoL of Chinese JIA children is worse than their healthy peers, these in active period and diagnosed as systemic type were undergoing worst quality of life. The reliability and validity of PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core and PedsQL3.0 Rheumatology Module scale in Chinese JIA children are satisfactory, and can be used in clinical and scientific researches.

Prediction of inactive disease and relapse in oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to describe clinical features of patients with oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) who achieved inactive disease at 3rd month and also to determine the predictors of relapse and extended course.

METHODS

In the cohort study, 88 patients with oligoarticular JIA were retrospectively analyzed. The demographic data, clinical features, medications, relapse rates were recorded. Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score (JADAS) and American College of Rheumatology Pediatric criteria were used to measure disease activity and treatment response at 3, 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine (67%) patients were females and the mean age at diagnosis was 7.9 ± 4.3 years. The odds of achieving inactive disease (JADAS ≤1) at 3rd month were increased by a lower JADAS27 score at admission. Forty-one (48.8%) of 84 patients relapsed. Ankle involvement at onset, high JADAS27 score at admission, increased ESR at admission and presence of synovial hypertrophy in imaging were risk factors for occurrence of relapse.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that a significant proportion of oligoarticular JIA patients relapse after inactive period. JADAS is a useful tool to guide the treatment decisions of patients who may be at risk of high disease activity and relapse.

Study of vitamin D status and vitamin D receptor polymorphisms in a cohort of Italian patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic arthritis of children and adolescents. Autoimmune mechanisms are suspected to have a central role in its development. Vitamin D is an immuno-modulator in a variety of conditions, including autoimmune diseases. Low levels of vitamin D have commonly been found in JIA patients, but the influence of this hormone insufficiency in JIA pathogenesis is still unclear. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) mediates a great majority of vitamin D biological activities; specific polymorphisms of the VDR gene have been associated with different biologic responses to vitamin D. In this study, we analysed clinical characteristics of a cohort of 103 Italian JIA patients. The distribution of VDR polymorphisms in affected patients versus healthy controls was evaluated, as well as if and how these polymorphic variants associate with different disease presentations (active disease vs non-active disease), different JIA subtypes, serum levels of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D and parathyroid hormone (PTH), and lumbar spine Z-score values (osteopenia vs normal bone mineral density). A great majority of our JIA patients (84.5%) showed a suboptimal vitamin D status, in many cases (84.1%) not solved by vitamin D supplementation. Vitamin D status resulted to be independent of VDR genotypes. ApaI genotypes showed a highly significant different distribution between JIA patients and unaffected controls, with both the TT genotype and the T allele significantly more frequent in patient group.

Biologics in juvenile idiopathic arthritis-main advantages and major challenges: A narrative review

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatic disease in childhood. The disease is divided in different subtypes based on main clinical features and disease course. Emergence of biological agents targeting specific pro-inflammatory cytokines responsible for the disease pathogenesis represents the revolution in the JIA treatment. Discovery and widespread usage of biological agents have led to significant improvement in JIA patients’ treatment, with evidently increased functionality and decreased disease sequel. Increased risk of infections remains the main discussion topic for years. Despite the slightly increased frequency of upper respiratory tract infections reported in some studies, the general safety of drugs is acceptable with rare reports of severe adverse effects (SAEs). Tuberculosis (TBC) represents the important threat in regions with increased TBC prevalence. Therefore, routine screening for TBC should not be neglected when prescribing and during the follow-up of biological treatment. Malignancy represents a hypothetical complication that sometimes causes hesitations for physicians and patients in its prescription and usage. On the other hand, current reports from the literature do not support the increased risk for malignancy among JIA patients treated with biological agents. A multidisciplinary approach including a pediatric rheumatologist and an infectious disease specialist is mandatory in the follow- up of JIA patients. Although the efficacy and safety of biological agents have been proven in different studies, there is still a need for long-term, multicentric evaluation providing relevant data.

Image guided sacroiliac joint corticosteroid injections in children: an 18-year single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Sacroiliitis is commonly seen in enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA), a subtype of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Sacroiliitis is characterized by the inflammation of the sacroiliac (SI) joints (+/- adjacent tissues). The treatment options include systemic therapy with or without corticosteroid SI joint injections. Image guided SI joint injections are frequently requested in pediatric patients with sacroiliitis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of SI joint injections in children with sacroiliitis.

METHODS

A retrospective study of patients referred to Interventional Radiology (IR) for SI joint corticosteroid injections (2000-2018). Clinical information was collected from Electronic Patient Charts and procedural details from PACS. Efficacy was determined clinically, by MRI, or both when available.

RESULTS

50 patients (13.8 years; M:F = 35:15) underwent image-guided SI joint corticosteroid injections. Most common indications were JIA (84%) and inflammatory bowel disease (14%). 80% had bilateral injections. 80% were performed under general anesthesia and 20% under sedation. The corticosteroid of choice was triamcinolone hexacetonide in 98% of patients. Needle guidance and confirmation was performed using CT and fluoroscopy (54%), Cone Beam CT (CBCT, 46%), with initial ultrasound assistance in 34%. All procedures were technically successful without any complications. 32/50 patients had long-term follow-up (2 years); 21/32 (66%) had clinical improvement within 3-months. Of 15 patients who had both pre- and post-procedure MRIs, 93% showed short-term improvement. At 2 years, 6% of patients were in remission, 44% continued the same treatment and 47% escalated treatment.

