Juvenile idiopathic arthritis CT

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1];Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Template:D Makkar

Computed tomography (CT) has a limited role in the routine evaluation of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) but may be useful in selected clinical scenarios to assess complex anatomy or complications not well visualized on plain radiographs.

• Evaluation of complex joints such as the temporomandibular joint, spine, or sacroiliac joints
• Assessment of osseous detail when radiographs are inconclusive
• Evaluation of suspected complications, including fractures or advanced joint destruction

• Cortical bone erosions not clearly visible on radiographs
• Subchondral cysts and sclerosis in chronic disease
• Joint space narrowing in advanced arthritis
• Bony ankylosis in longstanding disease
• Structural abnormalities of the temporomandibular joint, including condylar flattening and erosions

• Limited sensitivity for early inflammatory changes
• Inability to assess active synovitis or bone marrow edema
• Exposure to ionizing radiation, which limits routine use in pediatric patients

CT findings should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical assessment and other imaging modalities. Magnetic resonance imaging is generally preferred for early detection of inflammatory changes in juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Computed tomography has a limited role in juvenile idiopathic arthritis and is reserved for selected cases requiring detailed assessment of bony anatomy, particularly when magnetic resonance imaging is unavailable or contraindicated.^[1][2]

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