Autoimmune Diseases

The purpose of this course is to provide healthcare professionals with the information necessary to diagnose and treat the most common autoimmune disorders according to evidence-based or guideline-endorsed recommendations in order to improve patient quality of life. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.

Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:

1. Describe the impact and pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases in the United States.
2. Recognize genetic and environmental risk factors for autoimmune diseases.
3. Evaluate the general characteristics of autoimmune diseases, including the difficulty in reaching a diagnosis.
4. Identify approaches to the management of autoimmune diseases, with special attention to considerations for patients with limited English proficiency and/or health literacy.
5. Analyze the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic criteria of autoimmune thyroiditis.
6. Select the appropriate treatment for Hashimoto disease and Graves disease in various patient populations.
7. Appropriately identify and diagnose rheumatoid arthritis according to established diagnostic criteria and clinical manifestations.
8. Outline the recommended treatment of rheumatoid arthritis using pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions.
9. Discuss the importance of follow-up and patient education in the treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
10. Evaluate the impact and diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (systemic lupus), including indications for appropriate referral.
11. Analyze the available treatments for systemic lupus, including considerations for follow-up and prognosis.
12. Apply the available diagnostic criteria to identify and treat Sjögren syndrome.
13. Outline the diagnostic criteria established for fibromyalgia, and discuss potential difficulties in establishing a diagnosis.
14. Identify appropriate treatment modalities for patients with fibromyalgia and patient education and follow-up needs.
15. Evaluate the clinical manifestations and diagnosis of celiac disease.

This 15-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.