Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a group of chronic inflammatory diseases of the joints that affect children. The exact cause is unknown, and symptoms may include joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Treatment aims to control inflammation, relieve pain, and maintain joint function, often with medications and physical therapy. The assessment of the Polygenic Risk Score for juvenile idiopathic arthritis It is based on the examination of 13 gene polymorphisms.
Genetic testing for juvenile idiopathic arthritis is included along with 11 other diseases in the Genetic Screening for Musculoskeletal Diseases, Polygenic Risk Score.
Causes and non-genetic risk factors
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body`s own immune system attacks joint tissues. At the moment, the cause of the disease is unknown, although it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
With regard to environmental risk factors, the following have been described: infectious and vaccinal history, psychological stress, maternal smoking during pregnancy or trauma, although the evidence is still very limited.
Symptoms
In general, the disease has a slow onset. Symptomatology usually begins with occasional lameness and morning stiffness that improves throughout the day. As the disease progresses, the affected joints appear swollen, warm to the touch, with limitation of motion and/or pain on palpation. However, it is important to note that there are several types of JIA with characteristic joint involvement.
On some occasions, the debut of JIA is abrupt with visceral involvement, causing a general picture that includes high fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes and hepatosplenomegaly, among others.
Prevention
At present, there is no way to prevent the onset of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Once diagnosed, management of the disease involves a combination of medication and a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, healthy exercise and adequate rest.
