The subclinical manifestations of cardiovascular disease in juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Abstract

Background. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is one of the most frequent chronic diseases of childhood, often persisting into adulthood and can lead to significant longterm morbidity. As a long-standing chronic inflammatory disease, concerns have been expressed about the risk of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) in JIA. Objective of the study. assessment of traditional cardiovascular risk factors in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Material and methods. The research is related to the analysis of bibliographic sources identified in PubMed, NCBI, Research Gate, Medline, from the last 10 years. Results. JIA is the most common chronic inflammatory arthritis in children and young people, with onset below the age of 16 years and characterized by pain, swelling and long-lasting joint stiffness. In the pathogenesis and progression of JIA, the imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines may be involved in the regulation of systemic inflammation, local joint lesions and bone erosion. In the last few decades, there has been considerable interest in the long-term outcomes of people with chronic inflammatory arthritis, and one area of particular interest has been the increased prevalence of CVD. This increased risk is attributed to a higher prevalence of traditional CVD risk factors and the role of systemic inflammation in accelerating atherosclerosis. Previous studies have identified an elevation of traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors in JIA, including family history of cardiovascular disease, hypertension and even smoking history. In addition, an abnormal lipid profile has been observed. Conclusions. Patients with JIA present with subclinical signs of inflammation and risk of cardiovascular disease, evidenced by increased levels of inflammatory cytokines, elevated lipid profile abnormalities involved in impairment of the cardiovascular system.