Atypical presentation of systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a case report

Authors

  • Aadinadh M. J. Department of Paediatrics, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India
  • Arvind Bountra Department of Paediatrics, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20261555

Keywords:

Arthritis, Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Shoulder abscess, Methotrexate

Abstract

Systemic Onset Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SOJIA) is an autoinflammatory disorder that can present with a wide range of symptoms, often mimicking infectious etiologies like tuberculosis and other bacterial infections, so atypical presentations can pose a diagnostic challenge. Here, we report a case of a 4-year-old female who presented with high-grade fever for 2 weeks, unresponsive to initial antibiotic therapy. Despite extensive investigations, the focus of infection was not found. Imaging revealed bilateral shoulder joint abscesses, which were sterile, with significantly elevated serum inflammatory markers. Clinical and laboratory findings were consistent with diagnosis of Systemic Onset Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SOJIA) and subsequently corticosteroid and methotrexate therapy were started, to which the child responded.

References

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Published

2026-05-26

How to Cite

M. J., A., & Bountra, A. (2026). Atypical presentation of systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a case report. International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics, 13(6), 1029–1031. https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20261555

Issue

Section

Case Reports