Abstract

A RARE CASE OF ADULT ONSET STILL'S DISEASE IN A YOUNG ADULT: CLINICAL PRESENTATION AND MANAGEMENT

Nishad Anjum*, Aaron Abhishek K., Rathna K. P., K. Anusha, Dr. Chitrahasini Savanthi

ABSTRACT

Background: Adult Onset Still’s disease is a rare systemic inflammatory disorder characterized by high spiking fever, arthralgia or arthritis, sore throat, and elevated inflammatory markers. Because its clinical manifestations overlap with infectious and autoimmune diseases, diagnosis is often challenging and requires careful exclusion of other conditions. Case Presentation: A 24-year-old male presented with persistent high-grade fever for three weeks associated with generalized weakness, myalgia, sore throat, and intermittent joint pain involving the wrist and knee joints. Physical examination revealed fever, pallor, and mild hepatosplenomegaly with joint tenderness. Laboratory investigations showed anemia, fluctuating leukocytosis, elevated liver enzymes, and markedly increased serum ferritin levels (760.9 ng/mL). Lactate dehydrogenase levels were also significantly elevated. Based on clinical presentation and laboratory findings, a diagnosis of was established. Management and Outcome: The patient was treated with antipyretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and systemic corticosteroid therapy prednisolone. Supportive care and monitoring of clinical and laboratory parameters were continued throughout the hospitalization. Following treatment, the patient showed significant improvement with reduction in fever episodes and relief of joint symptoms. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of considering patients presenting with prolonged fever of unknown origin accompanied by systemic inflammatory features. Early recognition, exclusion of infectious causes, and prompt initiation of corticosteroid therapy can significantly improve patient outcomes and prevent disease-related complications.

Keywords: Adult-onset Still’s disease, Inflammatory disorder, Elevated inflammatory markers, Multisystem involvement.