Experience with a juvenile rheumatology clinic.

A dedicated monthly clinic for children with rheumatic diseases was established in order to cater for the increasing number of referrals to a rheumatology department for assessment and management. The clinic was staffed by a consultant rheumatologist, registrar, nurse, physiotherapist and occupational therapist. Seventy-four children, 44 girls and 30 boys, were assessed during the first 32 months. The mean age at referral was 10 years (range 2-15). Thirty-three had juvenile chronic arthritis. Other disease categories included dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus and reactive arthritis. Twenty-eight children were referred by general practitioners and 26 by paediatricians. Hospital admission was required by 24. These observations suggest the need in Ireland for a coordinated service for children with rheumatic diseases.