Transition as an Urgent and Shared Task of Pediatric and Adult Rheumatology

Rheumatic diseases that initially manifest in childhood may potentially remain active into adulthood and have a significant impact on physical, functional, and social outcome. Most patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis require long-term treatment and, therefore, would benefit from planned transition processes in terms of prognosis and outcome. The best point in time for transition depends on the individual patient. All patients-depending on their motivation and development-should have the opportunity for shared decision-making regarding the start of transition. The severity of disease, self-efficacy, and adherence to treatment may also influence the best time for transfer to adult rheumatologists.