Adult outcomes of childhood-onset rheumatic diseases

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Pediatric Rheumatology
• Adult Rheumatology

Background:

• Growing number of patients with childhood-onset rheumatic diseases (CORDs) surviving into adulthood.
• Need for comprehensive understanding of long-term health, functional, and quality of life outcomes in these adults.
• Specific CORDs include juvenile idiopathic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, juvenile dermatomyositis, and localized scleroderma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize existing research on adult outcomes of CORDs.
• To identify modifiable risk factors impacting long-term health and quality of life.
• To emphasize the importance of monitoring specific health aspects like cardiovascular, bone, and fertility health.

Main Methods:

• Review of studies published over the past 10 years.
• Focus on long-term health, functional status, and quality of life outcomes.
• Analysis of data related to cardiovascular health, bone health, and fertility.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests significant long-term implications for adults previously diagnosed with CORDs.
• Identification of key areas requiring attention, including cardiovascular, bone, and reproductive health.
• Importance of proactive management and risk factor identification for improved patient trajectories.

Conclusions:

• Understanding adult outcomes of CORDs is crucial for improving patient care.
• Addressing modifiable risk factors is vital for enhancing long-term health and quality of life.
• A successful transition from pediatric to adult rheumatology care is essential for managing this growing patient population.