Juvenile spondyloarthritis (JSpA) is a type of childhood arthritis (juvenile idiopathic arthritis) that affects the joints and spine, leading to long-term pain and disability. Diagnosis is often delayed because there are no reliable tests to detect the disease early, leading worse long-term outcomes. While inheriting the HLA-B27 gene increases the risk of JSpA, it remains unclear why some children develop the disease, while others with the same gene do not.

We believe that certain immune cells, called CD8+ T cells, play a key role in JSpA. In this study, we will examine these immune cells in children with JSpA and compare them to healthy family members who share the same genetics (HLA-B27). We will use a new technique that we developed to detect these disease-causing T cells. This will allow us to identify differences in the immune system that may serve as early warning signs of JSpA. By finding a new way to diagnose this disease sooner, we hope to improve early treatment and long-term health outcomes for children with JSpA.