CONCLUSION

Image-guided SI joint injections are safe and technically feasible in children. Imaging modalities for guidance have evolved, with CBCT being the current first choice. Most patients showed short-term clinical and imaging improvement, requiring long-term maintenance or escalation of medical treatment.

Features distinguishing juvenile idiopathic arthritis among children with musculoskeletal complaints

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints in children vary, ranging from benign, self-limited conditions to serious disorders. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatic disease, initially presenting with MSK complaints. Delayed diagnosis and appropriate treatment have an enormous impact on the long-term outcomes and the level of disability. This study aimed to identify the features distinguishing JIA among children presenting with MSK complaints and to describe the spectrum of diseases at a large, single, tertiary center.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed of patients evaluated by pediatric rheumatology consultation at the Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand, from July 2011 to June 2015.

RESULTS

Of 531 patients, 285 (53.6%) had at least one MSK complaint. The mean age of the patients was 9.1 ± 4.1 years. Joint pain was the most common MSK complaint (86.3%), followed by limping (33%) and refusal to walk (19.6%). Joint swelling and limited range of motion were found in 146 (51.2%) and 115 (40.4%) patients, respectively. Seventy-three (25.6%) patients were diagnosed as JIA. The other common diagnoses included Henoch-Schönlein purpura (16.1%), reactive arthritis (14.2%), and systemic lupus erythematosus (13.7%). Morning stiffness  ≥ 15 minutes [odds ratio (OR) 8.217 (3.404-19.833)]; joint swelling on MSK examination [OR 3.505 (1.754-7.004)]; a duration of MSK complaints of more than 6 weeks [OR 2.071 (1.120-3.829)]; and limping [OR 1.973 (1.048-3.712)] were significantly associated with the ultimate diagnosis of JIA.

CONCLUSIONS

Morning stiffness ≥ 15 minutes is a strong predictor of JIA. Comprehensive history taking and an MSK examination will provide clues for making the ultimate diagnosis for children with MSK complaints.

Bilateral Destructive Hip Disease from Untreated Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

We report a novel case of a pediatric patient with bilateral hip destruction from untreated Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). She was presented at the age of 9 with hip pain associated with bilateral acetabular dysplasia and a dislocated left femoral head. Only 1.5 years later, the patient developed complete destruction of the left femoral head and dislocated right femoral head. The authors have not identified literature describing a similar case report of bilateral femoral head destruction resulting from Persistent Oligoarticular JIA. Pediatric patients presenting with rapidly evolving destructive process should be evaluated for rheumatologic, infectious, and spinal etiologies.

A 6-month, multicenter, open-label study of fixed dose naproxen/esomeprazole in adolescent patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

BACKGROUND

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an inflammatory arthritis of unknown etiology, which lasts for greater than 6 weeks with onset before 16 years of age. JIA is the most common chronic rheumatic disease in children. NSAIDs have been the mainstay of initial management with naproxen (NAP) being commonly used, but they may cause serious side effects such as gastric ulcers which can be reduced by concomitant administration of proton pump inhibitors, such as esomeprazole (ESO).

METHODS

Primary objective was to evaluate the safety and tolerability of 3 fixed doses of NAP/ESO in JIA patients aged 12 to 16 years. Forty-six children and adolescents with JIA by International League of Associations for Rheumatology criteria, mean age of 13.6 years, from 18 US sites were prospectively enrolled over 2 years and followed for up to 6 months. Doses of the NAP/ESO fixed combination were based on baseline weight. The exploratory efficacy outcome was assessed with the ACR Pediatric-30, - 50, - 70, - 90 Response and the Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ) discomfort and functional scores at months 1, 3, and 6 as change from baseline. Occurrence and causality were assessed for treatment emergent AEs (TEAEs) and discontinuations were monitored monthly.

RESULTS

Forty-six patients received at least 1 dose of naproxen/esomeprazole and 36 completed the trial. Thirty-seven (80.4%) had at least 1 treatment emergent adverse event (TEAE) and, with the exception of 2 events in one patient, all of the TEAEs were mild or moderate. Frequent TEAEs (≥5% of patients) were upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal related. Eleven (23.9%) had at least 1 TEAE considered to be related to study drug. Four patients (8.7%) discontinued due to a TEAE with one of these being the only serious AE reported, acute hepatitis. Mean number of active joints at baseline was 3.1. Improvement in JIA signs and symptoms occurred at most assessments and by month 6, the percentage of patients with an ACR Pediatric-30, - 50, - 70, and - 90 Response was 47.1, 38.2, 32.4, and 17.6%, respectively. The percent of patients achieving ACR Pediatric response increased over time. CHAQ discomfort improved at each assessment and functional scores improved at all assessments for 'Arising, Walking, and Activities' with several improved for 'Dressing and Grooming, Eating, Hygiene, and Grip'. There was no indication of a dose-related efficacy effect.

