Diagnostic of extraarticular rheumatism in family medicine

Abstract:

Extra-articular rheumatism is a disorder which is well knownat the family medicine offices. Most commonly it affects the fist, elbow, shoulder, foot, knee and hip. Also, it often occurs as a part of certain systemic diseases. Extraarticular rheumatism, or rheumatism of soft tissues, or rheumatic disorders of soft tissues, are non-systemic localized pathological syndromes involving the peri-articular tissues: muscles, tendons, ligaments, aponeuroses, fascia, retinacula, bursae and subcutaneous tissue. Most often, the diagnosis requires a detailed patient history and a thorough physical examination. It is important to have a good understanding of the anatomy of the predilection sites for extra-articular rheumatism and the physical signs of the most common syndromes. Patient understanding about the onset of the disease and their persistence in implementing recommendations are the most important in the treatment process.

Key words:
extra-articular rheumatism; soft tissue disorder; family doctor