How to perform a systematic search
All medical practice and research must be evidence-based, as far as this is possible. With medical knowledge constantly growing, it has become necessary to possess a high level of information…
Ultrasound-guided injections in rheumatology: Actual knowledge on efficacy and procedures
Abstract Ultrasound allows one to detect easily joint involvement. In addition to its primary use as a diagnostic tool, ultrasound is increasingly used by rheumatologists to guide musculoskeletal interventions. The…
Becoming a musculoskeletal ultrasonographer
Over the last decade, increasing numbers of rheumatologists have incorporated musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) as a valuable diagnostic tool into their clinical practice. Some countries have established training programmes for MSUS….
When and how to perform biopsies in a patient with a (suspected) connective tissue disease
In the differential diagnostic process for rheumatic inflammatory and/or connective tissue diseases (CTDs), history taking and physical examination are of main importance, more than additional investigations, as many diagnoses are…
How to interpret plain radiographs in clinical practice
Abstract In this article I will consider the basic principles of requesting, acquiring, interpreting and reporting plain radiographs of joints, including assessment of the distribution of joint abnormalities, and specific…
How to perform and interpret capillaroscopy
Abstract The essence of capillaroscopy is to examine, noninvasively and safely the morphology of nailfold dermal papillary capillaries using a magnification system (microscopical lenses). Capillaroscopy may be performed with lenses…
How to perform and analyse synovial biopsies
Abstract Although most of the rheumatologic diseases can be diagnosed based on clinical examination combined with additional laboratory and radiographic tests, histological examination of synovial tissue may lead to the…
Developing a professional approach to work-based assessments in rheumatology
This chapter discusses how doctors in key European countries develop and maintain professional standards of clinical knowledge in their specialism, rheumatology, with particular reference to how they are assessed in…
How to perform local soft-tissue glucocorticoid injections?
Abstract Inflammation of periarticular soft-tissue structures such as tendons, tendon sheaths, entheses, bursae, ligaments and fasciae is the hallmark of many inflammatory rheumatic diseases, but inflammation or rather irritation of…
Joint aspiration and injection and synovial fluid analysis
Abstract Joint aspiration/injection and synovial fluid (SF) analysis are both invaluable procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of joint disease. This chapter addresses (1) the indications, technical principles, expected benefits…
