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Open Access 01-12-2013 | Review

Imaging in rheumatology: reconciling radiology and rheumatology

Authors: Bernhard J. Tins, Robin Butler

Published in: Insights into Imaging | Issue 6/2013

Abstract

Imaging in rheumatology was in the past largely confined to radiographs of the hands and sacroiliac joints (SIJs) helping to establish the diagnosis and then monitoring disease progression. Radiographs are not very sensitive for early inflammation in inflammatory rheumatic disorders and the demand on imaging services was therefore limited. However, over the last 10–15 years new drugs and new technologies have brought new challenges and opportunities to rheumatology and radiology as specialties. New drug treatments allow more effective treatment, preventing many complications. Early diagnosis and disease monitoring has become the challenge for the rheumatologist and radiologist alike. The best possible patient outcome is only achieved if the two specialties understand each other’s viewpoint. This article reviews the role of imaging—in particular radiography, magnet resonance imaging, computer tomography, ultrasound and nuclear medicine—for the diagnosis and monitoring of rheumatological disorders, concentrating on rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory spondylarthropathies and gout.

Teaching Points

• New drugs for the treatment of inflammatory disorders has led to greatly improved outcomes.

• Imaging often allows for earlier diagnosis of inflammatory disorders.

• Early diagnosis and treatment can often prevent the development of crippling disease manifestations.

• Tailored imaging examinations are best achieved by consultation of rheumatologist and radiologist.

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Title: Imaging in rheumatology: reconciling radiology and rheumatology
Authors: Bernhard J. Tins
Robin Butler
Publication date: 01-12-2013
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Insights into Imaging / Issue 6/2013
Electronic ISSN: 1869-4101
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13244-013-0293-1

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Imaging in rheumatology: reconciling radiology and rheumatology

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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