A child with systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis and nephrotic syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Amyloidosis of the kidney is a rare complication in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), more commonly seen with systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SOJIA). It usually presents with asymptomatic proteinuria.

Case report: An 11.5-year-old boy with onset of SOJIA at 6 years of age came to our clinic with anasarca. Urinalysis and serum albumin suggested a diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome (NS) and kidney biopsy confirmed amyloidosis deposits. Treatment with injection tocilizumab was initiated. The proteinuria has decreased, and kidney functions are normal.

Conclusion: Children with SOJIA should be monitored for proteinuria so that they can be offered timely appropriate therapy.

Keywords: Amyloidosis; Chronic JIA; IL-6 inhibitor; Nephrotic syndrome; Proteinuria; SOJIA.