rheumatism

Term: rheumatism

Origin:  Anc Greek ρεύμα/rheuma (=stream, flowing)

ροή/roe (=flow)

Coined: The term was introduced into the literature by the French physician G Guillaume de Baillou (1538—1616), who emphasized that arthritis could be a systemic disorder in 1642.  Later in 18^th cen William Heberden (1710-1801) wrote :

“The rheumatism is a common name for many aches and pains, which have yet peculiar appellation. Though owing to very different causes.. Commentaries on the History and Cure of Diseases, ch.79.

      The terms rheumatology and rheumatologist are first coined by Drs. Hollander and Comroe, respectively in 1940s.

Definition:

Rheumatism is a general medical term concerning diseases affecting the joints and connective tissue such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, , fibromyalgia and  lupus.