Still's disease related to COVID-19
Related to the article: "COVID-19 Vaccines 'May Trigger' Rheumatic Inflammatory Diseases: Study" https://www.theepochtimes.com/healt
Excerpt: On average, patients developed rheumatic diseases 11 days after vaccine administration, according to the study.
A new review suggests that COVID vaccines "may trigger" rheumatic
immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, including arthritis, vasculitis,
lupus, and adult-onset Still's disease.
On average, patients developed rheumatic diseases 11 days after vaccine
administration, according to the study. Seventy-five (over 27 percent)
of these patients experienced total disease remission, and about 50
percent improved following treatment. Eight were admitted to intensive
care, and two died from their symptoms.
"New-onset inflammatory diseases ‘may be triggered’ by COVID-19 infection, vaccination"
https://www.healio.com/news/rheumatology/20230824/newonset-inflammatory-diseases-may-be-triggered-by-covid19-infection-vaccination
Key takeaways:
- The possible new-onset manifestations include inflammatory joint diseases, polymyalgia rheumatica, connective tissue diseases and vasculitis.
- The researchers added that it is “highly plausible” that the risk from SARS-CoV-2 infection remains the greater concern, and that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and efficacious.
Still's disease
Systemic Inflammation: The hallmark of Still's disease is systemic inflammation, which means that it can affect multiple systems in the body. This inflammation can manifest as high fevers, rash, and general malaise.
High Spiking Fevers: One of the most characteristic symptoms of Still's disease is daily spiking fevers, often reaching 104°F (40°C) or higher. These fevers are usually accompanied by a distinctive pattern of high fevers in the evenings or early mornings.
Arthritis: Many individuals with Still's disease develop arthritis, which can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike some other types of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, arthritis in Still's disease tends to be less destructive to the joints.
Rash: A salmon-pink rash can appear during fever spikes, typically on the trunk and limbs. This rash is a common feature in Still's disease.
Enlarged Lymph Nodes and Spleen: Swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) and an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) are common findings in Still's disease.
Involvement of Internal Organs: In severe cases, Still's disease can affect internal organs, including the heart, lungs, liver, and others. This involvement can lead to complications like pericarditis (inflammation of the lining around the heart), pleuritis (inflammation of the lining of the lungs), and hepatosplenomegaly (enlarged liver and spleen).
The exact cause of Still's disease is not well understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Genetic factors may also play a role in its development.
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, physical examinations, and blood tests, which can reveal elevated levels of inflammatory markers. Other potential conditions with similar symptoms, such as infections or other autoimmune diseases, must be ruled out.
Treatment for Still's disease often involves a combination of medications to manage inflammation and relieve symptoms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics are commonly used to control the disease and prevent long-term complications. Regular monitoring by a rheumatologist is essential to adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Still's disease is a chronic condition, and its course can vary greatly between individuals. Some may experience remission, while others may require ongoing treatment. Early and aggressive management is important to minimize the impact of the disease on a person's quality of life and overall health.
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