DR. RACHEL KAISER MD, MPH
NPI 1003086448
Internal Medicine - Rheumatology in Chevy Chase, MD

This procedure involves inserting a small needle into a vein, typically in your arm, to collect a blood sample. It's a quick and simple process to help diagnose or monitor health conditions. You may feel a small prick, but discomfort is minimal.

A DXA bone density measurement is a simple, quick, and non-invasive procedure that assesses the strength of your bones. This test uses X-rays to measure the amount of minerals, mainly calcium, in the hip, pelvis, and spine. It helps in early detection of osteoporosis or other bone diseases.

This procedure involves giving anti-cancer drugs, which don't contain hormones, into the muscle or under the skin. These drugs help to stop the growth of cancer cells. The process is usually quick and done by a healthcare professional.

Zoledronic acid is a medication given via injection to strengthen bones. It's often used in patients with osteoporosis or certain types of cancer. The injection helps reduce the risk of fractures and other bone complications.

This procedure involves administering medication directly under the skin or into a muscle. A small needle is used to inject the drug, allowing it to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. It's a common method for delivering a variety of medications.

This is a routine visit for patients who have already been seen by the healthcare provider. During this approximately 20-29 minute appointment, your health status will be evaluated and any necessary treatments or tests will be discussed. It's a chance to address any health concerns you may have.

A comprehensive group of blood chemicals test, also known as a comprehensive metabolic panel, is a blood test that measures your sugar level, electrolyte and fluid balance, kidney function, and liver function. This helps to check your body's overall health.

A Vitamin D-3 level test measures the amount of Vitamin D-3, a crucial nutrient, in your body. This test helps identify if your levels are too low or too high. Low levels may lead to bone weakness, while high levels could harm your kidneys. It's a simple blood test.

Triamcinolone acetonide is a medication used to reduce inflammation in the body. It's given as a 10 mg injection for conditions like allergies, arthritis, or skin problems. The injection helps to decrease swelling, redness, and itching.

C-reactive protein (CRP) test is a blood test that checks for signs of inflammation or infection in the body. High levels of CRP often suggest that there's inflammation or a bacterial infection. This test helps in monitoring and managing conditions like arthritis and heart disease.

This procedure measures the level of specific antibodies in your body to assess if you have an autoimmune disorder. Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces. In autoimmune disorders, these antibodies mistakenly attack your own cells. This test helps identify such conditions.

A total calcium level test measures the amount of calcium in your blood. Calcium is essential for body functions like bone formation, nerve signal transmission, and muscle contraction. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like bone disease or kidney disorders.

The Red Blood Cell Sedimentation Rate is a test that helps detect inflammation in the body. It's automated, meaning a machine does the work. This test measures how fast red blood cells settle at the bottom of a tube in an hour. A faster rate may indicate inflammation.

A Complete Blood Cell Count is a common test that measures various components of the blood, including red cells (carry oxygen), white cells (fight infection), and platelets (help blood clot). An automated test ensures accuracy. The differential count provides detailed information about white cell types.

Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. When administered into a vein, it's often through an IV. This procedure usually lasts 1 hour or less. You may feel a slight pinch as the needle is inserted, but it's generally painless.

This is a first-time office or outpatient visit lasting between 45-59 minutes. The healthcare provider evaluates your health, discusses your medical history, and may suggest further tests or treatments. It's an opportunity to ask questions and understand your health better.

The measurement of complement (immune system proteins) and antigen is a blood test. It helps to assess how your immune system is functioning. Complement proteins play a role in your body's immune response, and antigens trigger this response. This test helps in diagnosing and monitoring certain diseases.

A screening test for antibodies to noninfectious agents is a medical procedure that checks your body's response to substances that are not infectious. It involves taking a blood sample to identify specific antibodies, which are proteins your body produces when it detects harmful elements.

This is a procedure where a medical professional inserts a small tube into your vein to deliver medication, nutrients, or fluids directly into your bloodstream. This can be for treatment, prevention, or diagnosis. The process typically takes less than an hour.

A creatinine level test measures the amount of creatinine in your blood. This substance is a waste product from normal muscle use. Higher levels can indicate possible kidney dysfunction or muscle injury. This test helps monitor kidney health.

A therapy procedure using functional activities encourages you to use your own body movements in day-to-day tasks to aid recovery. It aims to improve your mobility, strength, and overall health by incorporating therapeutic exercises into your routine.

An X-ray of the hand, minimum of 3 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the bones in your hand from different angles. This helps in diagnosing fractures, infections, arthritis, or other abnormalities. It's quick and painless.

A urine calcium level test measures the amount of calcium in your urine. This helps determine how well your kidneys are functioning and can aid in diagnosing certain health conditions. It involves collecting urine over 24 hours in a special container.

This therapy involves exercises to boost strength, endurance, flexibility, and range of motion. Each session lasts 15 minutes. The goal is to improve physical function and overall health. It's a safe, beneficial method for enhancing well-being and fitness.

