4. Rheumatology Image Library
We can use this great resource to train our eyes for pattern recognition. This vast array of clinical pictures features a variety of skin tones and patients with diverse ethnic backgrounds, which help identify rheumatic changes in under-represented minorities. The Image Library also includes key radiographic findings and pathology slides, which I have turned to after seeing a patient with a specific rheumatic disease. During a rheumatology consult service or clinic, I have searched for pictures associated with the potential disease to view variations of the clinical presentation. The Image Library also helps me solidify visual cues related to the rheumatic disease of interest.
5. Virtual Rheumatology Program (V-FIT)
This program presents a series of video lectures from renowned rheumatologists covering essential topics. The content is targeted to fellows, but residents can use the videos to develop a good foundation before fellowship. Learners can familiarize themselves with the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis and management of simple and complex rheumatic diseases. The videos include pictures of the clinical manifestations and provide references for important clinical trials and research articles that you can save and read later to understand the evidence behind each recommendation. This resource has had the most significant impact on my growth within rheumatology. If I had to pick the top five essential videos everyone should watch, I would recommend MSK Exam, Rheumatology Labs, MSK Radiology, Rheumatology Emergencies and Patient Care Sections. For interested residents, I would add Succeeding in Fellowship, Clinical Study Design, and Therapeutics and Injections. I encourage all readers to explore the vast topics covered, as all provide valuable information.
Bonus Recommendation
RheumaHelper: This app, which is not from the ACR, is similar to the ACR’s guidelines and criteria app. It provides classifying criteria and assists in calculating the disease activity of various rheumatic diseases. The app allows users to practice determining the therapeutic response and disease course of patients in follow-up appointments. One of my attendings recommended this app, and it has helped me understand how to use classification criteria and disease activity calculations so I know what to look for in clinical interactions with rheumatic patients. Download it from your favorite app store.
These free resources will help residents navigate the field of rheumatology. As part of my medical education pathway and rheumatology pathway, I plan to restructure the current rheumatology pathway and integrate the ACR’s resources to offer aspiring rheumatologists more practical education so they have a solid foundation before fellowship.
