Many people who have (or suspect they have) lupus see a rheumatologist (or pediatric rheumatologist if a child or teen). This type of doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the joints and muscles. 

Since lupus can cause damage to many different parts of the body, you may see other types of doctors too, such as a

• Dermatologist- a doctor who specializes in diseases of the skin such as cutaneous lupus
• Cardiologist - a doctor who specializes in diseases of the heart
• Nephrologist - a doctor who specializes in diseases of the kidney
• Neurologist - a doctor who specializes in diseases of the brain and nervous system
• Gastroenterologist - a doctor who specializes in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
• Pulmonologist - a doctor who specializes in diseases of the lungs
• Perinatologist - a specialized obstetrician/gynecologist who focuses on complicated and high-risk pregnancies

The Lupus Foundation of America has a national network of local chapters that can provide a list of physicians in their service area who diagnose and treat lupus.

Need help finding a rheumatologist?

If you are looking for a rheumatologist, we recommend the Directory of Rheumatologists from the American College of Rheumatology.