The Division of Rheumatology in the Department of Medicine at WashU Medicine is committed to delivering outstanding, patient-centered care for individuals with a broad spectrum of rheumatologic diseases, including:
- Gout and pseudogout
- Inflammatory myopathies
- Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sarcoidosis
- Scleroderma
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Vasculitis
To meet the diverse needs of our patients, the division offers a range of specialized clinics that provide comprehensive, individualized care plans. These clinics are designed to address each patient’s unique clinical circumstances, ensuring they receive thorough evaluation, expert management, and coordinated follow-up tailored to their specific condition.
The Lupus Clinic at WashU Medicine directed by Dr. Al Kim, specializes in providing integrated and comprehensive care to patients diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus. Through an integrated approach, we collaborate closely with our renal, dermatology, and obstetrics/gynecology teams to ensure seamless coordination of office visits and deliver personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
The Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Clinic at WashU Medicine directed by Dr. Deborah Parks, offers specialized expertise in musculoskeletal ultrasonography. This clinic focuses on both interventional procedures and diagnostic assessments of musculoskeletal conditions. Using point-of-care ultrasound, the clinic can identify subclinical synovitis, aiding in the early detection of joint inflammation. Additionally, this advanced imaging modality allows for more precise intra-articular therapies, improving treatment outcomes. The clinic’s goal is to provide comprehensive care and contribute to advancements in musculoskeletal ultrasound techniques and interventions.
The Myositis Clinic at WashU Medicine directed by Drs. Deepali Sen and Robert Bucelli, offers specialized care for patients with immune and inflammatory myopathies (IIMs). The clinic is jointly run by Rheumatology and Neurology/Neuromuscular Medicine, allowing for comprehensive evaluations and individualized treatment plans. Patients receive sequential consultations with a rheumatologist and neuromuscular neurologist on the same day. The clinic aims to improve the quality of life for IIM patients through collaborative, evidence-based care and contribute to advancements in the field.
The Ocular Rheumatology Clinic at WashU Medicine directed by Dr. Michael Paley, collaborates closely with the Department of Ophthalmology to provide specialized care for individuals with inflammatory eye disorders. This clinic is dedicated to the diagnosis and management of conditions such as uveitis, scleritis, and orbital inflammation. With expertise in both rheumatology and ophthalmology, the team at the Ocular Rheumatology Clinic offers comprehensive evaluations and tailored treatment plans to improve the ocular health and overall well-being of patients.
The Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Disease-related Interstitial Lung Disease (SARD-ILD) Clinic is one of our division’s specialized clinics. Established in 2022 under the leadership of Dr. Aisha Shaikh, who serves as the clinic director guiding the clinic’s vision and efforts, the clinic focuses on the complexities of interstitial lung diseases (ILD) associated with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, Sjogren’s syndrome, myositis, and vasculitis. Our team includes Dr. Deepali Sen, with expertise in ILD associated with immune inflammatory myopathies, and Dr. Sambhawana Bhandari, who joined our team in 2025 after completing a fellowship at Washington University.
The Vasculitis and Rare Disease Clinic at WashU Medicine directed by Drs. Colin Diffie and Aisha Shaikh, is dedicated to providing exceptional care to a diverse range of patients suffering from rare autoimmune diseases. From ANCA associated vasculitis to previously unidentified or esoteric conditions that challenge diagnosis, our clinic specializes in managing and treating these complex diseases.
To make an appointment or refer a patient, please call 314-286-2635
If you are a medical professional and would like to refer your patient to our clinic, please download this referral paperwork (pdf).
If you currently have an appointment as a new patient, please print the medical history form (pdf) and medication list to bring to your appointment.