Rheumatology is the branch of medicine that is concerned with the diagnosis and therapy of rheumatic diseases. These encompass immune-mediated disorders of musculoskeletal system and soft tissues, vasculitides, autoimmune diseases and inherited connective tissue disorders. Diagnosis of these diseases can be done by physical examination or specialized examination. Some examples of the methods used for physical examination are multiple joint inspections, Schober's test, musculoskeletal examination such as screening musculoskeletal exam, general musculoskeletal exam and regional musculoskeletal exam. Specialized examinations include laboratory tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, and cytopathology and chemical pathology of fluid aspirated from affected joints. Rheumatic diseases are treated with monoclonal antibodies such as adalimumab and infliximab, analgesics, TNF inhibitor etanercept, etc. This book contains some path-breaking studies in the field of rheumatology. It provides significant information of this discipline to help develop a good understanding. A number of latest researches have been included in this book to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this area of study.
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