To assess the efficacy and effects on cartilage and statural growth of intraarticular corticosteroid (IAS) therapy for chronic arthritis in children and adolescents.
We examined 21 children and adolescents with chronic arthritis (median duration, 8 months) that did not respond to nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. The 21 joints injected with triamcinolone-hexacetonide were examined before and 7 weeks after IAS therapy by gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging; 14 joints were also examined 13 months after IAS therapy.
All joints treated with IAS had improvement. Magnetic resonance imaging showed long-lasting suppression of inflammation and pannus without evidence of toxic effects on cartilage. Statural growth was not affected.
In experienced hands, IAS therapy may be a safe and effective tool in the treatment of chronic arthritis in childhood. Long-term follow-up is mandatory.