Pediatric rheumatic diseases: from early diagnosis and treatment, treat-to-target strategy to disease modification, embarking on a new journey towards disease cure
10.3760/cma.j.cn141217-20250505-00145
- VernacularTitle:儿童风湿病：从早诊早治 达标治疗到疾病修饰及治愈的新征程
- Author:
Fengqiao GAO
1
;
Shipeng LI
1
;
Caifeng LI
1
Author Information
1. 国家儿童医学中心 首都医科大学附属北京儿童医院风湿科，北京 100045
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Child;
Rheumatic diseases;
Molecular-targeted therapy;
Early diagnosis and treatment;
Disease modification;
Treat-to-target
- From:
Chinese Journal of Rheumatology
2025;29(7):529-535
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Rheumatic and auto-immune diseases in children are a group of long-lasting, on-and-off, and inflammatory diseases that affect multiple systems, causing various symptoms. In severe cases, these diseases can result in disability or even death. In the past, it was thought that these diseases could only be managed or cured without stopping medication. But now, with a better understanding of the diseases, improved treatment plans, and emergence of new drugs, it's possible to stop medications and maintenance the disease in stable condition or even cure it completely. This article described why it's essential to diagnose and treat pediatric rheumatic and auto-immune diseases early, and explained how the concept of "disease modification" (DM) has been used in this field. DM aims to change the course of the disease by intervening early, using targeted therapy, treat-to-target (T2T), and managing chronic conditions carefully. This new approach shifts from just managing the disease for life to aiming for no more flare-ups, no more chronic issues, and no more involvement of multiple systems/organs. With advancements in precision medicine and cutting-edge technologies, children with these diseases may eventually be cured, and keeping a healthy future.
