Rheumatology

In rheumatic illnesses, the immune system and immune cells become more active than normal. The immune cells can become confused and decide to interfere with important parts of the body, such as the bones, muscles, joints, blood vessels, brain, kidney or eyes. The confused immune cells usually only like to attack 1 or 2 parts of the body. For example, just the blood vessels or just the joints and eyes. 

When the immune cells decide to bother healthy areas of the body, they can cause inflammation. Inflammation can make the tissues in your body (such as bones, joints, muscles, skin or kidneys) to become angry and can make your child feel sick.

The Saskatchewan pediatric rheumatology team includes:

• Pediatric rheumatologists (doctors who care for children with rheumatic diseases)
• Nurse with special training in rheumatic diseases
• Administrative assistant who helps schedule appointments
• Physical and occupational therapists
• Social worker
• Research assistants

The team also has access to psychologists, dietitians and doctors in other specialties when required. 

Where is the pediatric rheumatology team located?

The pediatric rheumatology team is on the 1st floor at the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital in Saskatoon. We provide care for kids from across Saskatchewan and we sometimes travel to other places in the province to provide care. We even connect with patients and families by secure audio-video conferencing (TeleHealth).

To help diagnose and care for children with rheumatic illnesses, it’s important to have some in-person visits with our team in Saskatoon to help make the best assessments and care plans for your child. It’s also important to know that your family doctor, nurse practitioner or pediatrician can contact our team by phone or fax for advice about pediatric rheumatology care.