To evaluate the therapeutic response to intraarticular triamcinolone acetonide injections in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Eight-eight patients were prospectively evaluated after receiving one or more intraarticular triamcinolone acetonide injections. A total of 194 joints were injected: 68 joints in 39 children with oligoarticular onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis, 36 joints in 17 children with polyarticular onset, 67 joints in 20 children with systemic onset, and 23 joints in 12 children with spondyloarthropathy.
Full resolution of signs of inflammation was achieved in 131 of 194 joints (67.5%). The percentage of remission was significantly lower in patients with systemic onset of the disease (36% versus 80% in the other groups). At the 6-month follow-up, 70% of the joints remained in remission. No significant complications were observed.
Intraarticular triamcinolone injections are safe and effective in children with chronic arthritis.