What Causes Still’s Disease?

While there is a large field of research devoted to what causes Still’s Disease, there has yet to be a determining cause to be found. The symptoms of Still’s Disease, such as the systemic features that affect the organs as well as the high spiking fevers, usually run their course within seven months of onset.

The arthritic symptoms, however, tend to become a long-term problem witch stays with the patient for far long after the other symptoms have gone away. In fact, the arthritis itself can become chronic and stay with the child into their adolescence and adulthood.

Other symptoms that affect children include lethargy – which impacts their overall physical activity, and loss of appetite. What usually marks the onset of symptoms for children is limping, as most children have great difficulty in discussing or communicating their level of pain. The most persistent clinical manifestation of Still’s Disease is the swelling in the patient’s affected joints.

The joints that are commonly affected are the writs, ankle, knee, as well as the smaller joints of the feet and hands. Some swelling may be difficult to check, especially the joints along the spine, hip, jaw, and shoulder – all of which requires MRI or ultrasound to detect.