A Diagnostic Approach to the Common Arthritic Conditions

  • Mohammed Tikly University of the Witwatersrand
Keywords: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, osteoarthritis

Abstract

A clinical approach to musculoskeletal symptoms is reviewed, with emphasis on the history and examination as the basis for diagnosis of common rheumatic disorders. A simple step-by-step clinical approach is discussed and basic investigations are discussed in the context of clinical findings. Some common clinical pitfalls in the diagnosis of rheumatic diseases are highlighted.

Author Biography

Mohammed Tikly, University of the Witwatersrand
Mohammed Tikly FRCP, PhD (Wits) Division of Rheumatology, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital & , Johannesburg Address correspondence to: Professor Mohammed Tikly Department of Medicine Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital P.O. Berstham 2013 Email:
Published
2009-06-09