Rheumatologists study and treat autoimmune disorders affecting joints and connective tissues, in concert with primary care physicians. Rheumatologists complete three years of rheumatology training after four years of medical school and three years of pediatric or internal medicine training.

The Facts

Rheumatic disorders are autoimmune diseases that attack the body with its own immune response. While rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are well known, there are over 100 autoimmune disorders.

Symptoms

A chronic fever, weight loss and stiffness lasting for hours after waking may point to rheumatoid inflammation. Intermittent symptoms are not unusual. Consider seeing a rheumatologist if you have tender, painful, swollen joints or red, puffy hands with joint pain.

Diagnosis

The rheumatologist looks for evidence of systemic inflammation with blood tests or in tissue samples. Since autoimmune diseases can change their behavior, your regular doctor will consult with the rheumatologist once your test results are available. Your doctor's treatment plan is based on the rheumatologist's findings.

Treatments

According to the American College of Rheumatology, a rheumatologist may prescribe genetically engineered medications (biologics) for rheumatoid arthritis. He may prescribe a disease modifying medication (hydroxychloroquine or azathioprine) or an immunosuppressive drug (mycophenolate mofetil) for lupus.

Cost

Seeing a rheumatologist may save time and money, providing a diagnosis and specialized treatments for chronic pain, lethargy and swollen joints when a generalist (internist or pediatrician) cannot.

Source:

American College of Rheumatology, Patient Education-Medications

More Information:

Lab Tests Online, Autoimmune Disorders

Federal Drug Administration, Information on Rheumatology Therapeutics

American College of Rheumatology, Mycophenolate