Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description

Reumatology I

Main Study Course Information

Course Code
RRE_029
Branch of Science
Clinical medicine; Internal medicine
ECTS
29.00
Target Audience
Medicine
LQF
Level 8

Study Course Implementer

Course Supervisor

Residency Speciality

Speciality
Supervisor of Medical Speciality
Contacts

-

About Study Course

Objective

To provide theoretical knowledge and practical skill development in accordance with the national requirements for rheumatology specialization in Latvia, preparing the physician for certification in rheumatology in compliance with the regulations of the Republic of Latvia.

To ensure the acquisition of foundational theoretical knowledge and practical skills in rheumatology through both inpatient and outpatient clinical practice, encompassing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of rheumatic diseases

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge

1.The resident demonstrates advanced and comprehensive knowledge of the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal and autoimmune connective tissue diseases. This knowledge forms the basis for creative clinical reasoning and research, as well as for functioning effectively in an interdisciplinary environment. The resident acquires fundamental terminology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic principles of rheumatology, and understands the role of rheumatic diseases in the broader medical context, as well as their impact on patient function and quality of life.

Skills

1.The resident: understands the nature of the clinical problem, learns diagnostic algorithms, and is capable of providing professional, evidence-based medical care; applies diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive measures for patients with rheumatic diseases in both inpatient and outpatient settings; can clearly explain and discuss complex or systemic aspects of rheumatology with specialists, patients, and their families; accurately prepares and maintains medical documentation in both outpatient and hospital practice; develops clinical reasoning and decision-making skills while maintaining ethical and professional responsibility; independently enhances professional competence and actively participates in scientific or research work, applying innovative approaches in clinical practice.

Competences

1.The resident works within the scope of their professional authority, demonstrating the ability to apply acquired knowledge and skills in the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of rheumatic diseases under supervision. The resident gradually develops professional independence and the ability to make evidence-based, well-reasoned clinical decisions regarding patient health and to document these decisions appropriately. The resident assumes responsibility for their professional performance, actively improves competence, and collaborates in an interdisciplinary setting to ensure comprehensive patient care.

Assessment

Individual work

Title
% from total grade
Grade
1.

Individual work

-
-

The resident continuously reviews current literature and the latest research findings in rheumatology. They prepare and deliver reports and presentations during theoretical seminars.

The resident independently learns and performs clinically relevant examinations and procedures appropriate to their level of training and under the supervision of an attending physician.

Actively participates in patient evaluations, disease monitoring, treatment planning, and completion of medical documentation.

Promotes the integration of theoretical knowledge into daily clinical practice and develops clinical reasoning skills in routine rheumatologic work.

Examination

Title
% from total grade
Grade
1.

Examination

-
-

Ongoing assessment of knowledge is conducted during seminars and practical training through patient case analysis, preparation and presentation of clinical cases, and the development of study materials on assigned topics.

The resident demonstrates the ability to determine indications for specific diagnostic tests and interpret their results.

The level of knowledge and skill acquisition is also evaluated using clinical scenario tasks, discussions, direct observation of practical procedures, and instructor feedback.

Study Course Theme Plan

FULL-TIME
Part 1
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Clinical history of rheumatology. Musculoskeletal system. Joint anatomy and functions. Examination of the human musculoskeletal system and joints in the rheumatology
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Clinical epidemiology of rheumatic diseases
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Methodology and specifics of the collection of history in patients with musculoskeletal and systems of connective tissue diseases, physical examination methods
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Auditorium

Topics

Functional and instrumental investigation methods, indications for clinical and immunological examination and clinical results interpretation
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
-

Topics

Molecular and cellular basis of tissue damage
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Synovial fluid analysis
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

The role of glucocorticoids in the treatment of rheumatic diseases
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and immunomodulatory drugs
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Application of biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs in rheumatology
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Biophysiological bases of laboratory and instrumental analyzes, their role in the diagnostics, treatment and monitoring of rheumatic diseases
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Systematic approach to diagnosis. Legal bases of professional activity in rheumatology.
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Clinical trials in rheumatology. Interpretation of results
  1. Seminar

Modality
Location
On site
Specialized room

Topics

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
29.00
Number of Residency Seminars:
13
Length (weeks):
22
Final Examination:
Residency exam (Theory and practice)

Bibliography

Required Reading

1.

Marc, C. Hochberg. Rheumatology. Current edition

2.

Kelley’s Textbook of Rheumatology. Current edition

3.

Oxford Textbook of Rheumatology. Current edition

Additional Reading

1.

Rīgas Stradiņa universitātes zinātniskie raksti. Rīga, RSU

2.

Zinātniskie medicīnas žurnāli: Scand J Rheumatol; Clinical Rheumatology; The Journal of Rheumatology; Arthritis Rheumatisms; Annals of Rheumatic Diseases; Rheumatology u.c.