Diseases of the joints and surrounding tissues cannot be visualised without the help of imaging techniques. These range from x-rays (which have been available for over 100 years) to the highly sophisticated magnetic resonance imaging scanning. The variety of imaging techniques and indeed the quality of these images has improved radically in the past decade and this book attempts to capture the way in which rheumatologists and their colleagues can use a wide variety of techniques to analyse musculoskeletal diseases which are known to exist.
This handbook provides the reader with an insight into both which imaging techniques should be applied to particular clinical problems and how the results can be used to determine the diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal conditions. It is extensively illustrated with examples of the various imaging techniques and joints to aid understanding, and is organised by anatomical region and specific musculoskeletal disorder to allow easy access to information.

The field of rheumatology has undergone numerous exciting advances in recent years, especially the development of biological drugs with novel targets, made possible by rapid advances in the basic science of musculoskeletal diseases together with improved imaging techniques. This thoroughly revised fourth edition of the Oxford Textbook of Rheumatology reflects the changing face of the specialty and the many recent advances in the science, treatment, and understanding of rheumatic diseases. The focus of this comprehensive reference work is the presentation and management of rheumatic conditions at all ages. Where relevant, treatment approaches are evidence-based and cross-referenced to national and international guidelines. Each clinical chapter provides up-to-date treatment advice illustrated with clinical vignettes as appropriate, and the authors consistently emphasize the overlap of rheumatology with other disciplines. With full colour illustrations throughout and a complementary online version, the Oxford Textbook of Rheumatology, Fourth Edition is an essential reference for all trainees and specialists in the field.