Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Expert diagnosis and personalized treatment at Arthritis Care of Los Angeles.
What is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis?
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common type of arthritis in children under age 16. It is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing persistent inflammation, pain, swelling, and stiffness. The word "idiopathic" means the cause is unknown. JIA encompasses several subtypes, including oligoarticular (affecting four or fewer joints), polyarticular (five or more joints), and systemic (joint inflammation plus fever and rash). JIA can affect any joint and may also impact the eyes, skin, and growth. Some children experience mild symptoms that resolve within a few years, while others have more severe disease that persists into adulthood. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent joint damage, growth problems, and complications such as uveitis (eye inflammation). Dr. Forouzesh at Arthritis Care of Los Angeles provides specialized rheumatologic care for young patients and their families at both our Culver City and Encino offices. Working closely with pediatricians and other specialists, Dr. Forouzesh develops comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each child's specific subtype and needs.
Common Symptoms
- Joint pain, swelling, and tenderness that persists for six weeks or more
- Morning stiffness and difficulty moving after periods of inactivity
- Limping or favoring one limb, especially in younger children
- Swelling in one or more joints, particularly the knees
- Eye redness, pain, or light sensitivity (may indicate uveitis)
- High spiking fevers with a salmon-colored rash (systemic JIA)
- Fatigue and decreased activity levels
- Reduced growth rate or uneven limb length
Experiencing these symptoms? Get expert care today.
How is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing JIA requires a thorough evaluation because there is no single test to confirm the condition. Dr. Forouzesh conducts a complete physical examination and detailed medical history, looking for patterns of joint involvement and systemic symptoms. Blood tests may include antinuclear antibody (ANA), rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, inflammatory markers (ESR and CRP), and a complete blood count. Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI help assess joint inflammation and rule out other causes. An ophthalmologic examination is also essential, as children with JIA, especially those who are ANA-positive, are at increased risk for silent eye inflammation that can cause permanent vision damage.
Treatment Options
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce pain and inflammation. These are often the first treatment used for mild JIA.
Disease-Modifying Drugs (DMARDs)
Methotrexate is the most commonly used DMARD for JIA and helps control inflammation and prevent joint damage when NSAIDs alone are insufficient.
Biologic Therapies
Targeted medications such as TNF inhibitors (etanercept, adalimumab) or IL-6 inhibitors (tocilizumab) that block specific parts of the immune response driving inflammation.
Corticosteroid Injections
Joint injections to deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly to affected joints, providing rapid relief with fewer systemic side effects.
Physical and Occupational Therapy
Exercises and activities designed to maintain joint range of motion, build strength, and help children participate fully in school and play.
Regular Eye Examinations
Scheduled ophthalmologic screenings to detect and treat uveitis early, preventing vision complications.
Key Statistics
300,000
Children in the US affected by JIA
Source: Arthritis Foundation
#1
Most common chronic rheumatic disease in childhood
Source: American College of Rheumatology
< 16
Age of onset (years) required for diagnosis
Source: International League of Associations for Rheumatology
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Expert Care?
Schedule your appointment with Dr. Solomon Forouzesh, MD, FACP, FACR — a board-certified rheumatologist with 50++ years of expertise in arthritis and autoimmune diseases.