Rheumatology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the study of rheumatic diseases, which are immune-mediated conditions affecting the joints, ligaments, and muscles. Rheumatic diseases are characterized by soft tissue inflammation and include immune-mediated and non-immune–mediated arthritis, seronegative spondyloarthropathies, systemic diseases with rheumatic manifestations such as lupus and vasculitides, and muscular pathologies such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and myasthenia gravis.
For optimal comprehension, the student should have a thorough understanding of the physiology of the immune system, particularly the mechanisms of humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. Moreover, basic knowledge of the histological classification of tissues is desirable.
Although not as prevalent as other diseases, rheumatic disorders are frequently encountered in clinical practice and are considered important clinical entities given that affected individuals require very specialized care and follow-up. Pharmacological treatments constitute an active research area in this field.
A competent healthcare provider should have a good understanding of the pathophysiology of these disorders and an acute eye to identify their clinical manifestations, especially in the pediatric population. Prompt recognition, timely referral, and initiation of integral care can improve outcomes in affected individuals and enhance their overall quality of life.
Learning objectives
After the completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Discuss the pathophysiology of inflammation and autoimmunity.
- Describe the epidemiology, etiology, and risk factors of common rheumatic in adult patients.
- Differentiate between types and classifications of rheumatic disorders, including inflammatory, infectious, neoplastic, and autoimmune conditions.
- Explain the pathophysiology of prevalent rheumatic conditions.
- Evaluate clinical presentations and diagnostic criteria of rheumatic conditions, including key physical examination tests.
- Interpret relevant imaging findings, particularly chest X-rays, in rheumatic conditions.
- Apply the four factors for generating differential diagnoses for joint pain.
- Evaluate biomarkers and antibody profiles used in rheumatic disease diagnosis.
- Describe comprehensive management approaches, including pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and surgical interventions.
- Explain medication mechanisms and sites of action in rheumatic disease management.
- Identify complications of rheumatic conditions and importance of timely intervention.
Course outline
- Basics of Inflammation and Autoimmunity
- General Approach to Arthritis and Joint Pain
- Connective Tissue Diseases
- Spondyloarthritides
- Non-Autoimmune Arthritis
- Vasculitides
- Miscellaneous Joint-related Disorders
