Spotlight on... JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS

Expert SANDRA VINCENT explains the autoimmune condition that affects at least one in 1000 Aussie kids under 16

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the name given to a number of types of arthritis that occur in children. “It is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in joints leading to chronic joint pain and fatigue,” says Sandra Vincent, CEO of Arthritis NSW. “If left unmanaged, patients suffer an increased risk from preventable complications such as permanent joint damage and sight-threatening eye inflammation, which can be managed with early diagnosis and intervention.”

So how can you know if your child or grandchild is at risk of JIA or potentially already suffering? Sandra explains...

DIAGNOSIS

Sadly, there is no single test for JIA at this stage.

“Diagnosis can involve a review of the child’s medical history and that of their biological family, physical examinations, X-rays, ultrasounds, eye tests and blood tests,” says Sandra.

Unfortunately, there’s a lack of funding and education for JIA, which makes the first step of diagnosis a difficult process.

“For those in New South Wales, the average JIA family waits 10 months for diagnosis and has to present to four or five medical professionals before a diagnosis is made,” says Sandra. “The national standard of care for JIA states that there should be no more than a one month wait between initial referral and the child being seen by a paediatric rheumatologist in clinic.”

TREATMENT

Treatments vary by the type of JIA (there are six subtypes), the joints it affects, severity and non-joint symptoms such as eye inflammation.

“Normally, a multidisciplinary approach is taken,” says Sandra. “This includes medication, physio or occupational therapy, rheumatology nursing and sometimes also social work and psychology involvement.”

MANAGEMENT

There is currently no cure for JIA.

“Approximately 50 per cent of patients with JIA will still need treatment for the condition as adults,” says Sandra. “However, the condition can be managed with early diagnosis and ongoing regular monitoring of disease activity to avoid permanent damage to joints and eyes.”

Visit arthritisnsw.org.au or call 1800 011 041 for more information and resources.