New advances in juvenile spondyloarthritis.

Abstract

Juvenile spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a distinct disease to adult SpA, and usually manifests as peripheral arthritis and enthesitis. Importantly, many patients with juvenile SpA continue to be at risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis during their disease course. In this Review, the classification and diagnostic criteria, clinical manifestations and treatment guidelines for juvenile SpA will be discussed. Advances in the diagnosis of and management strategies for juvenile SpA will lead to earlier recognition, appropriate treatment and improved rates of inactive disease, which should lead to improved patient outcomes and quality of life.