Understanding the Role of Rheumatologists in Autoimmune and Joint Diseases
By Dr. Jane B. Ayala, FACR and Dr. Thomas A. Rennie, FACR Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology
Rheumatologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing autoimmune diseases and complex joint disorders. While they are often associated with arthritis, their expertise covers a much broader spectrum of conditions that can affect multiple organs and systems throughout the body.
When the Immune System Misfires
Normally, your immune system protects you from harmful invaders like viruses and bacteria. In autoimmune diseases, however, the system malfunctions. Instead of attacking infections, it mistakenly damages your body’s own tissues.
This immune misfire causes inflammation and tissue damage that may affect:
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Joints
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Skin
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Kidneys
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Lungs
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Heart
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Eyes
That’s why rheumatologists are far more than “arthritis doctors.” Autoimmune diseases are systemic, meaning they can impact nearly any part of the body.
Conditions Managed by Rheumatologists
Autoimmune Diseases
Rheumatologists manage many systemic autoimmune diseases, including:
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Lupus
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Rheumatoid arthritis
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Psoriatic arthritis
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Sjögren’s syndrome
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Vasculitis (e.g., granulomatosis with polyangiitis, microscopic polyangiitis, giant cell arteritis)
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Myositis
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Systemic sclerosis
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Ankylosing spondylitis
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Polymyalgia rheumatica
Other Joint and Musculoskeletal Disorders
Beyond autoimmune disease, rheumatologists also treat:
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Gout
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Tendinitis
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Bursitis
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Other musculoskeletal conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility
Even when these conditions are not autoimmune, they fall under rheumatology because they involve joint health and inflammation.
How Rheumatologists Diagnose Disease
Diagnosis in rheumatology is like detective work. Many autoimmune conditions look similar and share overlapping symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and muscle weakness.
To find answers, rheumatologists combine:
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Detailed medical history
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Physical examination
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Laboratory testing
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Imaging studies
No single test gives a full answer — it’s the combination of findings that helps build a complete picture of a patient’s condition.
When Should You See a Rheumatologist?
Consider seeing a rheumatologist if you experience:
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Persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
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Unexplained muscle weakness or fatigue
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Symptoms of autoimmune disease (rashes, dry eyes, dry mouth, mouth ulcers)
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A family history of autoimmune disease plus new symptoms
At your first visit, you can expect:
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A comprehensive discussion of your symptoms
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A careful examination of your joints and mobility
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Initial blood tests or imaging, if needed
The Goal: Clarity, Relief, and Control
Rheumatologists play a vital role in helping patients:
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Calm an overactive immune system
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Preserve joint function
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Prevent organ damage
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Regain quality of life
Your rheumatologist is both a medical investigator and a long-term partner in managing chronic and systemic conditions. Their ultimate goal is to bring clarity to complex health problems and help you take control of your health.