HOW SHOULD PEDIATRIC RHEUMATOLOGY BE DELIVERED

In all forms of rheumatic disease in childhood, early and accurate dia gnosis is essential. The aims of therapy in juvenile arthritis are pai n relief and the preservation of joint function while maintaining norm al growth and psychological development. As management is complex it w ill require a coordinated, multi-disciplinary team in which good commu nication between all members is a priority. Many families will need so me form of counselling, whether it be from a social worker, the paedia trician involved, or a psychologist. This is particularly important in adolescence, whether the disease has commenced at this time or whethe r the child has gone into adolescence with a chronic illness.