CONCLUSION

NAP/ESO was well tolerated in JIA patients aged 12 to 16 years with high levels of response to ACR criteria. No new safety signals were identified for the well-characterized components of this fixed dosed JIA treatment, which was developed to reduce the risk of gastric ulcers.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01544114 . Registered February 21, 2012.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common chronic rheumatic disease of unknown aetiology in childhood and predominantly presents with peripheral arthritis. The disease is divided into several subgroups, according to demographic characteristics, clinical features, treatment modalities and disease prognosis. Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which is one of the most frequent disease subtypes, is characterized by recurrent fever and rash. Oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, common among young female patients, is usually accompanied by anti-nuclear antibodie positivity and anterior uveitis. Seropositive polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, an analogue of adult rheumatoid arthritis, is seen in less than 10% of paediatric patients. Seronegative polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, an entity more specific for childhood, appears with widespread large- and small-joint involvement. Enthesitis-related arthritis is a separate disease subtype, characterized by enthesitis and asymmetric lower-extremity arthritis. This disease subtype represents the childhood form of adult spondyloarthropathies, with human leukocyte antigen-B27 positivity and uveitis but commonly without axial skeleton involvement. Juvenile psoriatic arthritis is characterized by a psoriatic rash, accompanied by arthritis, nail pitting and dactylitis. Disease complications can vary from growth retardation and osteoporosis secondary to treatment and disease activity, to life-threatening macrophage activation syndrome with multi-organ insufficiency. With the advent of new therapeutics over the past 15 years, there has been a marked improvement in juvenile idiopathic arthritis treatment and long-term outcome, without any sequelae. The treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients involves teamwork, including an experienced paediatric rheumatologist, an ophthalmologist, an orthopaedist, a paediatric psychiatrist and a physiotherapist. The primary goals of treatment are to eliminate active disease, to normalize joint function, to preserve normal growth and to prevent long-term joint damage. Timely and aggressive treatment is important to provide early disease control. The first-line treatment includes disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (methotrexate, sulphasalazine, leflunomide) in combination with corticosteroids, used in different dosages and routes (oral, intravenous, intra-articular). Intra-articular application of steroids seems to be an effective treatment modality, especially in monoarthritis. Biological agents should be added in the treatment of unresponsive patients. Anti-tumour necrosis factor agents (etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab), anti-interleukin-1 agents (anakinra, canakinumab), anti- interleukin-6 agents (tocilizumab) and T-cell regulatory agents (abatacept) have been shown to be safe and effective in childhood patients. Recent studies reported sustained reduction in joint damage with even complete clinical improvement in paediatric patients, compared to previous data.

Assessment of the outcome of ophthalmological screening for uveitis in a cohort of Swedish children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

PURPOSE

To describe clinical features, risk factors and complications in a cohort of Swedish children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) screened for uveitis between 2002 and 2011.

METHODS

Medical records of 299 children with JIA (93 male, 206 female; median age 5.0 years at diagnosis) were retrospectively scrutinized focusing on subtype of JIA, onset of arthritis/uveitis, presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and ophthalmological status.

RESULTS

Uveitis was found in 32 (11%) children, 78% bilaterally affected. The median age of arthritis onset in children who developed uveitis was 2.5 years (range 1-10) versus 5.0 years (range 1-15) in those who did not. Sex ratio was 3.5:1 (girl:boy). The most prevalent JIA subtype was oligoarthritis (75%). All but one child with uveitis was found to be ANA (+). The median interval between diagnosis of arthritis and uveitis was 12 months. Only one child developed uveitis between the fourth and fifth years after arthritis onset. Ocular complications were recorded in 45.6% (26/57 affected eyes) at last follow-up. On univariate analysis, both young age at arthritis onset and ANA positivity were possible predictors for developing uveitis, but on multivariate analysis, the latter was the most important predictor (HR 16.25, 95%; CI 2.19-120.44; p = 0.006, Cox regression analysis).

CONCLUSION

Almost all of the children developing JIA-associated uveitis did so within 4 years after arthritis onset, a fact that accentuates the importance of early initiation of ophthalmological screening and more frequent regular follow-ups during the first 4 years. The most important predictor for developing uveitis was ANA positivity.

Ultrasound-guided steroid tendon sheath injections in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a 10-year single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The aims of this study were to: (a) Identify tendon sheaths most commonly treated with steroid injections in a pediatric patient population with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA); (b) Describe technical aspects of the procedure; (c) Characterize sonographic appearance of tenosynovitis in JIA; (d) Assess agreement between clinical request and sites injected.

METHODS

This was a 10 year single-center retrospective study (May 2006-April 2016) of patients with JIA referred by Rheumatology for ultrasound-guided tendon sheath injections. Patient demographics, clinical referral information, sonographic appearance of the tendon sheaths and technical aspects of the procedure were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 308 procedures of 244 patients (75% female, mean age 9.6 years) who underwent a total of 926 tendon sheath injections. Ankle tendons were most commonly injected (84.9%), specifically the tendon sheaths of tibialis posterior (22.3%), peroneus longus (20%) and brevis (19.7%). The majority of treated sites (91.9%) showed peritendinous fluid and sheath thickening on ultrasound. There were 2 minor intra-procedure complications without sequelae. A good agreement between clinical request and sites injected was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-guided tendon sheath injections with steroids are used frequently to treat patients with JIA. It is a safe intervention with a high technical success rate. The ankle region, specifically the medial compartment, is the site most commonly injected in this group of patients. The most common sonographic finding is peritendinous fluid and sheath thickening. These findings might assist clinicians and radiologists to characterize and more effectively manage tenosynovitis in patients with JIA.

Quantifying the Effect of Temporomandibular Joint Intra-Articular Steroid Injection on Synovial Enhancement in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

PURPOSE

To quantify the effect of intra-articular steroid injections (IASIs) on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) synovitis in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) using gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study was a retrospective study of children with JIA who had undergone TMJ IASIs at Boston Children's Hospital. The patients were included if they had undergone contrast-enhanced MRI both before and after IASI and if the pre-IASI MRI had demonstrated synovitis (enhancement ratio [ER] >1.55). Patients with TMJ pathology or pain unrelated to JIA or a history of facial trauma were excluded. The predictor variables were age, gender, JIA subtype, exposure to medications for arthritis, and a family history of autoimmune disease. The primary outcome variable was the ER. Additional outcome variables included patient-reported pain and the maximal incisal opening (MIO).

