General Applications of Ultrasound in Rheumatology Practice

Conclusions

Ultrasound is becoming a relevant part of rheumatology practice and research and can be regarded as a feasible and effective imaging technique that can allow real-time recognition of early anatomical changes, provide careful guidance for aspiration, and monitor local and/or systemic treatment response at the joint, tendon, enthesis, nail, and skin levels. Ultrasound is a user-friendly imaging modality readily applied at the bedside and considered an extension of the rheumatologist's physical examination.

The success of US depends on the individual operator. For this reason, structured educational programs during fellowship training programs and an efficient competency assessment system would facilitate proper implementation of US in rheumatology practice as performed by some but not all institutions.

Author disclosures
The authors report no actual or potential conflicts of interest with regard to this article.

Disclaimer
The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Federal Practitioner, Frontline Medical Communications Inc., the U.S. Government, or any of its agencies. This article may discuss unlabeled or investigational use of certain drugs. Please review the complete prescribing information for specific drugs or drug combinations—including indications, contraindications, warnings, and adverse effects—before administering pharmacologic therapy to patients.