Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) is the most common form of arthritis in children. It may be a mild condition that causes few problems over time, but it can be much more persistent and cause joint and tissue damage in other children. JRA can produce serious complications in more severe cases.

Arthritis is best described by four major changes in the joints that develop:

• Joint inflammation
• Joint contracture (stiff, bent joint)
• Joint damage
• Alteration or change in joint growth

Other symptoms include:

• Joint stiffness or decreased activity level
• Weakness in muscles or other soft tissues around involved joints.

There is no single test to diagnose JRA. The diagnosis is made when there has been persistent arthritis in one or more joints for at least six weeks after other possible illnesses have been ruled out.  Sometimes a variety of tests may be necessary to come to a firm diagnosis. Once the child's physician suspects or makes this diagnosis, a referral to a pediatric rheumatologist should be made. This is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of children with arthritis and related conditions.

The type of JRA is usually determined based on the symptoms the child has had during the first six months of the illness.

• Pauciarticular JRA affects four or fewer joints.
• Polyarticular JRA affects five or more joints.
• Systemic JRA affects at least one joint and causes rash and inflammation of internal organs.

CSSD Division of Rheumatology

© Children's Specialists, Division of Rheumatology
3020 Children's Way
San Diego, CA 92123
Appointments: (858) 966-8082