Rheumatology: A Clinical Approach

Rheumatology is a branch of medicine, which is concerned with the diagnosis, and treatment of rheumatic diseases. There are more than 200 different types of rheumatic diseases, such as osteoporosis, arthritis, back pain, gout, lupus, etc. A significant focus of this field lies in the treatment of immune-mediated disorders of the musculoskeletal system, autoimmune diseases, vasculitides and soft tissue. Rheumatology may also be assumed to be the study of medical immunology. Physical examination and specialized tests including X-rays, ultrasounds, rheumatoid factor test, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, cytopathology, etc. are performed for the diagnosis of rheumatic diseases. After diagnosis, their treatment strategy comprises of a prescription of analgesics, steroids, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, monoclonal antibodies or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Corrective interventions such as arthrodesis, removal of cartilage fragments or loose bone, joint replacements, etc. can also be performed for improving function, soothing pain and limiting disease activity. This book provides comprehensive insights into the field of rheumatology. There has been rapid progress in the understanding of rheumatic diseases, their diagnoses and treatments, which have been included in this extensive book. It is an essential guide for both academicians and those who wish to pursue this discipline further.