Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

Alternative Names

Treatment

Medicines used to treat this condition may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Corticosteroids
• An antimalaria medicine called hydroxychloroquine, which helps reduce inflammation related to JRA
• Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), including methotrexate
• Biologic drugs, such as such as etanercept and infliximab, which block high levels of inflammatory proteins

Note: Talk to your health care provider before giving aspirin or NSAIDs to children.

Physical therapy and exercise programs may be recommended. Surgery may be needed in some cases, including joint replacement.

Outlook (Prognosis)

JRA is seldom life threatening. Long periods of spontaneous remission are typical. Often, JRA improves or goes into remission at puberty. Approximately 75% of JRA patients eventually enter remission with minimal functional loss and deformity.

For additional information and resources, see arthritis support group.

Possible Complications

• Total joint destruction of the major weight-bearing joints
• Loss of vision or decreased vision
• Chronic spondyloarthropathy (back stiffness)

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you notice symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Also call your health care provider if your symptoms get worse, do not improve with treatment, or if new symptoms develop.