Adult Onset Still's Disease (AOSD) is a rare inflammatory disorder characterized by high spiking fevers, joint pain, rash, and systemic symptoms. This condition was initially described in children (known as systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis), but when it occurs in adults, it is referred to as Adult Onset Still's Disease.
AOSD primarily affects young to middle-aged adults, with the peak age of onset being in the third and fourth decades of life. The exact cause of AOSD remains unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, resulting in inflammation throughout the body.
The hallmark symptom of AOSD is high, recurring fevers that often spike in the evening and can be accompanied by extreme fatigue. Joint pain and swelling are common and usually affect the wrists, knees, and ankles. A salmon-colored rash often appears during systemic flare-ups and may come and go. Other systemic symptoms may include sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, and enlarged liver and spleen.
Diagnosis of AOSD can be challenging as it shares similarities with other autoimmune diseases and infections. Medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests are used to rule out other conditions. Treatment usually involves a combination of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
Prognosis of AOSD varies from person to person but generally involves periods of remission and flare-ups. With prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many individuals with AOSD can achieve good symptom control and lead relatively normal lives.
