This process could eventually affect the cartilage and underlying bone. Research is ongoing to further define these types of white blood cells and the chemicals that are being released into the tissues and fluid. The rest of the body is also affected by the inflammation. Patients with JRA are usually tired or fatigued. This is part of the effect on the entire body.
Some patients also have fevers, rashes, lymph node enlargement, and weight problems.
Occasionally, other parts of the body such as the kidneys, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, or heart may be affected by the inflammation. This is not common, but the doctors will still check for it. Some patients are at higher risk for inflammation in the front of the eye, called the anterior chamber. This inflammation in the eye is called uveitis or iritis. The exact cause of JRA is unknown.