Definition: Polyarticular JRA refers to a form of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis which affects five or more joints. Polyarticular disease is a disease of many joints. This is the type of juvenile arthritis which doctors consider to be most similar to adult rheumatoid arthritis. About 30 percent of all children with JRA have polyarticular disease. Girls are two times more likely to have this disease than boys. The joints are usually affected symmetrically (on both sides). Often the small joints of the hands are affected, as well as other joints. Low grade fever, weight loss, and anemia may occur, and in severe cases growth problems. Most children with polyarticular disease test negative for rheumatoid factor and their prognosis is usually good. A minority of children test positive for rheumatoid factor and seemingly are at more risk for chronic, progressive destruction and joint damage.
Pronunciation: polly-art-ik-u-lar
Also Known As: JRA
Examples: The child was diagnosed with polyarticular JRA.
