When should I consider referring a patient with suspected Adult-Onset Still's Disease to a rheumatologist?

Consider referring a patient with suspected adult-onset Still's disease to a rheumatologist urgently if they present with persistent inflammatory arthritis or synovitis of unknown cause, especially if multiple joints are involved or symptoms have persisted for 3 months or more. Do not delay referral based on normal blood tests or pending results. Early specialist assessment is important to confirm diagnosis and initiate appropriate management. In primary care, avoid prescribing glucocorticoids before specialist review as they may mask key clinical features and delay diagnosis.

Adult-onset Still's disease is a systemic inflammatory condition often presenting with fever, rash, and arthritis; persistent synovitis or inflammatory arthritis should prompt referral to rheumatology for specialist assessment.