Risk of arthritis in children with Down syndrome higher than previously reported

As for who should conduct such an assessment, Dr. Foley suggested that general pediatricians who are regularly seeing these children for other health checks should perform it. However, as one delegate observed, nonrheumatology professionals may need a little training and guidance, as musculoskeletal assessments can be difficult. Looking only at the hands, and potentially the feet, may be one solution.

The study has raised a number of questions and future research will be needed to further characterize the arthritis and to determine how best to diagnose and treat it, noted Dr. Foley, who indicated that she had no conflicts of interest.