The Safety and Efficacy of Chicken Type II Collagen on Uveitis Associated With Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Must meet American College of Rheumatology Criteria for JRA. Must have active anterior uveitis defined as the presence of inflammatory cells in the anterior chamber in at least one eye, or the current use of topical corticosteroids. Must be between 2 and 18 years of age, inclusive. Must have had previous therapy for uveitis. Must be able to undergo a slit lamp biomicroscopy for assessment of anterior chamber cells. Must not have a media opacity that precludes assessment of anterior chamber inflammation. Must not have received a periocular injection of corticosteroids within 2 months of baseline. Must not be currently receiving DMARD (disease modifying anti-rheumatic) therapy, with the exception of prednisone at a dose no greater than 1.5-2.0 mg/kg/day, or methotrexate at a dose no greater than 10 mg/m(2)/week. Must not have active eye or joint inflammation requiring immediate addition or increase in systemic anti-inflammatory medications. Must not have involvement in prior clinical trials of type II collagen. Must not have exposure within the past year to shark or other collagen preparations found in health food stores. Must not have a history of gastrointestinal disease which could affect the presentation of type II collagen. Women must not be pregnant or lactating. Patients currently using Latanoprost, patients who have used Latanoprost within the last 2 weeks, or patients who are likely to need Latanoprost during the course of the study will be excluded.