Pediatric Rheumatology

Overview

Yale Medicine pediatric rheumatologists at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital are dedicated to the diagnosis and management of rheumatic diseases. Our team of highly skilled physicians, nurses, and pharmacists work together to provide excellent care. Our team works closely with a variety of other pediatric specialists, as well as primary care providers, to provide coordinated and comprehensive care for our patients. We participate in multidisciplinary programs and clinical research – at Yale School of Medicine and across the country – to advance treatment and quality of life for children with rheumatic (autoimmune and autoinflammatory) diseases.

Some rheumatic disorders include:

Juvenile Dermatomyositis
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Kawasaki Disease
Lupus
Periodic Fever Syndromes
Vasculitis

Symptoms of rheumatic disorders can change frequently and vary depending on your child’s diagnosis. Symptoms may include:

Joint pain and swelling
Multi-system disease
Muscle weakness
Rashes or skin changes
Unexplained fevers

Evaluation begins with a review of the child’s medical history and a physical exam. Blood and urine tests, X-rays and other imaging tests, or referral to additional specialists may also be ordered to help with diagnosis. The goal of treating rheumatic diseases is to control inflammation to allow relief of pain, normal growth and development, and participation in school and other activities.