### What is Systemic-Onset Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis? Systemic-onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), also known as Still's disease, is a rare type of arthritis that affects children. It causes inflammation throughout the body, not just in the joints. ### Symptoms The main symptoms include: - High fevers (102°F or higher) - A pale pink or salmon-colored rash, usually on the chest and thighs - Joint pain and swelling - Inflammation of the lining of the lungs (pleuritis) or heart (pericarditis) - Swollen lymph nodes, spleen, and liver Symptoms can come and go, and the fever often spikes at night. ### Causes The exact cause is unknown, but it may involve a faulty immune system response to stress or infections. It can run in families. ### Diagnosis There is no single test for systemic-onset JIA. Doctors diagnose it through physical exams, family medical history, and tests to rule out other conditions. ### Treatment Treatment options include: - **Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):** Celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) - **Corticosteroids:** Medications like prednisone to reduce immune response and inflammation - **Biologics:** Medicines from natural sources, such as anakinra (Kineret) or tocilizumab (Actemra) ### Management Children should get plenty of rest during flare-ups and engage in exercise and physical therapy when they feel better. ### Prognosis Many children see improvement within a few months, but some may continue to have arthritis into adulthood.