Fellowship in Rheumatology
Designed by: Skillversity
Duration: 12 Months
Mode: Hybrid (Online Learning + Hands-on Clinical Training)
Eligibility: MBBS, MD, DNB (General Medicine or Pediatrics) or Equivalent
Program Overview
This one-year Fellowship in Rheumatology provides healthcare professionals with advanced knowledge and hands-on training in diagnosing, managing, and treating autoimmune and inflammatory joint diseases. The program emphasizes evidence-based clinical care, immunopathology, and emerging biologic therapies.
Course Curriculum (12 Modules, 12 Months)
Module 1: Introduction to Rheumatology & Immune System
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Overview of autoimmune and rheumatologic disorders
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Basic immunology and immune system components
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Mechanisms of autoimmunity and inflammation
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Immunopathogenesis of major rheumatic diseases
Module 2: Clinical Approach to Joint Diseases
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History-taking and musculoskeletal examination
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Differentiating inflammatory vs non-inflammatory arthritis
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Diagnostic tools: X-ray, MRI, ultrasound in rheumatology
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Synovial fluid analysis and interpretation
Module 3: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
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Epidemiology, pathogenesis, and diagnosis
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Clinical features and classification criteria
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Disease activity scoring systems (DAS28, CDAI)
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DMARDs, biologics, and treatment protocols
Module 4: Seronegative Spondyloarthropathies
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Ankylosing spondylitis and axial spondyloarthritis
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Psoriatic arthritis and reactive arthritis
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Enteropathic arthritis (IBD-associated)
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Management: NSAIDs, biologics, physiotherapy
Module 5: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
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Clinical manifestations and organ involvement
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Lupus nephritis classification and management
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ANA, anti-dsDNA, and complement testing
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Immunosuppressive regimens and monitoring
Module 6: Vasculitis Syndromes
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Classification: small, medium, and large vessel vasculitis
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Giant cell arteritis, Takayasu arteritis, PAN
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ANCA-associated vasculitis (GPA, MPA, EGPA)
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Biopsy, imaging, and immunosuppressive therapy
Module 7: Crystal Arthropathies
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Gout: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management
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Pseudogout and other crystal-induced arthritides
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Urate-lowering therapies and lifestyle modifications
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Joint aspiration and intra-articular injections
Module 8: Osteoarthritis and Degenerative Joint Diseases
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Risk factors and pathophysiology of OA
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Radiologic grading and clinical features
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Pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapies
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Role of physical therapy and joint preservation
Module 9: Pediatric Rheumatology (Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis)
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Classification and diagnosis of JIA
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Systemic JIA and MAS (macrophage activation syndrome)
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Biologics in pediatric populations
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Multidisciplinary care approach
Module 10: Connective Tissue Disorders
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Systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis, polymyositis
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Sjögren’s syndrome and mixed connective tissue disease
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Raynaud’s phenomenon and ILD in CTDs
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Autoantibody testing and long-term care
Module 11: Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Syndromes
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Central sensitization and neurobiology of pain
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Diagnosis of fibromyalgia and diagnostic criteria
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Non-opioid pharmacologic and CBT-based interventions
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Rehabilitation strategies and patient counseling
Module 12: Integrated Rheumatology Practice & Case Discussions
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Case-based learning with real-life scenarios
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Multisystem disease management and complications
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Rheumatology in primary care and emergencies
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Final OSCE prep, reviews, and assessments
Clinical Training and Hands-On Exposure
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Rheumatology OPD and inpatient rounds
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Joint aspiration and injection techniques
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Immunology lab visits and autoantibody interpretation
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Participation in multidisciplinary case discussions
Assessment and Certification
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Monthly quizzes, assignments, and clinical tasks
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Practical skill evaluations and case logs
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Final exam and viva based on case presentations
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Fellowship Certification in Rheumatology by Skillversity
Who Should Enroll
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MBBS, MD/DNB physicians aiming for specialization in rheumatology
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General practitioners managing autoimmune and joint diseases
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Internists and pediatricians seeking focused expertise in rheumatologic care
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