Annual Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of the Rheumatic Diseases 2013

Now in its ninth year, this two-day symposium has been planned for the providers of care to patients with rheumatic diseases. Given the wide variety of rheumatologic disorders, and an ever-increasing number of diagnostic procedures and treatment options, it is necessary to provide clinicians with information about strategies for the early diagnosis of these conditions, novel state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, and opportunities to utilize the most effective treatments to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Objectives
After attending this activity, the participant will demonstrate the ability to:

Discuss treatment strategies in systemic lupus erythematosus
Review uses and techniques of imaging, MRI and ultrasound for rheumatic diseases
Discuss the use of biologic agents in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis both current and emerging
Discuss current treatment in the management of osteoarthritis
Identify major issues related to fibromyalgia
Appraise current management approaches and controversies in the diagnosis and treatment of spondyloarthropathies
Identify classification criteria for Sjogren’s Syndrome
Review current issues in the care of the pediatric patient with rheumatic disease