Overview
Adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) is a rare systemic inflammatory disorder of unknown cause. It is characterised by the classic triad of high spiking fevers, a salmon-coloured rash, and joint pain. AOSD can affect multiple organs and varies greatly in severity, from mild to life-threatening. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to control inflammation and prevent complications.
Symptoms
High fever, rash, joint pain. Other common symptoms include muscle pain, sore throat, fatigue, weight loss, enlarged lymph nodes, and an enlarged liver or spleen. The rash is typically salmon-pink, non-itchy, and appears during fever spikes. Joint pain and swelling can be persistent and may lead to chronic arthritis.
Causes
Unknown, possibly immune system related. The exact cause of AOSD is not known, but it is thought to involve an abnormal immune response, potentially triggered by infections or environmental factors in people with a genetic predisposition. It is not contagious and is not considered an autoimmune disease in the classical sense.
Treatment
Anti-inflammatory medications and immune therapy. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, control symptoms, and prevent organ damage. Options include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate, and biologic agents that target specific inflammatory pathways (e.g., IL-1 and IL-6 inhibitors). Physical therapy and supportive care are also important.