Rheumatic and autoimmune diseases

Rheumatology diagnosis

Some rheumatic and autoimmune diseases can be difficult to identify in their early stages. At Atlantic Health, our health care teams are trained to recognize the symptoms and make a correct diagnosis so that appropriate treatment can begin early.

Defining the disease is the necessary first step, without which expectations are unclear and treatment imprecise. Our board-certified rheumatologists combine detailed physical examinations, careful history and sophisticated immunologic and imaging tests to achieve a quick and accurate diagnosis.

Many of these same tests may be useful later for monitoring the disease or the effectiveness of treatments. Rheumatic and autoimmune diseases services may vary by location. Please confirm when booking an appointment. Physician services are provided through Atlantic Medical Group.

Rheumatology treatments and research

Atlantic Health offers a wide range of treatments for rheumatic and autoimmune diseases, from IV to injectable medications in pleasant and comfortable treatment environments.

Our physicians rely on cognitive skills and the development of long-term relationships with patients who often have chronic diseases. Specialists work with each patient to develop a treatment plan to maximize improvement, minimize safety concerns and reflect up-to-date knowledge. Treatment plans often combine several types of treatment and vary depending on the disease.

Therapeutic treatments

Therapeutic options may include:

• Medications
• Conventional oral and injectable medications
• Newer biologic medications (infusion treatments)
• Exercise, including physical and occupational therapy
• Diet
• Pain management methods, including cognitive and integrative therapies
• Assistive devices (splints, braces, etc.)
• Surgery

Infusion treatments

Infusion treatment plans are individually customized for patients’ needs and lifestyles, and are administered for many conditions, such as:

• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Lupus
• Osteoporosis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• And others

Our infusion suites have large reclining chairs and are staffed by caring and dedicated IV therapy-certified nurses. A physician is always on the premises during infusion treatment hours.

Since some infusions can last for several hours, it is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing and bring a sweater or small blanket, as the therapy can cause some people to feel cold.

Treatments of conditions may vary by location; please confirm when booking an appointment. Our physician services are provided through Atlantic Medical Group.

Research

During the last decade, clinical research has resulted in the development of new, more effective treatment options for many of these diseases  but much more needs to be done. Our team of health care providers continues to be actively involved in these research efforts to help identify new and improved strategies for treating rheumatic and autoimmune disorders.