Rheumatology Services

• Rheumatology is the specialty of medicine that includes arthritis and autoimmune diseases
• Arthritis means inflammation of a joint
• A joint is where two or more bones meet and move in relation to each other
• They are separated by a rubbery substance called cartilage which is smooth and slippery, allowing for easy movement
• Cartilage covers the end of each bone
• Tendons and ligaments attach bones to muscles and other bones
• Cartilage, tendons and ligaments are enclosed within a membrane around the joint which releases a fluid into the joint space to keep it well lubricated
• Autoimmune disease is where an abnormality in the immune system leads to the body’s defence harming its own cells by mistake
• A rheumatologist is a doctor who has specialised in this area of medicine

• Your GP will refer a patient to see a rheumatologist if they think the patient has 
• an autoimmune disorder or 
• if they need assistance diagnosing or treating arthritis  

Locations

• North Shore Hospital
  Ph (09) 486 8900