Rheumatology & Immunology is a superspecialty of medicine that deals with arthritis, certain autoimmune disorders, musculoskeletal pain syndromes and immunodeficiency disorders including AIDS.
Rheumatological & Immunological diseases are a major cause of morbidity & mortality in the community, affecting all age groups. These disorders are the leading cause of disability in the developed countries like UK. Some disorders like Osteoarthritis affect more than 70% of population beyond the age of 65 years. Back pain affects 40% of the population at any time of the life.
These disorders can present with various manifestations like
Joint pains, swelling, limitation, deformities
Fatigue
Backpain
Prolonged fever
Raynaud’s (blue discoloration of fingers, toes on exposure to cold, water)
Skin rash
Photosensitivity
Recurrent oral, genital ulcers
Uveitis
Recurrent unexplained pregnancy loss
Skin thickening
Gangrene
Proximal muscle weakness
Dry eyes, dry mouth
Multisystem involvement
ILD
Glomerulonephritis
Purpura
Non healing ulcers
Mononeuritis multiplex
Thrombocytopenia
Recurrent infections
Weight loss etc.
Many of these disorders can be managed with simple & inexpensive treatment modalities now available. However owing to the dearth of qulaified Rheumatologists and the prevalent misconceptions majority of patients suffering from arthritis and various other rheumatic disorders fail to get adequate healthcare despite the significant recent advances in management of these illnesses. Contrary to what is believed arthritic illnesses consist of much more than pain and hence optimal management focuses not only on pain relief but also the pathophysiology of the disorder. The treatment of these disorders goes beyond simple pain killers and incorporates various disease modifying therapies. With the recent advances in healthcare chronic arthritis illnesses are very well treatable like other chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. With the currently available treatment modalities most of the patients are able to maintain an active, independent near normal lifestyle. Prompt diagnosis and management is crucial for optimal outcome.