The condition and the treatments

Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in joints. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a type of arthritis that starts in people younger than 16 years (juvenile). The cause is unknown (idiopathic). Enthesitis‑related arthritis is a type of juvenile idiopathic arthritis that affects tendons where they attach to the bones. Psoriatic arthritis is a type of juvenile idiopathic arthritis with both inflammation in joints and the skin condition psoriasis. It is described as active when the skin or joint symptoms occur.

Abatacept (Orencia), adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel) and tocilizumab (RoActemra) help to reduce pain and swelling caused by juvenile idiopathic arthritis. They may slow down the disease and help to prevent permanent joint damage.

NHS Choices (www.nhs.uk) may be a good place to find out more.

  • Information Standard