幼年特发性关节炎

Like adults, children can develop arthritis, a condition that causes inflammation of the joints. The most common type of chronic, or long-lasting, arthritis that affects children is called juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) . JIA is a broad term that includes several different diseases. Symptoms can vary depending upon the type of JIA and can include joint pain, swelling, warmth, stiffness, and loss of motion. JIA may last a limited time, such as a few months or years, but in some cases it is a lifelong disease that requires treatment into adulthood. JIA is “idiopathic,” meaning that its origins are not understood. While the exact causes of JIA are unknown, it begins when the immune system becomes overactive and creates inflammation. With treatment, most children achieve periods where they do not have symptoms and the disease is not active (remission), and sometimes the disease goes away permanently with no further need for medications. It is important to see a doctor early if your child has swollen or stiff joints because delaying therapy can lead to joint damage, a lesser response to treatment, and other problems.