Rheumatology Conditions We Treat
Rheumatology Conditions
At UChicago Medicine, we provide the most advanced care for rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. Our physicians are involved in critical research on these diseases, looking at genetic and biochemical markers. Knowledge of rheumatic diseases is growing, and better treatments are becoming available that can improve quality of life while limiting pain and other symptoms.
More than 100 rheumatic and autoimmune diseases exist, and many can be difficult to diagnose and manage. Our regionally and nationally respected rheumatologists provide care for these conditions and many others:
- Dermatomyositis and polymyositis
- Immunotherapy-related adverse events
- Interstitial lung disease
- Lupus
- Raynaud's phenomenon
- Rheumatoid and seronegative arthritis
- Scleroderma
- Vasculitis
What to expect during your visit to the rheumatology clinic
Whether we see you in-person or virtually, we want your appointment to go as smoothly as possible, and we want to help prepare you for your visit.
Most patients seen by a rheumatologist are referred by either their primary care provider or another doctor who is providing specialty care. Make sure that this provider has sent us a referral, your records, X-rays and any other reports or studies.
Bring a list of your medications or the medications themselves.
If you have X-rays, CT scans or MRI images on a disc, please bring these to your appointment.
Set up a UChicago Medicine MyChart account. Here you can ask additional questions and send us pictures or other records you may want to share ahead of your appointment. We also use MyChart after your appointment to communicate with you. If you have MyChart accounts at other hospitals, these can be linked.
Once we know your diagnosis, we can start treatment.
Sometimes, determining a diagnosis can take more than one visit. We also may need additional tests or help from other specialists to determine how best to help you. If you need to schedule another visit, one of our care team members can help you. You may also call 773-702-6119 or log in to MyChart to make an appointment.
It takes 7 to 10 days for all the tests results to come in. While you may receive results sooner, please wait at least 10 days before asking to discuss results with your provider.
After your visit, your primary care provider and/or the provider who referred you will get a copy of our notes with the details of your visit. It is important that the primary care provider remain the main resource for your medical care. If you do not have a primary care provider, we can help you find one.
The rheumatology clinic has many ongoing research studies. If you are eligible for a study, we will ask if you are interested in hearing more about it from a research coordinator. Research studies are voluntary, and you will receive the same excellent quality of care whether or not you participate. Participating in research may help you and others who have rheumatic diseases.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment time to check in and be ready for the doctor.
Your first visit with us may last one to two hours. It will include a history of your illness, family history and a physical exam. It also may include blood and urine tests, ultrasound and X-rays.
For non-urgent issues, sending a MyChart message is the best way to ask your question. You also may call 773-702-6119 with questions or concerns.
Call 773-702-6119 or log in to MyChart to schedule a return visit, or to cancel or reschedule an appointment.
If you are more than 20 minutes late for your appointment, we will ask you to reschedule.