The rheumatological history

Rheumatological diseases include conditions that affect only limited regions of the locomotor system and also conditions that can have widespread systemic effects. The rheumatological history must reflect both of these aspects. The main symptoms of joint disease are pain, stiffness, swelling and deformity. It is also important to enquire about functional impairment and resultant disability. Systemic diseases can be associated with non-specific symptoms, such as fever, anorexia and weight loss. A careful systems review is important in eliciting specific symptoms.