Linear growth in children is regulated by complex interactions between the growth plate and systemic biochemical signals. In juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), chronic inflammation and proinflammatory cytokines may disrupt normal growth plate maturation through both systemic and local mechanisms. Radiographic manifestations of growth plate involvement may precede overt joint destruction and provide early diagnostic clues.
An 8-year-old girl with a four-year history of joint pain and restricted movement presented for routine follow-up. She had no systemic symptoms, and laboratory studies showed no evidence of acute inflammation. Radiography of the left hand demonstrated narrowing of the fourth proximal interphalangeal joint space with subarticular sclerosis. Magnified images revealed widening of the proximal epiphysis of the fourth middle phalanx and early epiphyseal fusion compared with adjacent digits. No periosteal reaction or soft-tissue abnormality was observed. These findings, together with the clinical and laboratory data, were consistent with juvenile idiopathic arthritis involvement, resulting in accelerated bone maturation.
In JIA, proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α can adversely affect growth plate function. Increased regional blood flow and chronic inflammation may lead to epiphyseal overgrowth or premature epiphyseal closure, which can result in growth arrest and asymmetry. Recognition of asymmetric epiphyseal maturation on imaging is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate clinical management.
Growth plate abnormalities may represent an early radiographic manifestation of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Careful assessment of epiphyseal morphology and maturation on pediatric hand radiographs can aid in identifying inflammation-related growth disturbances and help prevent long-term skeletal asymmetry.
Publication Date: 2026-06-14