RESULTS

Twenty-nine subjects (83% female) with a total of 50 injected TMJs were included. The average age at JIA diagnosis and at IASI was 6.8 ± 1.7 years and 12.1 ± 1.9 years, respectively. The mean follow-up period was 22.9 ± 4.3 months (range 5 to 48). The ER decreased in all injected joints, with a mean reduction of 1.05 ± 1.01 (P < .001). The post-IASI ER was less than the normal threshold (1.55) in 18% of the injected TMJs. IASI was associated with an elimination of pain in 89% of the subjects (P < .001) and in augmentation of the MIO by 5.8 ± 2.6 mm (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In children with JIA and TMJ synovitis, TMJ IASI was associated with a reduction in synovial enhancement, decreased pain, and an increased MIO. Only 18% of injected joints, however, experienced complete resolution of synovitis. These results support the use of IASI in the management of the pain and dysfunction associated with TMJ synovitis. Further study is required to determine the efficacy of IASI in limiting inflammation and future joint destruction.

Histopathological features of gastrointestinal mucosal biopsies in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

BACKGROUND

The association between inflammatory bowel disease and joint involvement is well established. There is a paucity of data describing histopathological features of the gut in relation to juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 33 (21 male) children aged 3-16 y with JIA (11 with oligoarthritis, 5 with polyarthritis, 8 with systemic onset arthritis, 8 with enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA), and 1 with psoriatic arthritis) with significant gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms who underwent upper and/or lower endoscopy. The histopathological findings were reviewed in addition to presence of autoantibodies and concomitant treatment.

RESULTS

The most common GI indications for endoscopy were persistent abdominal pain (14/33 (42%)) and diarrhea (10/33 (30%)). Of the 33 children, 28 (85%) had gut mucosal inflammation, mostly affecting the colon (80%). Active inflammation of the gut was found in 5 of 28 (17%) children, and 15 of 28 (53%) children showed mild nonspecific inflammation. Eight patients (27%) had predominantly an eosinophilic infiltrate. Twenty-six patients had previously received treatment for JIA. There was a negative association with the use of immunomodulators and the presence of eosinophil inflammation.

CONCLUSION

The majority of children with JIA and GI symptoms have histological evidence of mild nonspecific inflammation, but some having active colitis and prominent eosinophil infiltrate.

Epidemiology of juvenile idiopathic arthritis in Oman

BACKGROUND

There is a worldwide variation in the prevalence and subtype distribution of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) which may be affected by ethnicity and genetic factors. The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence, subtype distribution and characteristic features of JIA among Omani children and to compare our results with other ethnic populations worldwide.

METHODS

A population-based, multicenter study among pediatric rheumatology clinics in the Sultanate over a 10 year period between 2004-2013. The diagnosis of JIA and identification of JIA subtypes was based on the ILAR 2004 revised criteria. The hospital charts of these patients were retrospectively reviewed and information was collected. All patients were screened for uveitis by an ophthalmologist using slit lamp examination during regular follow up visits.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 107 cases of JIA in Oman over the study period. Among the 107 patients, 71 % (n = 77) were girls with a female:male ratio of 2.5:1. The mean age of disease onset was 6.85 ± 3.86 years (range 1-13years) while the mean disease duration of 4.8 ± 2.9 years (range 1-11 years). The incidence of JIA was estimated at 2/100,000 with a prevalence of JIA of 20/100,000. The prevalence of JIA in girls was 28/100,000 while the prevalence in boys was 12/100,000. According to disease distribution, the most frequent subtype was polyarticular JIA rheumatoid factor negative (39.2 %) followed by oligoarthritis (31.8 %), systemic (17.8 %), polyarticular JIA rheumatoid factor positive (7.5 %). The unique feature of the Omani cohort is the lack of occurrence of uveitis.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first epidemiological JIA study conducted in Oman that highlights unique geographical disease phenotype. Compared to Western counties, there were higher frequency of polyarticular disease and lack of occurrence of uveitis. Further studies are needed to evaluate the implications of genetic, ethnic and environmental differences of disease expression.

Technical tips to perform safe and effective ultrasound guided steroid joint injections in children

BACKGROUND

The aim of this article is to describe the technique used to perform ultrasound guided steroid joint injections in children in a group of joints that can be injected using ultrasound as the only image guidance modality.

FINDINGS

The technique is described and didactic figures are provided to illustrate key technical concepts.

CONCLUSION

It is very important to be familiar with the sonographic appearance of the pediatric joints and the developing bone when performing ultrasound-guided joint injections in children.

Assessment and management of pain in juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic rheumatic disease in childhood. Persistent pain is the most common and distressing symptom of JIA, and pain in childhood arthritis is multifactorial. Children and adolescents with persistent pain due to JIA experience significantly more problems with physical, emotional, social, and school functioning than healthy individuals. Assessment of pain at each office visit is the cornerstone of effective pain management and should include an evaluation of pain intensity, interference, and coping. Following the biopsychosocial model of pain management, a multi-modal approach is recommended for pain control in children with arthritis. Pharmacologic strategies for the treatment of pain in JIA include aggressive treatment of the underlying disease as well as the use of acetaminophen and systemic and topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for persistent mild pain. Opioids can be considered in the case of moderate to severe persistent pain. Physical therapies and psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy are also key components of pain management in JIA.

