Women in rheumatology: major contributions and key discoveries of the twentieth century

Abstract

In the XX century rheumatology has seen an exponential growth. Discoveries in the pathophysiology of rheumatic diseases, progress in research methodology and novel treatments cardinally changed the natural course of rheumatic diseases and revolutionized patient management. Although underrepresented in this field, women have made considerable input in advancing our specialty towards the new era. In this article we acknowledge key scientific discoveries and major contributions made by 20 brilliant women scientists that shaped the field of rheumatology in the XX century. We hope that achievements of these remarkable women will inspire young rheumatologists and researchers.

Editorial: Women in science—Rheumatology 2021

“…Rheumatology is a medical discipline that saw a great growth in the last years. Despite the significant contribution provided by women in the research in this field, as underlined in a recent publication ( 4 ), the gender imbalance in senior academic and authorship positions is no exception ( 2 , 5 ). The increase of the number of women in rheumatology is an interesting data that comes also from Arab Countries, as underlined in the first publication of our collection.…”