Rheumatology Program
A rheumatologic condition is one of many systemic (whole body) inflammatory diseases that may affect the skin, joints, muscles and internal organs. While the underlying causes of rheumatologic conditions are not entirely understood, we do know that rheumatologic diseases are typically autoimmune in nature. This means that the body's immune system attacks itself. As a result of the immune system dysfunction, widespread inflammation can result. Treatment of these systemic autoimmune diseases often relies on immune-suppressing medications.
Over the last several years many new therapies for inflammatory rheumatologic diseases have been made available, and we are focused on finding the best therapeutic program for every patient. Rheumatologic diseases can be serious and the medications to treat them have benefits and potential for causing harm (toxicity), so rheumatologists are best suited to offer advice and therapy for patients with these diseases.
Conditions We Treat
Our rheumatologists see patients with a variety of rheumatologic diseases, however, we focus on patients with the following diseases:
We also see patients with other types of arthritis particularly when requested by our physician colleagues.
Many rheumatologic diseases affect more than just the musculoskeletal system. These diseases may affect the lungs, the kidneys, the brain, the heart, the eyes ears nose and throat, skin, and the gut. We therefore must treat the entire patient.
Autoimmune Lung Center
Learn about the Autoimmune Lung Center, which offers specific expertise within the spectrum of rheumatologic-associated lung diseases and provides patients with a unique, cross-specialty approach to care.
Current Research
Through clinical research we are helping discover which medications might be best for patients with many diseases. We are also investigating new therapies which may be released in the future. Many of our diseases are related to problems with the immune system, and many of the new therapies are directed toward helping correct these subtle abnormalities. We are particularly interested in these types of problem and we are relentless in the
Related Programs
