Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology
Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders related to the immune system and musculoskeletal system. Rheumatologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in this field and work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized rheumatology centers.
The immune system plays a crucial role in protecting the body from infections and diseases. Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology hospitals are specialized medical centers that provide comprehensive care for patients with autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. These hospitals have dedicated departments or units staffed by rheumatologists, immunologists, and other healthcare professionals with expertise in this field.
In rheumatology and clinical immunology hospitals, healthcare professionals evaluate patients, perform diagnostic tests, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s specific condition. They diagnose and manage a wide range of disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, vasculitis, gout, Sjögren’s syndrome, and other autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Rheumatology and clinical immunology hospitals offer various services to patients with these conditions. These may include comprehensive physical examinations, laboratory tests to assess inflammation and autoantibodies, imaging studies (such as X-rays and MRIs), joint aspirations, and synovial biopsies when necessary. These hospitals also provide treatments such as medications (including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and biologic therapies), pain management, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
In addition to the treatment of rheumatic and autoimmune conditions, rheumatology and clinical immunology hospitals focus on patient education and self-management. They provide resources, counseling, and support to help patients understand their condition, manage symptoms, and make lifestyle changes that can improve their quality of life. These hospitals may also offer specialized clinics for specific conditions or multidisciplinary care involving other specialties such as orthopedics, dermatology, and nephrology.