Characteristic Phenotypes of Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Patients in a Single Tertiary Hospital in Saudi Arabia and the Effectiveness of the Treatment: A Retrospective Record Review

Abstract

Abstract Objective: This study aims to determine the clinical characteristics, treatment methods, and outcomes of individuals diagnosed with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) at a single tertiary center in Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study conducted in a single tertiary center at King Abdulaziz University Hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The clinical characteristics, treatment methods, and outcomes from patients with sJIA between January 2012 and December 2022 and diagnosed before the age of 14 years were collected at diagnosis, at 3 months, and at 12 months intervals. Results: Out of 21 patients, 52% were female, with an average age at diagnosis of 6 years. The majority (73%) presented with fever, arthritis, and rash. Initial treatment involved steroids (59%), methotrexate (24%), and tocilizumab. Three months posttreatment, 73% showed improvement, and five patients had active disease. After 1 year, 5 out of 15 patients persisted with symptoms, necessitating additional treatments. The average follow-up duration was 50 months, with 73% achieving remission, but one patient died due to an allergic reaction to tocilizumab. Conclusions: The study highlights the heterogeneity of sJIA at presentations. The disparities in treatment reflect evolving guidelines and medications availability. The study emphasizes the importance of a national registry as well as the development of local recommendations.