7 Wonders 0f the World

International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases 2008; 11: 91– 96

Blackwell Publishing Asia

SPECIAL ARTICLE

Seven wonders in the world of rheumatology

Seven wonders in the world of rheumatology: a short story of romance, reminiscences and renaissance
Prakash PISPATI
Jaslok, Breach Candy and Saifee Hospitals, Mumbai, India

Abstract
Genesis and evolution of contemporary rheumatology is many centuries old. The lessons of medical history, its triumphs and failures, its twists and turns, have all facilitated today’s science. Even in the ancient era some rheumatic diseases have been described with vivid accuracy. Among these are gout, spinal afflictions, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis, as we recognize them today. Ancient systems of medicine such as Ayurveda in India led to the introduction of gold salts. Invention of the microscope paved the way to the birth of microbiology, unfolding infective, and later inflammatory diseases, cellular pathology and immunology. Progress in therapeutics was slow and physicians and rheumatologists had to borrow drugs from other medical disciplines, for example antimalarials and cytotoxics. The Nobel Prize-winning discovery and development of cortisone was a major landmark in medicine, while also treating rheumatoid arthritis. Thanks to the advent of molecular medicine, rapid strides have been accomplished, and we now have new agents of biotechnology research. Orthopedics with computer-assisted and robotic surgeries, are becoming almost fail-safe for specific indications. The nature of chronic rheumatic diseases, necessitating long-term treatments, have led to the popularity of alternative medicines. Seven significant episodes are essayed herein. Rheumatology is on the threshold of exciting medical progress, enabling the majority of rheumatic patients to enjoy enhanced quality of life. Key words: alternative medicines, Ayurveda, rheumatic diseases

INTRODUCTION
Since time immemorial, man’s quest for happiness and health

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