Imaging of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Multimodality Approach
A practical radiology review of Imaging of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Multimodality Approach, focused on imaging findings, differential diagnosis, reporting points, and...
RadPhrases Editorial Team1 min read
A practical radiology review of Imaging of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Multimodality Approach, focused on imaging findings, differential diagnosis, reporting points, and high-yield teaching pearls.
Definition
- Chronic arthritis of unknown cause in children <16 yrs, persisting ≥6 weeks.
- Encompasses multiple subtypes (oligoarticular, polyarticular, systemic, etc.).
Typical Presentation
- Joint pain, swelling, stiffness (especially morning)
- May have fever, rash, lymphadenopathy (systemic type)
- Growth disturbances, limb length discrepancy, joint contractures in chronic disease
Pathophysiology
Autoimmune inflammatory process targeting synovium → synovial hypertrophy, pannus formation, cartilage and bone erosion.
Imaging Features
X-ray
- Early: soft tissue swelling, osteopenia near joint
- Late: joint space narrowing, erosions, growth plate changes
MRI
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