The Rheumatology program offers specialty services to children throughout the province of Newfoundland and Labrador with suspected or diagnosed rheumatic disease. Rheumatologists can treat autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, muscles, and blood vessels (vasculitis).
What we do
We provide diagnosis and management of rheumatic diseases such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis and other forms of inflammatory connective tissue disease. These diseases include:
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)
- Lupus
- PFAPA (Periodic Fever, Aphthous Stomatitis, Pharyngitis, Adenitis)
- Raynaud’s phenomenon
- Scleroderma
- Fibromyalgia
- Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP)
- Lyme arthritis
- Dermatomyositis
- Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO)
Follow-up, support and education of the different diagnoses is offered through regular outpatient clinics.
Who we see
We provide care for children and youth up to their 18th birthday. We also help them transition to the referred adult services.
Our team
Our team is comprised of the following health-care professionals:
- Pediatric rheumatologist
- Nurse coordinator
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational therapist
- Dietitian
- Medical daycare staff
- Social worker
- Administrative assistant
Pharmacy, laboratory and X-ray technicians, nurses and staff of the operating room, recovery room, surgical daycare and inpatient units are also a part of our team.
How to access this service
A referral is required from a health-care provider, such as your family doctor, specialist, or a nurse practitioner. See referrals.
When your appointment is scheduled, our office will send a letter or reach out via telephone.
Where we are
Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre
300 Prince Philip Drive
St. John’s, NL
A1B 3V6
Hours of operation
Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Travelling clinic to Corner Brook, NL occurs every three to four (3-4) months.
How to reach us
Nurse coordinator – Telephone: 709-777-2219, Fax: 709-738-4151
Rheumatology secretary – Telephone: 709-777-4766, Fax: 709-777-4343
Frequently asked questions
Do kids get arthritis?
Yes, children do get arthritis.
Who is a rheumatologist?
A pediatric rheumatologist is a pediatrician physician who received further training in the diagnosis (detection) and treatment of musculoskeletal disease and systemic autoimmune conditions, commonly referred to as rheumatic diseases.
Who is a nurse coordinator?
A registered nurse coordinator (RN) specializes in specific programs providing support, education, coordination of patient care and treatments by including all members of the patient’s care team.
What are common tests used in the rheumatology clinic?
- Blood work
- Ultrasound
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computed tomography (CT or CAT)
- Joint injections
- Joint aspirations
- Urine testing
- Genetic testing
Your rheumatology team will explain each test, as it is required, in your circle of care.
