Rheumatoid Arthritis Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Rheumatoid Arthritis, including details on treatment, symptoms, causes, medication.

The impact on health-related quality of life from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, methotrexate, or steroids in treatment for juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Riddle R, Ryser CN, Morton AA, Sampson JD, Browne RH, Punaro MG, Gatchel RJ

Department of Psychology, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, 2222 Welborn, Dallas, Texas 75219, USA. russ.riddle@tsrh.org

OBJECTIVE: To assess and compare the impact of medication treatments on health-related quality of life (HRQOL), family function, and medical status in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). METHODS: Fifty-seven children diagnosed with JIA were assessed by a pediatric rheumatologist and placed into one of three treatment groups: (1) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory; (2) methotrexate; or (3) steroids via IV methylprednisolone. Questionnaires were administered at baseline and 4-month follow-up. The attending pediatric rheumatologist provided additional medical information. RESULTS: Data document the impact of JIA on HRQOL, particularly on physical and pain domains. Steroid patients experienced improved HRQOL at follow-up relative to other groups, despite reporting more problems with side effects. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate positive benefits of steroids in treating JIA children, despite the greatest incidence of adverse side effects.

Published 9 March 2006 in J Pediatr Psychol, 31(3): 262-71.
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