<p>Tests and diagnosis discussion for Arthritis: Diagnosing rheumatic diseases can be difficult because some symptoms and signs are common to many different diseases. A general practitioner or family doctor may be able to evaluate a patient or refer him or her to a rheumatologist: a doctor who specializes in treating arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. </p>
<p>The doctor will review the patient’s medical history, conduct a physical examination, and obtain laboratory tests and X rays or other imaging tests. The doctor may need to see the patient more than once to make an accurate diagnosis.</p>
