Final answer:
For diagnosing Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA), rheumatologists often use X-ray and MRI imaging. Additionally, arthrography may be employed for a more detailed view of soft tissue structures within the joints.
Step-by-step explanation:
In patients with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA), rheumatologists may utilize a combination of imaging studies to assess joint inflammation and damage. The standard radiographs for diagnosing JRA include X-ray and MRI imaging to view the joints and detect structural changes, such as bone erosion and joint space narrowing. For more detailed examination, arthrography may be used, a type of medical imaging that involves injecting a contrast agent into the joint spaces to visualize soft tissue structures like cartilage, tendons, and ligaments more clearly. This procedure can reveal early degenerative changes in joint cartilage before the bones are affected, which is vital for managing JRA effectively.