Rheumatology

CHOC Specialists Rheumatology physicians are committed to the early intervention necessary to maximize quality of life for children with rheumatic diseases. These highly experienced and talented physicians provide innovative, yet cost-effective inpatient and outpatient care for inflammatory and non-inflammatory rheumatic diseases, including:

  • Autoinflammatory/periodic fever syndromes
  • Chronic iritis
  • Dermatomyositis
  • Dysautonomia syndromes
  • Hypermobility-associated musculoskeletal pain
  • Iridocyclitis
  • Juvenile ankylosing spondylitis (JAS)
  • Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)
  • Pain amplification syndrome and related pain syndromes
  • Scleroderma
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  • Vasculitis (including ANCA-associated)

Clinical services are complemented by the multidisciplinary care provided by other pediatric subspecialists, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, clinical dietitians and social workers at CHOC and CHOC at Mission.

Regionally Recognized for Clinical Excellence

Early intervention is crucial to long-term prognosis and quality of life for a child with rheumatic disease. As part of their professional commitment to serving this especially vulnerable patient population, CHOC Specialists Rheumatology physicians often travel outside Orange County to assess a child in need, in addition to providing outreach to local hospitals.

As CCS-accredited providers in rheumatic disease, CHOC Specialists Rheumatology physicians are available for on-site evaluation within a three-county radius: Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. They are also affiliated with the American Juvenile Arthritis Organization and serve on the board of the Arthritis Foundation.

Care Available for the “Whole Child” and Family

As part of the multidisciplinary treatment milieu, clinical services offered include medical evaluation and therapy, psychosocial support, nursing education, and occupational and physical therapy. Families are encouraged to participate in rheumatic disease support groups.

A CHOC Specialists Rheumatology physician also provides medical care at Camp Esperanza, a summer camp sponsored every year by the Arthritis Foundation for children with rheumatic diseases.

Actively Participating in the Latest Bench and Clinical Research

CHOC Specialists Rheumatology physicians serve as principal investigators for several research studies into inflammation, a significant factor in such autoimmune diseases as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, multiple sclerosis and scleroderma. Activities are focused on the genetics of autoimmune disease and DNA repair. Their involvement in this leading-edge research gives patients access to newer medications and treatment.