Document Type : original article

Authors

1 1. Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran 2. Clinical Research Development Unit of Akbar Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

2 Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

10.22038/ijp.2023.75061.5372

Abstract

Abstract:

Introduction: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is a chronic rheumatic disorder that commonly affects children younger than 16 years old. The incidence and prevalence of JIA can vary greatly depending on ethnicity, genetic background, and socioeconomic status within different populations. Epidemiological studies play an essential role in planning successful treatment for chronic diseases like JIA and providing appropriate care measures in specific geographic regions.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 149 children were referred to the pediatric rheumatology department of Akbar Hospital in Mashhad from 2016 to 2019. Data was collected from all children within the first six months of disease onset, including the number of affected joints, demographic characteristics, systemic symptoms, extra-articular manifestations, and medication regimens.

Results: The most prevalent subtype of JIA is Oligoarticular, followed by Systemic JIA at 25.5%. Among children with enthesitis-related arthritis, more girls than boys were affected. Additionally, the lower limb joints were the most frequently affected in children. 5.4% of the total, had involvement of lumbosacral and sacroiliac joints. Serositis was observed in 2% of the patients. Uveitis was detected in 4 out of 154 patients (2.6%), 3 of these cases were chronic anterior uveitis, while one was acute anterior uveitis. 3 children (2%) were reported to have Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS).

Conclusion: Diagnosing juvenile idiopathic arthritis and other rheumatic diseases in children can often be delayed due to physicians lacking adequate clinical knowledge. To properly manage this chronic childhood illness, it is crucial to identify its symptoms and clinical course. This study represents the most comprehensive research conducted on children with JIA in Northeast Iran.

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