Rheumatology is the subspecialty of medicine devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect muscles, ligaments, tendons, tendonitis, joints, bone and other body parts including the immune system. These diseases and disorders can range from simple overuse syndromes such as tendonitis and bursitis, to serious immunological disorders such as systemic lupus erythematous (SLE or lupus).
The immune system is a complex network of cells, antibodies, and chemical messengers that help our bodies fight off infection. Many times a disorder of the immune system will first present as joint swelling and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis, a common form of inflammatory arthritis, is actually a disorder of the immune system. Organ involvement in rheumatoid arthritis is not only limited to the joints, but can also involve the eyes, lungs, heart, and bone marrow. Arthritis can also be caused by infections or by simple wear and tear.
A rheumatologist is a physician who specializes in rheumatology. Because rheumatic disorders can affect a variety of organ systems, a rheumatologist needs a broad and well rounded education that included four years of medical school, three years of internal medicine residency and two to three years of rheumatology fellowship. Nearly ten years of training following a college education is needed to become a board eligible or certified rheumatologist.
Some of the more common and simple rheumatic diseases may be treated adequately by a primary care physician. The rheumatologist, however, can assist the family physician in the diagnosis and treatment of an arthritic disorder. Both physicians working together can lead to better and more cost effective health care. The expertise of the rheumatologist may prevent unnecessary testing and allows for more specific therapy associated with less side effects and cost.