Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis

Introduction to Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis

Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis (JAS) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, with onset before the age of 16. It is part of the broader spectrum of juvenile spondyloarthropathies and shares features with adult-onset ankylosing spondylitis.

Key features of JAS include:

  • Chronic back pain and stiffness
  • Enthesitis (inflammation at tendon insertion sites)
  • Potential for extra-articular manifestations
  • Strong association with HLA-B27 genetic marker

JAS can significantly impact a child's growth, development, and quality of life, making early diagnosis and appropriate management crucial for long-term outcomes.



Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis
  1. What is Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis (JAS)?
    A chronic inflammatory arthritis affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints in children and adolescents
  2. At what age does JAS typically onset?
    Late childhood or adolescence, usually after age 10
  3. What is the male to female ratio in JAS?
    Approximately 7:1 (males are more commonly affected)
  4. Which genetic factor is strongly associated with JAS?
    HLA-B27
  5. What percentage of JAS patients are HLA-B27 positive?
    80-90%
  6. Which joint is characteristically involved in the early stages of JAS?
    Sacroiliac joint
  7. What is the most common initial symptom of JAS?
    Low back pain and stiffness
  8. How is the back pain in JAS typically described?
    Inflammatory back pain (improves with activity, worsens with rest)
  9. Which peripheral joints are commonly affected in JAS?
    Hip and shoulder joints
  10. What is enthesitis?
    Inflammation at the site where tendons or ligaments insert into bone
  11. Which imaging modality is most useful for early detection of sacroiliitis in JAS?
    MRI
  12. What is the name of the posture test used to assess spinal mobility in JAS?
    Schober's test
  13. Which extra-articular manifestation is common in JAS?
    Acute anterior uveitis
  14. What is the typical pattern of spinal involvement in JAS?
    Ascending involvement from lumbar to cervical spine
  15. Which radiographic finding is characteristic of advanced JAS?
    Bamboo spine (complete fusion of vertebrae)
  16. What is the first-line treatment for JAS?
    NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
  17. Which class of biologic drugs has shown significant efficacy in JAS treatment?
    TNF inhibitors (e.g., adalimumab, etanercept)
  18. What is the role of physical therapy in JAS management?
    Essential for maintaining spinal mobility and posture
  19. Which complication can occur due to chronic inflammation in JAS?
    Osteoporosis
  20. What is the name of the questionnaire used to assess disease activity in JAS?
    BASDAI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index)
  21. Which cardiovascular complication is associated with long-standing JAS?
    Aortic valve insufficiency
  22. What is the role of sulfasalazine in JAS treatment?
    May be used for peripheral arthritis in JAS
  23. Which pulmonary complication can occur in advanced JAS?
    Restrictive lung disease due to chest wall rigidity
  24. What is the recommended frequency of ophthalmologic examinations in JAS patients?
    Annually
  25. Which spinal deformity can develop in untreated or severe JAS?
    Kyphosis
  26. What is the role of methotrexate in JAS treatment?
    Limited efficacy, may be used for peripheral arthritis
  27. Which diagnostic criteria are used for JAS?
    Modified New York criteria or ASAS criteria
  28. What is the long-term prognosis for patients with JAS?
    Variable, but many patients develop some degree of functional limitation
  29. Which occupation should be avoided by patients with advanced JAS?
    Jobs requiring prolonged static postures or heavy lifting


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The notes provided on Pediatime are generated from online resources and AI sources and have been carefully checked for accuracy. However, these notes are not intended to replace standard textbooks. They are designed to serve as a quick review and revision tool for medical students and professionals, and to aid in theory exam preparation. For comprehensive learning, please refer to recommended textbooks and guidelines.



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