When to request a paediatric rheumatology opinion

Rheumatic diseases in children are common, have variable clinical presentations and a broad spectrum of outcome, ranging from benign and self-limiting to potentially fatal. Chronic rheumatic diseases can result in disability and invariably have a marked impact on the child and the family. Early diagnosis and appropriate multidisciplinary management does improve the long-term outcome. The paediatric rheumatologist provides support to the general paediatrician in making a diagnosis and working within a paediatric rheumatology multidisciplinary team, provides a comprehensive management programme.