Which diagnosis is associated with positive ANA and uveitis in children under 16?

• A. Rheumatoid arthritis
• B. Systemic lupus erythematosus
• C. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
• D. Juvenile dermatomyositis

Answer: (C)

A child with joint inflammation who is ANA-positive and has uveitis points most strongly to juvenile idiopathic arthritis, particularly the oligoarticular form. ANA positivity is common in JIA, and this subtype carries a higher risk of chronic anterior uveitis, which can be asymptomatic early on, making regular eye exams essential. The other diseases listed are less likely to present with this same combination in children: rheumatoid arthritis is rare in kids and uveitis isn’t a defining feature; systemic lupus erythematosus can have ANA but uveitis is not the hallmark; juvenile dermatomyositis centers on skin and muscle involvement rather than uveitis. So the pattern best fits juvenile idiopathic arthritis.