Topics in Gastroenterology and Rheumatology for Primary Care Providers

Upon completion of this course the participants should be able to:

1. Discuss the new American College of Rheumatology /EULAR diagnostic criteria.
2. Understand the application of the new serologic tests.
3. Analyze the use of biologic agents and their mechanism of action in the management of RA.
4. Differentiate between the various forms of psoriatic arthritis.
5. Describe the available treatment modalities for the skin and the joints.
6. Discuss the rheumatic and systemic manifestations of this group of diseases.
7. Describe new diagnostic and treatment options.
8. Apply principals for the management of ankylosing spondylitis.
9. Explain the epidemiology of gout.
10. Analyze the clinical features of gout and pseudgout.
11. Determine treatment options.
12. Appreciate the contentious arguments surrounding this controversial disorder.
13. Discuss current opinions on its patho-physiology.
14. Assess this condition and explain how it can be managed.
15. Discuss the biomechanical and epidemiological basis of OA.
16. Determine the medical management of OA via lifestyle and pharmacologic intervention.
17. Review the current diagnostic criteria of SLE.
18. Assess when to refer a patient with SLE to a rheumatologist.