Impact of a telenursing service on satisfaction and health outcomes of children with inflammatory rheumatic diseases and their families: a crossover randomized trial study protocol

BACKGROUND

Pediatric rheumatic diseases have a significant impact on children's quality of life and family functioning. Disease control and management of the symptoms are important to minimize disability and pain. Specialist clinical nurses play a key role in supporting medical teams, recognizing poor disease control and the need for treatment changes, providing a resource to patients on treatment options and access to additional support and advice, and identifying best practices to achieve optimal outcomes for patients and their families. This highlights the importance of investigating follow-up telenursing (TN) consultations with experienced, specialist clinical nurses in rheumatology to provide this support to children and their families.

METHODS/DESIGN

This randomized crossover, experimental longitudinal study will compare the effects of standard care against a novel telenursing consultation on children's and family outcomes. It will examine children below 16 years old, recently diagnosed with inflammatory rheumatic diseases, who attend the pediatric rheumatology outpatient clinic of a tertiary referral hospital in western Switzerland, and one of their parents. The telenursing consultation, at least once a month, by a qualified, experienced, specialist nurse in pediatric rheumatology will consist of providing affective support, health information, and aid to decision-making. Cox's Interaction Model of Client Health Behavior serves as the theoretical framework for this study. The primary outcome measure is satisfaction and this will be assessed using mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative data). Secondary outcome measures include disease activity, quality of life, adherence to treatment, use of the telenursing service, and cost. We plan to enroll 56 children.

DISCUSSION

The telenursing consultation is designed to support parents and children/adolescents during the course of the disease with regular follow-up. This project is novel because it is based on a theoretical standardized intervention, yet it allows for individualized care. We expect this trial to confirm the importance of support by a clinical specialist nurse in improving outcomes for children and adolescents with inflammatory rheumatisms.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrial.gov identifier: NCT01511341 (December 1st, 2012).

Vitamin D concentrations and disease activity in Moroccan children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Background

In addition to its important metabolic activities, vitamin D also contributes to the regulation of the immune system. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between hypovitaminosis D and disease activity in Moroccan children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, forty children with JIA were included, all having been diagnosed according to the classification criteria of International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR). The children underwent anthropometric assessment and clinical evaluation. Disease activity was measured using the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) for polyarticular and oligoarticular JIA and the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) for enthesitis-related arthritis. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin [25(OH)D] D₂ and D₃ were measured using radioimmunoassay (RIA). Hypovitaminosis D was defined as serum 25(OH)D <30 ng/ml.

Results

The average age of participants was 11 years ± 4.23. Hypovitaminosis D was observed in 75% of patients. In univariate analyses, 25(OH)D levels were negatively associated with DAS28 for polyarticular and oligoarticular JIA. No significant relationship was found between 25(OH)D levels and BASDAI for juvenile spondylarthropathy. In multivariate linear regression analysis, no association persisted between 25(OH)D levels and DAS28.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that serum levels of vitamin D were low in Moroccan children with JIA disease. Future studies with a larger population are needed to confirm our results.

A novel human anti-interleukin-1β neutralizing monoclonal antibody showing in vivo efficacy

The pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-1β is a clinical target in many conditions involving dysregulation of the immune system; therapeutics that block IL-1β have been approved to treat diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), neonatal onset multisystem inflammatory diseases, cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes, active systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Here, we report the generation and engineering of a new fully human antibody that binds tightly to IL-1β with a neutralization potency more than 10 times higher than that of the marketed antibody canakinumab. After affinity maturation, the derived antibody shows a>30-fold increased affinity to human IL-1β compared with its parent antibody. This anti-human IL-1β IgG also cross-reacts with mouse and monkey IL-1β, hence facilitating preclinical development. In a number of mouse models, this antibody efficiently reduced or abolished signs of disease associated with IL-1β pathology. Due to its high affinity for the cytokine and its potency both in vitro and in vivo, we propose that this novel fully human anti-IL-1β monoclonal antibody is a promising therapeutic candidate and a potential alternative to the current therapeutic arsenal.

Measurement of bone mineral density by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry in juvenile idiopathic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate bone mineral density using dual X-ray absorptiometry in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) patients and factors affecting it, if any.

METHODS

A cross sectional study was conducted by enrolling thirty five patients of JIA and age and sex matched controls. Bone Mineral Density (BMD) and Z score of whole body, total body less head, lumbar spine and distal radius were obtained and adjusted for age, sex, weight and BMI in both cases and controls. Dietary intake of calcium, vitamin D intake, sunlight exposure, weight bearing physical activity, age of onset, duration of disease, disease activity score and treatment received (prednisolone and methotrexate) were recorded.

RESULTS

BMD was significantly lower among patients as compared to controls. Decreased dietary intake of vitamin D and calcium, decreased weight bearing physical activity and sunlight exposure were the major factors for low BMD. Use of steroid also decreased BMD to some extent, whereas use of methotrexate, disease duration and severity did not have a significant correlation with BMD.

CONCLUSIONS

Apart from disease control, it is important to improve the dietary intake of calcium, vitamin D and encourage more physical activities and exposure to sunlight in JIA patients.

