What is Still's Disease?
Still's Disease is a rare type of inflammatory arthritis that can affect both adults and children. It’s characterized by high fevers, rash, and joint inflammation. There are two main forms of Still's Disease:
- Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (sJIA), which typically affects children.
- Adult-onset Still’s Disease (AOSD), which, as the name suggests, affects adults.
Still's Disease is classified as an auto-inflammatory condition, meaning it results from an overactive immune system that mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. While the exact cause is not fully understood, genetic and environmental factors are believed to contribute.
Side Effects of Still's Disease
The symptoms of Still's Disease can vary but often include:
- High fevers that typically spike once or twice a day.
- Rashes that may appear as salmon-colored spots or patches on the skin.
- Joint pain and swelling, which can affect one or multiple joints.
- Fatigue and weakness, leading to decreased daily functioning.
Liver and spleen enlargement
- Sore throat or mild respiratory symptoms in some cases.
if left untreated, Still’s Disease can lead to complications such as joint damage, growth issues in children, and anemia.
How is Still's Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosing Still's Disease can be challenging because its symptoms overlap with many other conditions. The diagnostic process usually involves:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms and conduct a thorough physical exam.
- Laboratory Tests: Blood tests are crucial to identify markers of inflammation, such as elevated white blood cells and elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) or ferritin. However, there is no single test that confirms Still’s Disease.
- Imaging Studies: X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to assess joint damage or inflammation.
- Exclusion of Other Conditions: Often, Still’s Disease is diagnosed by ruling out other possible conditions that could cause similar symptoms.
Potential Treatment of Still's Disease
Treatment for Still's Disease focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Options may include:
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids are commonly used to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics may be prescribed for more severe cases.
- Physical Therapy: Helps maintain joint function and reduce stiffness.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest can support overall health and well-being.
- Regular Monitoring: Frequent check-ups with a rheumatologist to monitor disease progression and adjust treatment as needed.
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