Rheumatoid Arthritis and Atypical Arthritidies-The Hand and Wrist in Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

The Hand and Wrist in Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) is a chronic, autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints in children and adolescents. The hand is one of the major areas affected by this condition. Children with JRA often experience hand and wrist-related impairments such as restricted motion and reduced grip strength, even when the disease is not actively inflamed. Diagnostic methods for JRA include blood tests, X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. MRI and ultrasound can detect subclinical hand involvement and signs of inflammation. Treatment for JRA includes oral medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and surgery, if necessary. Surgical interventions may include synovectomy, tendon repair, joint reconstruction, and arthrodesis. Multidisciplinary treatment, involving rheumatologists, surgeons, therapists, and psychologists, is necessary to manage JRA and prevent long-term disability. It is important to diagnose and treat JRA early to minimize functional limitations in children. Regular clinical and radiographic evaluations are necessary to monitor the disease progression and adjust the treatment plan accordingly. Further research is needed to assess the functional outcomes and limitations of surgical interventions in pediatric JRA patients.

Keywords

Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

autoimmune disease

inflammation of joints

hand impairments

diagnostic methods

treatment options

surgical interventions

multidisciplinary treatment

long-term disability

pediatric JRA patients