« RETURN TO FAQs

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Is JIA the same as JRA?

JIA is a term that describes a group of chronic inflammatory diseases that affect children. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) is an older term that referred to a similar set of inflammatory problems.

What is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)?

JIA is defined as arthritis (inflammation of the joints) of greater than 3 months' duration with onset at less than 16 years of age. Other causes of arthritis in children, such as leukemia, should be excluded to confirm the diagnosis.

What are the symptoms of JIA?

Symptoms include joint pain and tenderness, redness over the involved joint, decreased mobility, gait disturbance, limping, fever and rashes.

Can the eyes be affected by JIA?

Yes. Inflammation of the inside of the eye/s is called iritis or anterior uveitis. While uveitis may cause symptoms such as decreased vision, floaters, pain, redness, or light sensitivity, there are usually NO symptoms. The white blood cells and proteins in the aqueous fluid in the front part of the eye are detectable only with a special instrument called a slit-lamp. For this reason it is very important to have routine, serial exams by an ophthalmologist (a medical doctor who specializes in treating diseases of the eye) to check for iritis.

Fig. 1 Effects of uveitis on the eye.

What are the effects of uveitis on the eye?

If untreated, inflammation can cause glaucoma, cataract formation, calcium deposits in the cornea (band keratopathy) and swelling in the retina (macular edema). These problems can result in decreased vision and even blindness [See figure 1].

Band keratopathy, calcium deposits on the corneal surface associated with chronic iritis

What treatments are available for uveitis?

Eye drops are usually prescribed to treat uveitis with corticosteroids being the most common. Corticosteroids decrease the reaction of the immune system. When applied in drop form, the effect is only in the eye itself. Other eye drops may be given to help dilate the pupil and relieve discomfort.

Corticosteroids may also be given systemically or as an injection around the eye. A rheumatologist may also treat JIA with systemic medication that compliments the treatment of the uveitis.

Will the uveitis ever come back?

It may; it is important to continue examinations with an ophthalmologist at regular intervals.

Which doctors specialize in the care of a child with JIA?

The treatment of JIA is best utilizing a team approach. The primary care physician often enlists the help of medical doctors with subspecialty training and expertise to treat children with JIA. These include a rheumatologist, an orthopedic surgeon, and an ophthalmologist, who is a medical doctor with specialty training in treating diseases of the eye.

Where can I find more information regarding JIA?

Arthritis Foundation
VISIT SITE »