Rheumatology
Renown Rheumatology's Comprehensive Approach to Rheumatic Diseases
The board-certified rheumatologists at Renown Rheumatology provide state-of-the art care for a wide range of autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, Sjogren syndrome, vasculitis, gout, and many more. We use the most advanced evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic measures to restore health and enhance well-being.
Common Diagnostic Studies Used in the Evaluation of Rheumatic Diseases
- RF (Rheumatoid Factor): Confers nonspecific risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
- ACPA (Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibody): Confers specific risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
- ANA (Anti-Nuclear Antibody): Confers nonspecific risk of connective tissue disease.
- ANCA (Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody): Confers risk of small vessel vasculitis.
- APLA (Anti-Phospholipid Antibody): Confers risk of antiphospholipid syndrome.
- C3 and C4 (Complement proteins 3 and 4): Low levels suggest active disease in lupus or related autoimmune diseases.
- UPCR (Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio): High levels suggest active lupus nephritis or small vessel vasculitis.
- Uric acid: Elevated in people with gout but may be low during acute gout attack.
- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate): Nonspecific indicator of chronic inflammation.
- CRP (C-Reactive Protein): Nonspecific indicator of acute inflammation.
- CBC (Complete Blood Count): Used to assess the effects of autoimmune diseases and immunosuppressive medications on bone marrow function.
- CMP (Complete Metabolic Profile): Used to assess the effects of autoimmune diseases and immunosuppressive medications on kidney and liver functions.
- HLA-B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27): Confers risk of spondyloarthropathy.
- HLA-B51 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B51): Confers risk of Behcet’s disease.
- Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Used at point of care to assess joint inflammation, guide joint injection or joint fluid aspiration.
- XR: Used to assess joint damage from inflammation or wearing over time.
- CT or MRI: Used to assess joint, muscle, and blood vessel inflammation which are not visualizable on plain XR.
- Synovial Fluid Cytology: Used to test for crystals and blood cells in inflamed joints.
- Synovial Fluid Gram Stain and Culture: Used to test for infection in inflamed joints.
Rheumatic Diseases and Conditions Evaluated by Rheumatologists
Related Providers
Educational Resources
Common Medications Used for the Treatment of Rheumatic Diseases
Go to the American College of Rheumatology website to learn about the common medications used for the treatment of rheumatic diseases.
Educational Videos for Patients with Rheumatic Diseases
View educational videos on the American College of Rheumatology website regarding various issues surrounding rheumatic diseases and living with them.
Related Articles
Why Is My Hair Falling Out? Alopecia Explained
© MikeSaran via Canva.com
Read More — Why Is My Hair Falling Out? Alopecia Explained
Get Moving: How to Exercise with Arthritis
An arthritis diagnosis doesn’t mean your exercise routine has to end. In fact, a consistent routine can actually improve mobility. Although stiff and painful joints can make it difficult to keep moving, staying active is essential for easing pain. October 11 is World Arthritis Day, so we asked Michelle Higgins, MPT at Renown Physical Therapy & Rehab some advice about exercising with arthritis.
Read More — Get Moving: How to Exercise with Arthritis