Determinants of health-related quality of life impairment in Egyptian children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Sharkia Governorate

The aim of this study was to identify the possible determinants of impaired health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in Egyptian children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Fifty-eight consecutive patients of JIA aged from 8 to 18 years underwent assessment of socio-economic and demographic characteristics; HRQOL using Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scale, disease activity using the Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score based on 27 joints (JADAS-27), functional ability using the childhood health assessment questionnaire (CHAQ), pain score on visual analog scale and psychological symptoms using the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) score. Multivariate modeling was applied to determine the factors that associated with HRQOL impairment. A total of 55 % of the patients (32 of 58) had impaired HRQOL (<78.6). In multiple regression analyses, high CHAQ scores (OR 6.0, 95 % CI 2.0-17.5, P = 0.001), pain (OR 3.1, 95 % CI 1.9-6.3, P = 0.01), stop going to school (OR 3.9, 95 % CI 2.0-7.3, P = 0.01), low socioeconomic status (OR 2.3, 95 % CI 1.09-4.7, P = 0.04) and high psychological symptoms (OR 4.2, 95 % CI 2.0-12.6, P = 0.001) were determinants for HRQOL impairment. HRQOL impairment is a significant problem in Egyptian children and adolescents with JIA. These findings underscore the critical need for monitoring of HRQOL in these patients. More attention should be given to JIA patients who stop going to school and who has low socioeconomic status.

Oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis among Saudi children

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most frequent chronic inflammatory rheumatic condition in children. We aimed to describe the clinical and serological profile of Saudi patients with oligoarticular JIA.

DESIGN AND SETTINGS

Hospital-based retrospective chart review of all children diagnosed with oligoarticular JIA and followed up at King Abdulaziz University Hospital between 1998 and 2012.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed the medical files of children with oligoarticular JIA and recorded the gender, age at presentation and diagnosis, clinical presentation, laboratory and radiological investigations, treatment administered, and disease complications. Descriptive statistics was performed using SPSS (version 20, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).

RESULTS

We enrolled 37 patients with JIA, of which 24 (64.9%) were girls. The mean age of the patients at presentation was 6.9 years, while the mean age at diagnosis was 7.2 years. A total of 31 patients (83.8%) presented with joint pain, and 36 (97.3%) had a swelling; 19 patients (51.4%) had a high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) at first presentation (mean, 41.8 [25.4] mm/h). ANA was positive in 15 patients (40.5%). The following treatments were administered: naproxen in 37 patients (100%), intra-articular corticosteroids in 12 cases (32.4%), methotrexate in 14 patients (37.8%), and adalimumab in 5 patients (13.5%). During follow-up, the following were documented: limited range of motion (n=15; 40.5%), deformity (n=5.4%), contracture (n=1; 2.7%), leg-length discrepancy (n=9; 24.3%), and anemia (n=7; 18.9%).

CONCLUSION

Oligoarticular JIA is more frequent in females, and it shows a predilection for the knees. Initially, many patients presented with high ESRs, and they were antinuclear antibody positive. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment resulted in a low rate of arthritis and extra-articular manifestations in our cohort.

Clinical patterns of juvenile idiopathic arthritis in Zambia

BACKGROUND

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a heterogeneous group of disorders with different disease manifestations among various populations. There are few reports of JIA among indigenous Africans especially sub-Saharan Africa. We present herein the clinical patterns of JIA encountered at a tertiary hospital in Lusaka, Zambia.

METHOD

Hospital records of patients with a diagnosis of chronic arthritis with onset at the age of 16 years or less presenting to University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia for the periods 1994-98 and 2006-2010 were retrospectively reviewed and reclassified as Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) based on the International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILA R) JIA diagnostic criteria.

RESULTS

In total, 126 patients with chronic arthritis of onset at age 16 years or less were evaluated over these periods at the hospital. Of these, 85 could further be analyzed by ILAR JIA criteria but 7 (8.24%) were HIV seropositive and were assessed separately. The average age at disease onset among the 78 JIA patients was 8.70 years (range: 1-15 years) with average age at first visit to hospital being 11.3 years (range: 2 to 25 years) and with a female to male ratio of 1.2:1. Polyarticular rheumatoid factor negative JIA, at 34.62%, was the most frequent type of chronic arthritis encountered. Oligoarthritis was found in 32.05% while 11.54% and 14.10% were polyarticular rheumatoid factor positive and systemic JIA, respectively. Enthesitis-related arthritis was found in 6.41% and only 1.28% were determined to have psoriatic arthritis among this population.

CONCLUSION

JIA is predominantly a polyarticular rheumatoid factor negative disease in Zambia. Late presentation is an issue with major implications for educational input and resource acquisition. There is need to elucidate the genetics and environmental factors of JIA in this region.

Pain intensity variability and its relationship with quality of life in youths with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To describe variability of pain intensity experienced by youths with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and examine factors related to within-day patterns of pain and the relationship between magnitude of pain variability and quality of life.

METHODS

Pain intensity was self-reported on a visual analog scale (VAS; range 0-100) by 112 youths with JIA ages 8-18 years using electronic diaries 3 times per day for 7 days. Average absolute change in pain (AAC) was computed as a measure of the magnitude of pain variability for each participant. Logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between demographic and disease characteristics and the probability of having high pain variability (AAC ≥10 VAS units). Linear regression was used to examine the relationship between quality of life (assessed by the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory) and AAC. The generalized estimating equations approach was used to examine the relationship between the time of day and pain intensity.

RESULTS

The mean ± SD AAC was 15.6 ± 10.5. The majority of youths (65%) had high AAC (≥10 VAS units). Disease severity predicted high pain variability (β = 0.02, P = 0.044). Higher AAC predicted lower quality of life (adjusted R(2) = 0.194, β = -0.59, P = 0.003). Within-day patterns of pain intensity varied by JIA subtype and sex.

