Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Etiopathogenesis, Therapy And Outcomes

Abstract

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatological disease in children and is classified according to the criteria of the International League of Rheumatological Associations. JIA is divided into oligoarticular, polyarticular, systemic, psoriatic, enthesitis-like, and undifferentiated arthritis, depending on the number of affected joints, the presence of extra-articular manifestations, systemic symptoms, serological changes, and genetic factors. This article provides an overview of advances in understanding JIA pathogenesis, etiology, histopathology, immunological changes consistent with disease activity, and treatment options. JIA is discussed in the context of treatment, including traditional non-biological and modern biologic antirheumatic drugs. However, a significant number of patients remain refractory to treatment, although the advent of advanced therapeutic methods has improved clinical outcomes, which necessitates further understanding of the progression and remission of the disease in order to select adequate therapy.