The autoimmune rheumatic diseases – an introduction

• Autores: Ruth Tarzi, Ian Giles
• Localización: Medicine, ISSN-e 1357-3039, Vol. 42, Nº. 3, 2014, págs. 119-120
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • The autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) form a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by dysregulation of the immune system leading to autoimmune tissue injury. These conditions present challenges both in terms of diagnosis and management. However, a better understanding of pathogenesis, newer diagnostic markers and the availability of targeted biological treatments have improved the outlook for patients. Moving forwards, the importance of disease registries and rare disease groups, bringing together specialists to study these conditions and organize multi-centre trials, has been recognized. As most of these conditions are chronic, management of general health, including cardiovascular risk factors is also an important aspect of management. We are delighted to introduce 12 complementary articles written by opinion leaders in these conditions covering the diverse spectrum of ARDs that physicians are likely to encounter in routine practice, with practical guidance on diagnosis and management as well as mention of exciting new developments.