This procedure involves using a needle to remove (aspiration) or introduce (injection) fluid into a large joint like the knee or hip. It can help diagnose conditions, relieve discomfort, or deliver medication directly to the joint.

Chemotherapy is a treatment method that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. The drugs are administered into a vein, usually in the arm. Each additional hour of chemotherapy allows for more of the medication to enter your bloodstream to fight against the cancer cells.

This is a first-time patient visit where a healthcare professional spends 60-74 minutes with you. It involves a comprehensive evaluation, including your medical history and current health condition. They'll also advise on preventive health measures and formulate a treatment plan if needed.

A screening test for autoimmune disorders is a medical check-up that helps identify if your body's immune system is attacking its own cells. It involves a simple blood draw and analyzes various markers to detect potential issues. This test aids in early detection and effective treatment.

An X-ray of the knee, 3 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the knee from three different angles. This helps medical professionals to diagnose and monitor conditions like arthritis, fractures, or infections. The process is quick and painless.

The Rheumatoid Factor Level test is a blood test that helps detect the presence of Rheumatoid Factor (RF), a protein produced by your immune system. High RF levels often indicate autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. The test involves a simple blood draw and lab analysis.

An X-ray of the foot, minimum of 3 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the bones and tissues in your foot. This helps to identify fractures, infections, or other abnormalities. Multiple views ensure a comprehensive examination.

A serum protein measurement is a blood test that determines the levels of proteins in your blood. It is used to evaluate your overall health, and diagnose nutritional problems, kidney disease, liver disease, or immune disorders.

A manual urinalysis test with automated microscopic examination is a lab process that checks your urine for health indicators. It involves a machine scanning your sample to identify any abnormal elements, which can assist in diagnosing various conditions.

This service involves a follow-up appointment for existing patients, lasting between 40 to 54 minutes. During this time, your healthcare provider will assess your current health status, discuss any changes or concerns, review your treatment plan, and answer any questions you may have.

An X-ray of the shoulder, with a minimum of 2 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of your shoulder bones. This helps in diagnosing conditions like fractures, arthritis, or other abnormalities. The procedure is quick and painless.

The Total Protein Level in urine test measures the amount of protein present in your urine. This helps to check kidney health as high levels may indicate a problem. It's a simple, non-invasive procedure involving a urine sample.

This procedure measures the level of certain antibodies in your blood. These antibodies can be higher in people with rheumatoid arthritis, a condition causing joint inflammation. The test helps in diagnosing or monitoring the disease.

The administration of the influenza virus vaccine, also known as the flu shot, is a simple procedure to protect against the flu. A healthcare provider injects a small dose of the vaccine into your arm. This stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies, which will help your body fight off the flu if exposed.

The Influenza vaccine, inactivated, is a shot given to protect against the flu. It contains killed virus particles that help your body build immunity to the flu. It's recommended annually to keep your protection up-to-date. It's safe for ages 6 months and up.

This therapy involves using hands-on techniques to help improve your body's movement and function. These techniques may include stretching, resistance exercises, or gentle pressure. Each session lasts 15 minutes and aims to relieve pain, promote healing, and improve your overall health.

This therapy helps retrain your brain, nerves, and muscles to work together. Through targeted exercises, your body learns to regain lost functions or improve current abilities. Each session lasts 15 minutes.

An X-ray of the lower and sacral spine involves capturing images of your lower back and tailbone area. It helps in identifying issues like fractures, arthritis, or other abnormalities. At least four different angles or 'views' are taken to get a comprehensive picture.

A blood creatinine level test measures the amount of creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is a waste product that your body produces when it uses energy. High levels may indicate that your kidneys aren't working properly. This test is often used to monitor kidney health.

An X-ray of the upper spine with 4-5 views is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses radiation to capture detailed images of the bones and structures in your neck and upper back. This procedure helps identify issues like fractures, infections, or deformities.

The total Creatine Kinase (CK) level test is a blood test that helps assess the health of your heart. It measures an enzyme called CK that's released into the bloodstream when heart or other muscle tissue is damaged. High levels may indicate a heart attack or muscle disorder.

A total protein level blood test measures the amount of proteins in your blood. Proteins are essential for body functions, including immune response, tissue repair, and nutrient transportation. Abnormal levels may indicate certain diseases or conditions. It's a simple test involving a blood draw.

This is a service where you have a phone conversation with your doctor for 11-20 minutes. It's used for discussing health concerns, reviewing test results, or managing ongoing conditions. It's a convenient way to receive medical advice without an in-person visit.

A blood uric acid level test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood. Uric acid is a waste product that your body produces when it breaks down purines, substances found in your body and in certain foods. High levels may lead to gout or kidney stones.

Microsomal antibodies measurement is a blood test to detect specific antibodies that your immune system may produce. It's often used to diagnose autoimmune conditions like thyroid disorders. The test is simple, involving a standard blood draw.

Thyroglobulin antibody measurement is a blood test that checks for antibodies against thyroglobulin, a protein in your thyroid gland. It helps detect conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or monitor thyroid cancer treatment. It's a simple, safe procedure.