Polyarticular Arthritis

Definition

Definition of Polyarticular Arthritis
Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), also known as polyarthritis, affects 5 or more joints during the first 6 months of symptoms. This type of JIA is more severe than oligoarticular JIA because it affects more joints and tends to get worse over time.

Polyarticular JIA often begins in large joints, such as the knee or hip, but may start in the small joints of the hands and fingers. It also may affect the knees, ankles, feet, neck, and jaw.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Polyarticular Arthritis
Symptoms of polyarticular JIA usually affect the same joints on both sides of the body, such as the joints of both hands. A child with polyarthritis may also develop:

1. Joint damage (erosion).
2. Whole-body (systemic) symptoms, such as weakness, fever, and rash.
3. Small bumps under the skin (rheumatoid nodules), especially at pressure points such as the elbows or heels. This is most common in RF-positive polyarthritis.

Causes

Causes of Polyarticular Arthritis
Polyarticular arthritis can be caused by several things, including viruses, infections, bacterium, hyperthyroidism, Lyme disease and congenital abnormalities.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Polyarticular Arthritis
A rheumatologist usually performs a physical exam and orders lab tests and imaging procedures to diagnose polyarticular arthritis. If she can identify the cause of the arthritis, she will be able to formulate a better treatment plan.

Treatment

Treatment of Polyarticular Arthritis
Treatment includes heat therapy, non-steroidal inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, joint immobilization and immunosuppression. Methods used depend on whether the doctor can identify the underlying cause and if it is treatable.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Polyarticular Arthritis
Consult with your doctor.

Prevention

Prevention of Polyarticular Arthritis
Consult with your doctor.