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Rheumatology is a field of medicine that is concerned with the diagnosis and management of rheumatic diseases. The immune-mediated disorders of the musculoskeletal system, vasculitides, autoimmune diseases and heritable connective tissue disorders are under the scope of this field. These encompass degenerative arthropathies, systemic conditions and connective tissue diseases, inflammatory arthropathies, and soft tissue rheumatism. The diagnosis of a rheumatic disease may be based on multiple joint inspection, musculoskeletal examination, Schober's test, ultrasounds, X-rays, and the chemical pathology and cytopathology of the fluid aspirated from affected joints. Rheumatic diseases are generally treated with NSAIDs, analgesics, steroids, monoclonal antibodies and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Rheumasurgical interventions may be directed at the prevention of disease progression or may be correctional interventions. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to rheumatology. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. It is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.
