• Systemic lupus (SLE)
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Scleroderma
• Asthma
• Hay fever
• Nut allergies
• Food allergies
• Milk intolerance

The mission of the Division of Rheumatology/Allergy/Clinical Immunology is to provide the finest treatment available to patients who suffer from allergies or arthritis. Our physicians are renowned for vigorous, compassionate patient care. We focus on the immune system, which provides protection against infection and invasion of hostile organisms. However, the immune system can turn against patients and cause disabling, painful and deadly illness that affects many parts of the body, including the joints, liver, bowel and lungs. New insights into the complexities of the immune system have led to innovative therapies and prevention strategies. In recognition of their work, division faculty have been awarded honors by prominent medical schools in 25 countries.

Our physicians provide consultations for physicians throughout California regarding the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of rheumatic disorders and autoimmune diseases. We also see patients who come from as far away as Europe, Japan and South America. The division features special-emphasis panels in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. In addition, we offer a clinical program to address allergies, including special treatments for food allergies and food hypersensitivity. State-of-the-art therapy for patients with serious and chronic asthma includes a self-care component involving environmental education, food, nutrition and pharmacotherapy. One clinic is dedicated to evaluation, therapy and rehabilitation of the unique problems faced by musicians such as overuse syndromes and tendonitis.

Since 1974, the division has received funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). We have led the country by organizing national and state committees to develop cutting-edge research. Our researchers initiated efforts in California to improve understanding and treatment of food allergies and introduced the first oral vaccine for an autoimmune disease. We have pioneered efforts to find cures for patients harmed by their own immune system by investigating responses to food allergens, immunologic mediated liver disease and asthma. Our scientists have developed a notable alternative and complementary medicine program, especially related to asthma. The division actively tests the use of new drugs for patients with serious intractable arthritis. Clinical research also includes the prevention and treatment of overuse syndromes and the role of autoimmunity in rheumatoid arthritis.

Visit the UC Davis Immunology Lab Web site for an in-depth look at the research being done.

The division consists of a unique, versatile multidisciplinary team of rheumatolo-gists, immunologists and allergists dedicated to improving the immune system. We know what it means to suffer from chronic disease, and we want our patients to feel our devotion and thoroughness. The division has new research grants from the NIH totaling more than $2.5 million allocated to finding better treatments. We will use technology to make the important discoveries of this new century and bridge the gaps in our health care system. Our goal is to help people help themselves, start living and stop suffering. If we do not have the answers, we will find them for our patients.