Rheumatology: Principles and Practice

Rheumatology is a specialization in medicine that deals with musculoskeletal immune-mediated disorders, soft tissue conditions, autoimmune diseases and heritable connective tissue disorders. Physical examination for the diagnosis of rheumatic diseases involves multiple joint-inspection, Schober's test, along with general, regional and screening musculoskeletal exams. Laboratory tests such as anti-CCP, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, ANA, etc. combined with X-ray and ultrasound imaging of affected joints aid in making a correct diagnosis. Treatment of rheumatic diseases is customized to suit individual needs of each patient. Apart from medications that address pain, inflammation and other symptoms, physiotherapy is key to rheumatic disease management. Various surgical interventions are also devised by integrating orthopedics with rheumatology for enhanced function, pain relief and reduced disease activity. This book traces the progress in the field of rheumatology and highlights some of its key principles and practices. The various advancements in the understanding of rheumatic diseases are glanced at and their implications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. Students, researchers, rheumatologists, experts and all associated with this area of research will benefit alike from this book.