What type of doctor diagnosis lupus

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Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. What kind of doctor treats lupus? It's a common question for those who may have or have been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus SLE or another form of lupus. Since most people with lupus end up seeing a number of different specialists, it can be helpful to explore the types of specialists who may be involved in your comprehensive medical care. Typically, lupus is treated by rheumatologists.

Rheumatologists are internists or pediatricians or both that specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other diseases of the joints, muscles, and bones, as well as certain autoimmune diseases , including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. In the United States, rheumatologists for adults are first board-certified in internal medicine, a program that requires at least three years of medical residency after medical school.

This is followed by a fellowship for two years in rheumatology after which they may become board certified in rheumatology. Most of the time you will have a team of physicians and therapists who will help you control the symptoms of your disease as well as its limitations.

All of these specialists may play specific roles in managing your disease, but it's often your rheumatologist who acts the quarterback, so to speak—the one who coordinates the care given by your entire healthcare team, making sure that all of your concerns are being addressed and that there are no interactions between the medications and other treatments provided. Your rheumatologist is usually the person you will call if you have any questions or concerns, as well as the person who will help to connect you with other specialists who can help you care for specific aspects of your disease.

Studies have found that people who have good patient-physician communication not only feel more empowered in their care but may have better outcomes as well. Knowing this, it's very important to find a rheumatologist you feel comfortable talking to and who you can communicate well with. If your primary care doctor suspects you have lupus, you will be referred to a rheumatologist.

The rheumatologist will take a thorough history of your symptoms and do a physical exam looking for the signs and symptoms of lupus. They will also run blood tests to check for indications of lupus. The first blood test a rheumatologist will conduct to check for lupus is called an antinuclear antibody ANA test.

This test looks for autoantibodies to nuclei in cells. Autoantibodies are antibodies similar to those you would develop after a viral infection or in response to a vaccine, but with lupus, these antibodies are instead directed at some of your own cells. Legislative Successes. Spread Awareness. Get Local Support. Join Our Support Community. Shareable Toolkit. Sign Up for Emails. Tell Your Story. Media Relations. Contact Us. Annual Report.

National Lupus Partners Network. What doctors look for to confirm a diagnosis. Was this resource helpful? Yes No. Diagnosing lupus , Doctors and appointments. Medically reviewed: July 25, More about diagnosing lupus. The website allows you to find ACR members by zip code or city. You can find a Dermatologist through the American Academy of Dermatology click here. Should I get a second opinion? Since there is no single test for lupus, diagnosis is ultimately symptom diagnosed.

For a second opinion, we suggest you see either a Rheumatologist or a Dermatologist. If you need more assistance finding a physician for a second opinion, please contact us at info lupusil.

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