Do the provisional PRINTO Enthesitis/Spondylitis-Related JIA criteria capture youth with axial spondyloarthritis?

Background: The Paediatric Rheumatology International Trials Organisation (PRINTO) recently undertook an effort to better harmonize the pediatric and adult arthritis criteria. These provisional criteria are being refined for optimal performance. We aimed to investigate differences between patients who did and did not fulfill these PRINTO criteria amongst youth diagnosed with juvenile spondyloarthritis (SpA) that met axial juvenile SpA (axJSpA) classification criteria.

Pediatric Pelvis.

The development of the pelvis follows a predictable pattern of ossification that involves the maturation of bone, synchondroses, and apophyses. These growth centers appear and close at distinct times during skeletal maturity and give rise to structural changes in the pelvis that can be distinctively appreciated on various imaging modalities. Accurate interpretation of radiologic images requires knowledge of skeletal development because the varying appearance of the maturing pediatric pelvis may be mistaken for pathology.

Classification Criteria for Axial Disease in Youth With Juvenile Spondyloarthritis.

Objective: The goal was to develop and validate classification criteria for axial juvenile spondyloarthritis (SpA; AxJSpA).

Methods: This international initiative consisted of four phases: (1) item generation, (2) item reduction, (3) criteria development, and (4) validation of the AxJSpA criteria by an independent team of experts in an internationally representative validation cohort.

Results: These criteria are intended to be used on youth with a physician diagnosis of juvenile SpA and for whom axial disease is suspected.

Imaging in pediatric spondyloarthritis.

Purpose Of Review: Imaging is used in the diagnosis of peripheral and axial disease in juvenile spondyloarthritis (JSpA). Imaging of the joints and entheses in children and adolescents can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the appearance of the maturing skeleton. These differences are key for rheumatologists and radiologists to be aware of.