CONCLUSION

This study characterized the pain intensity variability experienced by youths with JIA. Pain variability throughout the day was common, varied by JIA subtype and sex, and was related to quality of life. These findings have implications for future pain research, patient education, and development of clinical interventions for this population.

Impact of juvenile idiopathic arthritis on schooling

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common arthropathy of childhood. Different diseases affect school attendance to varying degrees. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) on Moroccan children’s schooling.

Methods

Thirty-three children with JIA were included in this study, having been previously diagnosed according to the classification criteria of the International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR). Seventy-four healthy children were recruited to serve as controls. Data was obtained for all children on their school level, educational performance, and attendance. The rate of absenteeism due to health complications was noted.

Results

All healthy children were able to attend school (p<0.0001), while 33% of children with JIA were unable to attend school due to their condition. The students with JIA who were able to attend school were absent much more often than controls (63% compared to 20%), with a highly significant p value (p<0.0001). Slightly less than half of the JIA patients (48.5%) failed in their schooling. In univariate analysis, there was an association between absenteeism and tender joints (p=0.02), disease activity score (DAS28) (p=0.007), Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ) (p=0.01), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (p=0.03). In multivariate analysis, the only association persisted between DAS28 and absenteeism.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that the schooling of children with JIA was negatively impacted due to the disorder. More studies, with a larger sample of children, are needed to confirm our findings.

Prevalence and clinical pattern of juvenile idiopathic arthritis in a semi-urban area of Bangladesh

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence and clinical pattern of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in a semi-urban area of Bangladesh.

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional study was carried out among 16 270 children who were selected by using multistage sampling technique from a community of approximately 105 986 children in the Narayanganj district, Bangladesh. Duration of the study was from November 2008 to December 2009. Examinations of the suspected JIA patients were done by the authors in the community as well as in the pediatric rheumatology follow-up clinic at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh.

RESULTS

The estimated point prevalence of JIA was 60.5 per 100 000 children. In total 10 patients were identified among 16 270 children. Girl : boy ratio was 2.3 : 1.0. The subgroup distribution showed oligoarticular JIA in the majority of patients (60%).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of JIA in this study in a semi-urban area of Bangladesh was consistent with established population-based studies in developed countries. Clinical pattern of JIA patients also had similarities with reports from Western countries.

Cross-cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity of the Turkish version of PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module: a quality-of-life measure for patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis in Turkey

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to describe the cultural adaptation, validity, and reliability of a Turkish version of the pediatric quality-of-life inventory (PedsQL) 3.0 Arthritis Module in a population with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

METHODS

A total of 169 patients with JIA and their parents were enrolled in the study. The Turkish version of the childhood health assessment questionnaire (CHAQ) was used to evaluate the validity of related domains in the PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module. Both the PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module and CHAQ were filled out by children over 8 years of age and by the parents of children 2-7 years of age.

RESULTS

Internal reliability was poor to excellent (Cronbach's alpha coefficients 0.56-0.84 for self-reporting and 0.63-0.82 for parent reporting), and interobserver reliability varied from good to excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) 0.79-0.91 for self-reporting and 0.80-0.88 for parent reporting) for the total scores of the PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module. Parent-child concordance for all scores was moderate to excellent (ICC 0.42-0.92). The PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module and CHAQ were highly positively correlated, with coefficients from 0.21 to 0.76, indicating concurrent validity.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated the reliability and validity of quality-of-life measurement using the Turkish version of the PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module in our sociocultural context. The PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module can be utilized as a tool for the evaluation of quality of life in patients with JIA aged 2-18 years.

Children with oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis are at considerable risk for growth retardation

OBJECTIVE

To assess linear growth in patients with persistent oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) treated by intra-articular corticosteroid injections (IACSI).

STUDY DESIGN

Data were obtained from a retrospective review of the charts of 95 patients with persistent oligoarticular JIA (69 females). The mean age at first visit was 4.9 ± 3.4 years, with follow-up of 6 ± 3.7 years. The height SDS for chronologic age (z-score) was correlated with the clinical course of the disease and compared among patients treated by IACSI alone (group I) or by a combination of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) (group II).

RESULTS

Growth retardation was found in 35.8% of patients (Δ z-score <-0.3), including 11.6% with severe growth retardation (Δ z-score <-1.0). Growth retardation was found in a smaller proportion of patients in group I (any growth retardation, 30.6%; severe growth retardation, 6.5%) than in patients in group II (any growth retardation, 44.4%; severe growth retardation, 21.2%; P < .05). Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate values (≥ 40 mm/1sth) indicated a significantly higher risk for growth retardation. All other clinical variables had no association with growth retardation.

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion of patients with persistent oligoarticular JIA have growth retardation and a minority have severe growth retardation. Only elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate values were proven to be a good predictor of risk for growth retardation.

Is it safe to use anti-TNF-α agents for tuberculosis in children suffering with chronic rheumatic disease?

