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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffAdult Still's disease is a rare type of arthritis that features a sore throat, a salmon-colored rash and a high fever that spikes once or twice a day. Joint pain tends to develop a few weeks after these initial signs and symptoms.
The cause of adult Still's disease is unknown, but researchers are investigating the possibility that it might be triggered by some type of infection. Some people experience just one episode of adult Still's disease. In other people, the condition persists or recurs.
Adult Still's disease is an inflammatory type of arthritis, similar to rheumatoid arthritis. This inflammation can destroy affected joints, particularly the wrists. Treatment involves medications, such as prednisone, that help control inflammation.
- Papadakis MA, et al. Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2013. 52nd ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2013. http://www.accessmedicine.com/resourceTOC.aspx?resourceID=1. Accessed Feb. 8, 2013.
- Mandl LA, et al. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of adult Still's disease. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Feb. 8, 2013.
- Mandl LA, et al. Treatment of adult Still's disease. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Feb. 8, 2013.
- Chang-Miller A (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Phoneix/Scottsdale, Ariz. Feb. 15, 2013.
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