The ubiquity of rheumatological manifestations among other specialties

Rheumatological manifestations are widely encountered in daily clinical practice of all medical specialties. It is important to consider the possibility of systemic non-rheumatic conditions when evaluating patients with musculoskeletal symptoms. Essential features to consider (gender, ethnicity, age of onset) along with the pattern of arthritis and associated symptoms, can offer important clues in formulating a differential diagnosis. The present article is based on literature review. Evaluation for underlying malignancy should be investigated especially in older patients, seronegative tests, or in the presence of constitutional symptoms, the so-called “red-flags”. Early-onset arthritis may also be seen in rare genetic disorders like Wilson’s disease or in hematological malignancies such as amyloidosis. Rheumatologic manifestations are common in sarcoidosis but are often misdiagnosed or overlooked. Additionally, early osteoporosis and osteoarthritis should raise suspicion for systemic conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light various rheumatic conditions, acting as a trigger for vasculitis. Management of these illnesses becomes even more challenging in patients with recent viral exposure. A diversity of rheumatic symptoms ranging from acute or chronic pain, arthritis can be the forefront of a systemic disease with multiorgan involvement. Moreover, newly introduced therapies, such as checkpoint inhibitors can induce rheumatic manifestations that need to be promptly identified. It is important to recognize the disease behind the musculoskeletal display, since it is crucial for selecting the most appropriate treatment. A multidisciplinary approach is essential in order to manage these patients effectively.