The history of Still's disease, also known as systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA), dates back to the late 19th century. In 1896, George Frederic Still, a British pediatrician, first described the condition in a lecture to the Royal College of Physicians in London. He described several cases of young children suffering from fevers, arthritis, and rash. His observations, which reflected an inflammatory condition, were later used to identify the condition now known as SJIA.
Since the initial discovery, there have been several advances in the understanding of Still's disease. In the 1960s, researchers identified that the condition is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body's immune system attacks its own healthy tissue and organs. In the 1970s, research revealed that SJIA is caused by the body's production of an excessive amount of inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins that cause inflammation.
In the 1980s and 1990s, researchers began to identify several distinct forms of SJIA and found that the condition is associated with other autoimmune conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, researchers identified the presence of a specific type of antibody, known as antinuclear antibodies, in patients with Still's disease.
Today, researchers are continuing to better understand the condition and are exploring new treatments for SJIA. New medications, such as biologic drugs, are being used to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. In addition, lifestyle changes such as physical therapy, diet, and exercise are being used to help manage the condition.