Still's Disease vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Key Differences
Two distinct forms of arthritis, Still's disease and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), have unique symptoms and causes. While both can affect children and adults, they differ in prevalence, onset, and progression.
Still's disease, also known as systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA), primarily affects children, with a prevalence of 30 to 200 per 100,000. It typically manifests in those aged 16 to 35, starting with high fevers, salmon-colored rashes, sore throats, and swollen lymph nodes. Joint and muscle pain may follow weeks later. In contrast, RA is more common overall, mainly affecting adults aged 30 to 50. It involves chronic joint inflammation and destruction, caused by the immune system attacking healthy cells.
Both conditions can affect children under 16, with some researchers suggesting Still's disease could be an adult form of systemic JIA. Diagnosis relies on symptom history, physical exams, blood tests, and imaging. While RA is a lifelong condition, Still's disease often appears in episodes, with acute symptoms like high fever.
Still's disease and rheumatoid arthritis are distinct arthritis conditions with different symptoms, ages of onset, and progression. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
