Which statement best describes polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis?

Which statement best describes polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis?

• A. It affects only the lower extremity joints
• B. It typically involves five or more joints
• C. It is always accompanied by fever
• D. It is invariably asymmetric

Answer: (B)

Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis is defined by arthritis in five or more joints within the first six months of onset. This distinguishes it from forms that involve fewer joints and can affect both large and small joints, often in a symmetric pattern but not always. Fever is not a defining feature of this form; that feature points toward systemic JIA, whereas the hallmark here is multiple joint involvement.

Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis is defined by arthritis in five or more joints within the first six months of onset. This distinguishes it from forms that involve fewer joints and can affect both large and small joints, often in a symmetric pattern but not always. Fever is not a defining feature of this form; that feature points toward systemic JIA, whereas the hallmark here is multiple joint involvement.