E30 Sequelae of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis in a 20-year-old young woman

Abstract

Abstract Background The long-term effects of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis are still largely unknown in our context. We set out to describe the long-term complications of a patient known to have Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis who underwent follow up into adulthood. Methods Retrospective chart review Results We report a case of a female patient, now 20 years’ old who was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis since the age of 8 years. The patient initially received symptomatic treatment with paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs administered during flare-ups. After 12 years of follow up, she has failure to thrive (BMI 15.43 kg/m2) and delayed secondary sexual characteristics (menarche at 17, poorly developed chest). Other sequelae include bilateral boutonniere deformation of the 2nd and 3rd fingers, camel back deformity of the wrists, flexion contractures of the elbows, and bilateral coxopathy. She has tenderness and limited range of motion of shoulders, knees and ankles with bilateral thigh atrophy. She has a tender cervical spine painful and limited movement (C7-wall at 4.5 cm, tragus-acromion at 9 cm on the right and on the left). Conclusion This case highlights the importance of early control of the disease to mitigate against sequelae with negative impact on the academic and social life of the patient. The implication to policy, practice, research and advocacy The case illustrates the consequences of sub-optimal management of chronic inflammatory rheumatism in Africa, especially among children, due to lack of expertise and resources across the continent. Ethics We have no conflict of interest