Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation, pain, swelling and stiffness. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can reduce inflammation and help prevent joint damage. Management may include disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, targeted therapies, physiotherapy and regular monitoring of disease activity.
Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory condition primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints. Symptoms commonly include persistent back pain and morning stiffness. Treatment may involve physical exercise, anti-inflammatory medication and biologic therapy in selected patients to reduce inflammation and maintain mobility.
Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory joint disorder associated with psoriasis. It may cause joint pain, swelling, stiffness and inflammation around tendons. Management depends on the severity of joint and skin involvement and may include anti-inflammatory medicines, disease-modifying drugs, biologic therapies and rehabilitation.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells and other organs. Treatment depends on organ involvement and disease severity. Management may include hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids, immunosuppressive medicines and long-term monitoring for complications.
Vasculitis refers to a group of disorders characterised by inflammation of blood vessels. Symptoms and complications depend on the vessels and organs affected. Evaluation may involve blood tests, imaging or biopsy. Treatment often requires immunosuppressive medication and careful monitoring of organ function.
Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune connective tissue disease that can cause skin thickening, vascular abnormalities and internal organ involvement. Treatment focuses on specific symptoms and complications. Monitoring may include assessment of lung, heart, kidney and gastrointestinal function, depending on the patient's clinical condition.
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder commonly associated with dry eyes and dry mouth. Some patients also develop joint symptoms or systemic complications. Treatment depends on the organs affected and may include symptom-relieving therapies, dental and eye care, and medication for inflammatory manifestations.
Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory disease that may cause muscle weakness and characteristic skin changes. Evaluation can include muscle enzyme testing, imaging and other investigations. Treatment often involves corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medicines, with rehabilitation and monitoring for associated complications.
Mixed connective tissue disease is an autoimmune condition with overlapping features of lupus, systemic sclerosis and inflammatory muscle disease. Symptoms may involve joints, muscles, skin and internal organs. Treatment depends on the particular manifestations and may require medication, symptom management and ongoing monitoring.
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that can affect the lungs, lymph nodes, skin, eyes and other organs. Some patients require observation alone, while others need medication to control inflammation. Assessment includes determining the extent of organ involvement and excluding other possible causes.
Women with autoimmune rheumatic disorders may require specialist evaluation before and during pregnancy. Disease activity, medication safety and previous pregnancy complications are important considerations. Rheumatology and obstetric teams work together to assess risks and develop an individualised management plan for maternal and fetal health.