Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in children (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) can exist for years before a diagnosis is made. Most people believe arthritis only occurs with aging. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in children can be mild or severe, depending on the type, and number of joints affected. The good news is that most cases are mild, allowing children to lead normal lives, but treatment is important. Recognition of symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in children leads to the best outcomes, even with the most involved forms of the disease.
Pauciarticular Rheumatoid Arthritis
Symptoms include involvement of less than four joints that may become swollen or appear deformed. One leg may be shorter than the other because of abnormality with bone growth. There may be no pain. Young girls are most susceptible. Morning stiffness may be present that disappears with activity, making the symptoms less noticeable as rheumatoid arthritis. Inflammation of the eye can occur, again without symptoms. Scarring and blindness can be a serious problem associated with pauciarticular arthritis if the inflammation, known as iridocyclitis, occurs. A physician's exam is needed to detect the inflammation early. Regular eye exams are necessary for any child diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.
Polyarticular Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Another form of rheumatoid arthritis in children, polyarticular, involves four or more joints. More joint involvement causes more disability and the need for more aggressive treatment. The symptoms are the same as milder juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, but more severe. In addition to anti-inflammatory medications, a mainstay of treating rheumatoid arthritis, drugs known as TNF blockers, such as Humira (over age 4) and Remicade might be used.
Still's Disease
Still's disease, also known as systemic onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, is the most serious form of arthritis that affects children. Symptoms include rash, and high fever that comes and goes during the day. Systemic involvement can affect the organs. Treatment is also with anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen. More intense medications may be recommended by your physician, and there are several treatment options that can make life easier for children affected by Still's disease.
Other Types of Arthritis in Children
Other types of arthritis can affect children, but are not categorized as rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment and prognosis differs. Other types of arthritis in children also cause inflammation, but symptoms differ. Other forms of arthritis in children and young adults may be associated with diseases other than rheumatoid arthritis.
Considerations
Children with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can grow and develop normally and accomplish most tasks needed for routine daily activities. The condition can get better over time, but only with proper diagnosis and treatment as symptoms develop. Rheumatoid arthritis in children is very treatable, and affects one child per every thousand, according to the American College of Rheumatology.
