P15 Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA): an entity that mimics many different diseases: case report of three patients

Introduction Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with arthritis of unknown origin that appers before the age of 16 and persists for more than 6 weeks. It is the most common rheumatic disease in children and is characterised by eterogeneity. Purpose The description of three cases of JIA diagnosed at our paediatric department, according to demographic and other factors. Method The first case refers to a 2 year old young girl admitted to our department due to prolonged fever and lameness. The laboratory tests revealed elevates ECR levels. As far as the other two patients are concerned, they were boys, 4 and 7 years old respectively, that were both admitted due to joint pain and lameness. The laboratory tests revealed elevates ECR levels, but the articular punctures were not diagnostic. Results Specific immunology tests were performed to all the patients. Positive ANA and anti-dsDNA Ab were found at the girl. Eye examination revealed iridocyclitis, while ultrasound showed synovitis. JIA was confirmed and treatment started with methotrexate. MRI was performed to both boys, that revealed significant ammount of fluid at the affected joint. JIA was an on exclusion diagnosis and treatment included per os corticosteroids and methotrexate. Conclusion JIA is an entity that should be taken into concideration when monoathritis, lameness or prolonged fever is investigated. Being connected to bony deformity and growth retardation, prompt diagnosis and treatment are of great value.