What is Pediatric Autoimmune Disease?

Pediatric autoimmune diseases are conditions where a child’s immune system mistakenly attacks their own body’s healthy cells, tissues, or organs — thinking they’re harmful invaders.

These diseases can affect many parts of the body, including the joints, skin, brain, gut, and vital organs. Symptoms vary widely depending on which area is affected.

Common Pediatric Autoimmune Diseases

1. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
   Inflammation in the joints causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.

2. Type 1 Diabetes
   The immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

3. Pediatric Lupus (SLE)
   Affects skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs.

4. PANS/PANDAS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome)
   Sudden OCD or tics after an infection (often strep).

5. Celiac Disease
   The immune system reacts to gluten, damaging the intestines.

6. Autoimmune Hepatitis, Thyroiditis, Vitiligo
   Other less common autoimmune types affecting liver, hormones, or skin pigmentation.

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Ongoing fevers with no infection

• Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness

• Extreme fatigue or weakness

• Sudden behavioral changes or tics (as in PANS/PANDAS)

• Skin rashes, mouth sores, or sun sensitivity

• Stomach pain, diarrhea, or weight loss

What Causes It?

There’s no single cause, but common factors include:

• Genetics (family history of autoimmune conditions)

• Environmental triggers (infections, stress, diet)

• Overactive or misdirected immune response

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis can be complex and may involve:

• Blood tests (e.g. ANA, inflammation markers)

• Imaging (e.g. X-rays or MRIs for joint issues)

• Specialist assessments (pediatric rheumatologists, endocrinologists, neurologists)

Treatment goals:

• Control immune activity

• Reduce inflammation

• Manage symptoms (pain, fatigue, organ damage)

• Maintain normal growth and development

Common treatments:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs

• Immunosuppressants

• Biologic therapies

• Diet and lifestyle changes

• Mental health support

Living with a Pediatric Autoimmune Disease

• Early diagnosis = better outcomes

• Many children go into remission or live full lives with good care

• Support is key: physical, emotional, educational

• Advocacy and awareness help reduce stigma and improve research

🔗 Support Resources

• Arthritis Foundation – Kids Get Arthritis Too

• Lupus Foundation of America

• JDRF – Type 1 Diabetes

• PANDAS Network

• Local pediatric hospitals and chronic illness support groups