Oligoarticular JIA

This is the most common type of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) which affects children at the age of two to four years old. It accounts for around 50% of all JIA cases.

This arthritis affects more girls than boys.

Presentation of oligoarticular JIA

A maximum of four joints are affected which are usually the wrists, knees and ankles. These become red, swollen and inflamed and are often stiff in the mornings. This limits the movement in that joint.

But this disease can also affect the eyes. This is usually due to the presence of an antibody called ‘antinuclear antibody’ or ‘ANA’ for short.

There are no obvious symptoms associated with this eye inflammation but there is the risk of long term damage if left untreated.

So, it is important that the child undergoes an examination of their eyes on a regular basis.

Treatment of oligoarticular JIA

Treatment for oligoarticular JIA involves oral (by mouth) form of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s) or steroid injections. Your child will be prescribed one or both of these depending upon their symptoms.

Examples of these include ibuprofen and prednisolone (steroid).

Prognosis of oligoarticular JIA

The outlook is very good for oligoarticular JIA children. They often make a full recovery during the latter part of their childhood and without any effects.

Unfortunately, these symptoms remain in a small percentage of children. These children are also at risk of damage to their joints or developing polyarticular JIA.