Stills disease can also occur in adults.
When it does, it is called adult-onset Stills disease (AOSD).
This article discusses Still’s disease and its symptoms.
Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin, Verywell
It also covers treatment and prognosis.
What Is Still’s Disease?
Still’s disease is a rare pop in of inflammatory arthritis that can affect the whole body.
It can cause joint pain along with whole-body symptoms like fever.
There is an adult-onset form of the disease and a childhood form.
The primary difference between the two conditions is the age when symptoms begin.
Adult-onset Stills disease is rare.
What Does Still’s Disease Feel Like?
Stills disease causes systemic (whole-body) symptoms in both adults and children.
These are areas where SJIA can cause the most destruction and require joint replacement surgeries.
The more joints that are affected, the more severe SJIA will be.
Growth Issues in Children
SJIA can cause growth issues in children.
When joints are severely affected, growth may be slowed, especially in the arms and legs.
The cause of Still disease is unknown.
Some research suggests Stills may be triggered by ongoing infections.
Neither theory about what may cause Stills has been confirmed and the precise cause is still unknown.
It is important for people who have symptoms of Stills to contact their doctors.
If there are breathing troubles, seeking immediate medical attention is a priority.
Before making a diagnosis, other medical problems will need to be ruled out.
A medical history and physical exam are usually the first steps.
Blood work can check inflammation levels, blood cell counts, iron levels, and elevated liver enzymes.
What Is the Best Treatment for Still’s Disease?
For people whose symptoms persist, immunosuppressant drugs are a second-line therapy.
These medications affect the inflammatory response of the immune system and include medications such as methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine.
Treatment can reduce inflammation and other symptoms.
Some people may develop chronic arthritis, but medications can help.
What is the survival rate of Still’s disease?
Most people with Still’s disease have a normal life expectancy.
However, certain Still’s disease complications like macrophage activation syndrome can be life-threatening.
The condition is most common in children, but there is also an adult-onset version.
Most people with Still’s disease have a normal lifespan, but some of its complications can be life-threatening.
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