Effects of Juvenile Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies on Growth, Development, and Maturation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective The purpose of this review is to assess the effects of JIIM on growth and pubertal development. Methods A systematic review was conducted by searching EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed®, PsycINFO, Cochrane, and Web of Science to identify studies published in English from inception to December 2024. Data were extracted regarding puberty- and development-related outcomes. Meta-analyses were conducted for outcomes measured consistently across studies, using the R package metafor (Version 3.4-0). Results Of 5,838 identified unique records, 24 were included. Inter-rater reliability for abstract and full-text screening was Κ=0.93 and Κ=1.0, respectively. Eighteen articles discussed growth (14/18 demonstrated decreased height or growth failure). Meta-analysis of 7 studies noted the overall prevalence of growth failure is 17.9%, 95% C.I. [10.7-25.0]. Five articles reported delays of secondary sex characteristics or puberty. Five articles discussed age of menarche onset; 4 reported delays and one did not. Conclusion JIIM can cause several deleterious effects on development including growth failure. The impact of hormonal changes or delayed puberty has been less well studied. Endocrine abnormalities should be actively screened for and treated. Additional research is needed to assess long-term impacts.