To determine the incidence of latent tuberculosis infection and evaluate the follow-up protocol of the patients diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and other chronic rheumatologic diseases treated with anti-TNF-α treatment (etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab) in Turkey, 144 patients were evaluated retrospectively for the development of tuberculosis. Patients were evaluated every 6 months for tuberculosis using history, physical examination, tuberculin skin test (TST), chest radiographs, and, when required, examination of sputum/early morning gastric aspirates for acid-fast bacilli and chest tomography. A tuberculin skin test over 10 mm induration was interpreted as positive. Patients were diagnosed with JIA (n = 132), enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA; n = 14), juvenile psoriatic arthritis (JPsA; n = 4), chronic idiopathic uveitis (n = 4), and chronic arthritis related to FMF (n = 8). Mean age was 12.25 ± 3.96 years (4.08-19.41 years), mean duration of illness was 5.86 ± 3.77 years (0.66-15 years), and the mean duration of anti-TNF-α treatment was 2.41 ± 1.47 years (0.6-7 years). Anti-TNF-α agents prescribed were etanercept (n = 133), infliximab (n = 30), and adalimumab (n = 6). When unresponsive to one anti-TNF-α therapy, patients were switched to another. There was no history of contact with individuals having tuberculosis. During follow-up, seven patients (4.8%) with positive TST were given INH prophylaxis. One oligoarticular JIA patient (0.69%) diagnosed with secondary uveitis who had been followed for 5 years and had been using infliximab for 2 years, developed a positive Quantiferon-TB test while on INH prophylaxis. He was started on an anti-tuberculosis drug regimen. In conclusion, anti-TNF-α treatment in children with chronic inflammatory disease is safe. Follow-up every 6 months of children on anti-TNF-α treatment with respect to tuberculosis by the pediatric infectious disease department is important to prevent possible complications.

Laryngeal involvement in juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an autoimmune diseases characterized by chronic arthritis and systemic manifestations. Autoimmune diseases can affect the upper airways including the larynx. The aim of this study was to investigate laryngeal involvement in JIA patients and its possible association with JIA disease parameters. Fifty consecutive JIA patients were screened for laryngeal abnormalities using flexible fiberoptic laryngoscope and laryngeal computerized tomography. Laryngeal abnormalities were detected in nine (18%) of our cases, with cricoarytenoiditis in six cases (12%) and a rheumatoid nodule in the pyriform fossa in only one case (2%). Diffuse congestion and edema of the posterior part of the larynx with normal vocal cord mobility was detected in two cases (4%). In our study, laryngeal abnormalities were significantly higher in patients with polyarticular seropositive disease subtype and also were significantly higher in patients with longer disease duration, higher disease activity scores, and those with erosive disease. JIA may affect the larynx. Laryngeal involvement in JIA patients is more in polyarticular seropositive cases. JIA patients have to be subjected to thorough otolaryngologic examination for early diagnosis and prompt management.

Rheumatologic conditions in children who may present to the orthopaedic surgeon

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, formerly known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, is a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by onset of chronic arthritis in childhood. Diagnosis requires onset of disease by age 16 years, persistent arthritis in any joint for ≥ 6 weeks, and exclusion of other conditions that cause arthritis (eg, infection, malignancy, acute rheumatic fever, inflammatory bowel disease). Most patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis present with subacute arthritis with minimal pain and few constitutional symptoms. Laboratory evaluation and imaging are useful to exclude other diagnoses and establish the presence of systemic inflammation. However, these modalities are of limited value in screening for rheumatic diseases, and they may be misleading because of the high rate of false-positive results. Most rheumatologic conditions are diagnosed based on pattern recognition, which is established with a thorough history and physical examination.

Plasma profiles in active systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Biomarkers and biological implications

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA) is a chronic arthritis of children characterized by a combination of arthritis and systemic inflammation. There is usually non-specific laboratory evidence of inflammation at diagnosis but no diagnostic test. Normalized volumes from 89/889 2-D protein spots representing 26 proteins revealed a plasma pattern that distinguishes SJIA flare from quiescence. Highly discriminating spots derived from 15 proteins constitute a robust SJIA flare signature and show specificity for SJIA flare in comparison to active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis or acute febrile illness. We used 7 available ELISA assays, including one to the complex of S100A8/S100A9, to measure levels of 8 of the15 proteins. Validating our DIGE results, this ELISA panel correctly classified independent SJIA flare samples, and distinguished them from acute febrile illness. Notably, data using the panel suggest its ability to improve on erythrocyte sedimentation rate or C-reactive protein or S100A8/S100A9, either alone or in combination in SJIA F/Q discriminations. Our results also support the panel's potential clinical utility as a predictor of incipient flare (within 9 wk) in SJIA subjects with clinically inactive disease. Pathway analyses of the 15 proteins in the SJIA flare versus quiescence signature corroborate growing evidence for a key role for IL-1 at disease flare.

Use and accuracy of US guidance for image-guided injections of the temporomandibular joints in children with arthritis

BACKGROUND

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) has an incidence that ranges from 1 to 22 per 100,000 children worldwide, with involvement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in 17-87% of patients. Intraarticular corticosteroid injections are beneficial in the local treatment of JIA and of other types of arthritis.

OBJECTIVE

To describe and assess the accuracy of an US-guided technique for visualization of needle placement within the TMJ in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2000 and November 2007, 180 TMJ injections were performed during 116 encounters in 83 children with arthritis (71 girls, 12 boys; mean age 12.0 years). Access was obtained under sterile conditions using US guidance (linear 15-MHz or curvilinear 8-MHz transducers) in a coronal plane, and confirmed with CT. To minimize radiation, a limited focused CT protocol was developed.

RESULTS

A bilateral injection was performed in 65 encounters (57%). Twenty-three children had repeat TMJ injections. All injections were performed using US guidance. CT confirmation was used in 127/180 TMJs (70%). In those confirmed with CT, the needle tip was intra-articular in 91% of cases. Triamcinolone hexacetonide was used in 92% of injections and triamcinolone acetonide in 8%. One major complication was encountered (skin atrophy at the injection site).

CONCLUSION

In our experience, TMJ injections using sonographic guidance is a safe, effective and accurate procedure.