Abatacept treatment improves health-related quality of life, pain, and sleep quality in juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients

Methods 190 JIA patients were treated with abatacept for 4 months in an open-label lead-in period (Period A). ACR Pedi 30 responders (n = 123) were then randomized 1:1 to receive abatacept or placebo for up to 6 months in a double-blind withdrawal period (Period B). HRQOL was assessed by the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ), sleep quality was measured by the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ), and pain by a 0–100 mm VAS. Mean change from baseline in each period was calculated and compared between the treatment groups (in Period B), and the change over time was examined.