Rheumatology

Rheumatology is a discipline of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and management of  autoimmune mediated conditions of the muskeloskeletal system (rheumatism)  and systemic autoimmune diseases. Rheumatic conditions affect joints, bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and muscles. Autoimmune diseases involve a self destructive inflammatotory process that leads to damage of one's tissues and / or organs. These include skin, joints, blood vessels, heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, brain, gut, eyes, etc.There is a multitude of symptoms and signs associated with these autoimmune conditions as any part of the body can be affected. Here are some of the signs of autoimmune and rheumatic conditions. 

Autoimmune conditions have no cure however we aim to control the symptoms, have our patients in remission or a state of low disease activity and thus preserve organs.

We use immune suppressing drugs to control the symptoms of these diseases. There are various types and classes of immunosuppressants  that we use. Treatment strategies are based on the SARAA guidelines and ACR/EULAR guidelines.

If one is diagnosed with an autoimmune disease the condition is registered as a chronic condition with one's medical aid . The medical funders will either fully or partially fund one's treament depending on the medical aid plan.(see some of the autoimmune conditions).

To aid in diagnosis and holistic management of these autoimmune conditions we work in collaboration with various specialists e.g. physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, dieticians and other medical specialists.

In some unfortunate cases the condition may result in irreversable organ damage and one my be rendered unable to perfom their vocational duties. We will assist with application for disability cover in cases where one is insured for such. (Our Services)