Current Approach to Treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Case Report of Hiperimmunglobulin E Syndrome Developed Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Abstract

Introduction: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) represents a heterogeneous group of childhood chronic arthritic conditions. The pathogenesis of JIA remains incompletely understood. This disease can lead to a significant morbidity including joint deformity, growth impairment and a persistence of active arthritis into adulthood. The past two decades have witnessed significant advances in treatment and improved outcomes for affected children. With the current use of biologics, more target-specific, better tolerated, safer and more effective treatments have become possible. However, continuing, comprehensive follow-up is needed to characterize the long-term effects of such treatments. Hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome (hyper-IgE, or Job's syndrome) is a rare immune deficiency characterized by high IgE levels, atopic chronic eczema, tendency towards recurrent pyogenic infection, neutrophil chemotaxis disorder and varying T-cell function impairment. Case Report: The case of a 17-year-old male patient with hyper-IgE who develops the oligoarticular subtype of JIA over a period of four years is discussed. The course of JIA is unfavorable, causing severe deformity of numerous joints (left elbow, right 3rd metacarpophalangeal, left knee, right ankle) and a fungal infection scar on the left eye. Blood tests show an ESR of 89 mm/h, rheumatoid factor (RF) 8.3 IU/mL (0-20) and positive antinuclear antibody (ANA). To improve gait, corrective surgery is performed on the right ankle, followed by rehabilitation and physical therapy. Conclusion: Developments in the near future will be crucial for understanding JIA pathophysiology and improving treatment.