Age-specific incidence of joint disease in paediatric patients with haemophilia: A single-centre real-world outcome based on consecutive US examination

Abstract

Introduction: Joint health is one of the most important factors contributing to a healthy life in patients with haemophilia. Recent study revealed that starting early prophylaxis was not enough to prevent joint disease in most paediatric patients with haemophilia. Aim: In this study, we aimed to determine the age-specific incidence of acute joint disease during childhood at single haemophilia treatment centre (HTC). Method: The joint health in 48 patients was evaluated based on consecutive US testing for 5 years at annual multidisciplinary comprehensive care. Results: During the study period, 23 patients (47.9%) had no joint disease since the initial examination, whereas 13 patients (27.0%) showed development from negative to positive findings. The incidence of joint disease increased with age: 0% in preschool, 5.3% in elementary school, 14.3% in junior high school and 35% beyond high school age. Among the 13 patients who developed joint disease, two experienced acquired synovitis that resolved during the follow-up period. Statistical analysis revealed that the patients who routinely underwent follow-up by the HTC exhibited a significantly lower incidence of joint disease than did those followed up at other institutions (p