Patients and relatives

Contact points and general information

Patients and relatives

We research the causes and mechanisms of rheumatic diseases to enable more precise diagnoses using cutting-edge technologies, develop personalized therapies, and sustainably improve the quality of life for those affected.

Prof. Dr. med. Eicke Latz

Immune Dynamics working group, Anja Hauser. Cells made visible.

Great research challenges in the face of a serious disease.

Research at the DRFZ focuses on chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases, which arise from a dysregulation of the immune system. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells, leading to irreversible damage, such as the destruction of joint cartilage. Rheumatism is classified as an autoimmune disease, where the immune system can no longer distinguish between “self” and “foreign.”

Blood from patients is an essential tool in research. The close connection to the clinic is important for this.

Research and Patient Well-Being.

Although you are at the center of our research, the DRFZ cannot provide medical treatment. Laboratories are not hospitals, and our researchers are not authorized to make diagnoses. However, an early diagnosis is crucial for the course of the disease. If you experience relevant symptoms, you should consult a specialist in rheumatology as soon as possible. You can find contact addresses below.

Studies in epidemiology and healthcare research have been conducted at the DRFZ for decades. This long-standing wealth of data provides information on the health effects of medications.

A Treasure Trove of Rheumatology Data

In the field of epidemiology and healthcare research at the DRFZ, various long-term studies with large patient groups are conducted. These data provide insights into the quality of care for rheumatology patients in Germany and assess the safety and effectiveness of new medications. You can actively contribute to this research by participating in ongoing studies through your rheumatologist. More details can be found in Program Area 2.

Programme area 2

The “Mobile Rheumatism Consultation” during the Long Night of Science at the DRFZ offers comprehensive information and advice. Doctors from Berlin's rheumatology clinics are guests at the institute every year.

Rheumatic Diseases: Treatable but Not Curable

Thanks to significant advances in research and therapy, the symptoms of inflammatory rheumatic diseases can now be significantly alleviated. However, most patients must take medication for life, as inflammation tends to return once treatment is stopped. There is still a great need for further research in this area, which the DRFZ has been pursuing for over 30 years.

To all research areas

Rheumatic diseases in detail

You can find more information about the different types of rheumatic diseases, typical symptoms, and treatment options on various websites.

Information on different rheumatic diseases Rheuma-Liga

German Society for Rheumatology Patient Information by the DGRh

Resources from internal medicine specialists Internists Online

Additional Materials from the Rheuma-Liga

Directories of Doctors and Therapists

Living life to the fullest despite rheumatism and overcoming challenges together—many self-help organizations and associations strive to support rheumatic patients and their families.

Rheuma-Liga Care Map Looking for rheumatologists, physiotherapists, clinics, rehabilitation centers, or similar services? The Rheuma-Liga care map database includes around 1,500 rheumatology specialists who meet verified quality standards.

Working Group of Regional Cooperative Rheumatology Centers Since 1993, cooperative rheumatology centers have been improving regional care for rheumatic patients. These centers are organized within the German Society for Rheumatology (DGRh) as the Working Group of Regional Centers (AGRZ) to coordinate efforts nationwide. The AGRZ coordination office is part of the DGRh headquarters in Berlin.

Find a Regional Cooperative Rheumatology Center Near You Includes a map of rheumatology centers and early diagnosis consultation services.

Physiotherapists for Children in Berlin A directory of Berlin-based physiotherapists specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents.

Help for self-help – Patient associations and self-help groups

By patients, for patients

German Rheuma-Liga The national association provides extensive information. A dedicated members' magazine reaches around 200,000 readers.

State Associations of the Rheuma-Liga Regional branches offer support close to home.

Lupus Erythematosus Support Community e.V.

German Association for Ankylosing Spondylitis (Morbus Bechterew) e.V.

German Psoriatic Arthritis Association e.V.

German Osteoarthritis Forum

Specialist societies related to rheumatology

German Society for Rheumatology (DGRh) With more than 1,500 members, the German Society for Rheumatology e.V. (DGRh) is the leading medical-scientific society in the field of rheumatology in Germany. For over 90 years, it has promoted rheumatological science, research, and its development in Germany. As a non-profit association, the DGRh operates independently for the benefit of the general public, without pursuing commercial interests.

German Society for Orthopedics and Orthopedic Surgery Founded in 1907, this association aims to advance orthopedic science in research, teaching, and practical application, including the rehabilitation of individuals with physical disabilities.

Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Rheumatology This pediatric society focuses on close collaboration with national associations for pediatrics and rheumatology. With over 300 members—primarily pediatricians responsible for treating children and adolescents with rheumatic diseases in Germany—it actively supports research in all areas of pediatric rheumatology and the dissemination of new findings. A key mission is the continued education of physicians and medical professionals in pediatric rheumatology. The society also works on the social integration and rehabilitation of children and adolescents with rheumatic diseases and maintains close cooperation with patient support groups.

German Society for Autoimmune Diseases and Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Foundations focused on rheumatology

German Rheumatism Foundation Supporting research as a key priority.

German Children's Rheumatism Foundation This foundation is dedicated to improving the living conditions and opportunities of children with rheumatic diseases, helping them develop into strong and independent individuals.