Geriatric rheumatology
Geriatric Rheumatology
Geriatric rheumatology (pronunciation: /dʒɛrɪˈætrɪk ruːməˈtɒlədʒi/) is a sub-specialty of rheumatology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases in elderly patients. The term is derived from the Greek words geron meaning "old man" and rheumatismos meaning "to suffer from a flux."
Overview
Geriatric rheumatology is concerned with the management of rheumatic conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, lupus, and gout in older adults. These conditions often present differently in this population due to the physiological changes associated with aging and the presence of comorbidities.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis in geriatric rheumatology often involves a comprehensive patient history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests such as blood tests, X-rays, and MRI scans. The diagnostic process can be complicated by the presence of other age-related conditions and the atypical presentation of rheumatic diseases in the elderly.
Treatment
Treatment in geriatric rheumatology aims to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. This often involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Medications used may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
Related Terms
- Rheumatology: The branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases.
- Geriatrics: The branch of medicine focused on health promotion and the prevention and treatment of disease and disability in later life.
- Arthritis: A group of diseases characterized by inflammation of the joints.
- Osteoporosis: A condition characterized by a decrease in the density of bone, decreasing its strength and resulting in fragile bones.
- Lupus: A chronic autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body.
- Gout: A form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by recurrent attacks of a red, tender, hot, and swollen joint.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Geriatric rheumatology
- Wikipedia's article - Geriatric rheumatology
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