Central Nervous System Involvement in Pediatric Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Case Report of Cerebellitis and Literature Review

Abstract

Autoimmune diseases are a heterogeneous group resulting from dysregulation or dysfunction of the immune system due to genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. It is common for these diseases to coexist. However, except for a single case secondary to varicella zoster virus infection, the association between juvenile idiopathic arthritis and acute cerebellitis has not been reported in the literature. A 9-year-old girl with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, initially presenting with symptoms of headache, nausea and vomiting, was diagnosed with diffuse bihemispheric acute cerebellitis by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Various tests were performed to determine the etiology of the disease. Infectious, metabolic, and autoimmune causes were excluded. This case report illustrates an ultra-rare association between juvenile idiopathic arthritis and acute cerebellitis, with a successful outcome following treatment and monitoring. There are 17 children, including our patient, who were followed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and were found to have central nervous system disorders in the literature. Cerebral vasculitis and optic neuritis were the most commonly diagnosed neurologic disorders. Biologic agents have been implicated in some cases of optic neuritis and aseptic meningitis. Prompt treatment with corticosteroids and discontinuation of suspected biologic agents leads to favorable outcomes. This literature review highlights that early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.