Immunology

An immunologist is a doctor who specialises in diseases that affect the immune system. This is the system involved in defending the body from infection.

Find the right Immunologist for you

Medical Conditions

All allergic and autoimmune conditions.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Sarcoidosis
Scleroderma
Raynaud’s disease
CREST syndrome
Sjogrens syndrome
Rheumatoid arthritis
Other arthritis
Allergy
Urticaria
Anaphylaxis
Chronic fatigue syndrome

Specialty Areas of Interest

Paediatric immunology
Allergy

Associated Tests

Blood tests particularly for autoantibodies
Biopsy
Skin prick testing for allergy

Procedures

Treatment of the many allergic and autoimmune problems people may suffer generally involves the adminstration of medications.
These may include steroids or other immunosuppressant medications.

What to expect

History

Your immunologist will focus on your current symptoms, then ask about prior symptoms. Previous treatments and their efficacy is also very important. Other medical problems, medications, allergies, family and social history are also relevant.

Examination

Your immunologist will begin with a general examination and will then focus on the area causing you most trouble. This will vary depending on the clinical presentation.

Training and Qualifications

Entry into immunology training is usually very competitive. Once selected 4 years of specialty training follows. Trainees work and operate under the supervision of a consultant / specialist immunologist. Registrars must sit examinations, manage inpatients and outpatients and are encouraged to conduct research before eventually reaching specialty level.