Why does one see a rheumatologist?
 

I have seen my primary and neuro. What are the benefits of seeing a rheumatologist?

A rheumatologist can help identify and treat any underlining autoimmmune conditions causing your neuropathy. Of course, they also treat rheumatic disease like rheumatoid arthritis, etc.

This is a good question. So the rheumatologist is the specialist for autoimmune disorders?

this explains:

http://hss.edu/onthemove/ask-the-exp.../#.VSQ6wpN53To

YES...at least most of the more common ones.

Thanks I guess I should find one. Anyone know of a good one in NYC/NJ?

If there is any thought of your neuropathy being autoimmune based, you might ask your neuro for a recommendation for a rheumatologist...this way maybe they will work together better in coordination of care for you.

Yeah good idea. After doing some more research, there's also Immunologists. Too many doctors! :eek:

Theres a difference, Rheumatologists are MDs, dealing with patients with the disease. Immunologist in USA are PHD who are also called DOCTORS/professors. or master degree holders. they are heavily involved in reasearch. while MD are not.

While there are PhDs in immunology and teaching ...many medical doctors are clinical immunologists --often in practice with allergists or have a combined specialty:

http://www.aaaai.org/about-the-aaaai...ed-skills.aspx

Hence there are medical doctors who are certified immunologists and treat patients in a clinical setting.