Adult Rheumatology Elective

Catalog description

This course provides exposure to concepts utilized in the diagnosis and management of rheumatic diseases in adults. MED 748 Adult Rheumatology Elective (5)This course is designed to introduce fourth year medical students to the basics of evaluation and management of adults with musculoskeletal disease with an emphasis on diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory and non inflammatory arthritis. This primarily outpatient experience will build on the concepts presented during the second year didactic course in MSK medicine that dealt with rheumatology topics as well as the Island I MSK portion which utilized physical diagnosis skills related to musculoskeletal joint evaluation. Students on this elective will serve as an integral part of the team and will be the first contact with returning and new patients in the outpatient clinic setting having had a chance to interact one on one with patients in order to practice history taking and exam skills. Students will then present the information to the attending physician where management and treatment options will be discussed. Pertinent physical exam and radiographic findings will be noted and technique for joint aspiration and injection will be demonstrated in the appropriate patients. Students will be expected to demonstrate evidence of independent reading on rheumatology topics and preparation of case based presentations for weekly conferences. Opportunities for interested students to participate in pediatric rheumatology clinics are also available during this time. The overall goal of this elective is to allow students to attain the basic skills and knowledge necessary for the initial evaluation and diagnostic work up of common presenting musculoskeletal complaints in the primary care outpatient and in-patient settings. Emphasis will be placed on pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, physical exam findings and management options as well as the essential portions of the history and physical exam. Students will be encouraged to practice their musculoskeletal exam skills under supervision in order to become proficient by the end of the four week elective. Evaluation methods will include a pre-test and post-test as well as subjective evaluation of students' fund of knowledge and patient care skills by the attending rheumatology faculty. This course will be offered throughout the entire academic year.