Mythili Seetharaman, MD

How did you become interested in medicine?

I have always been fascinated about the functioning of the human body, both in healthy and diseased states.

When did you decide to specialize in Rheumatology?

Rheumatology involves diseases that affect multiple organs apart from joints. It was a very challenging field, as some of the diseases are extremely rare and difficult to diagnose. Also, a lot of novel medications to treat arthritis were in development at the time I did my internal medicine residency.

What are common conditions you treat?

Rheumatologists treat diseases like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Gout, Systemic lupus, Polymyositis, Scleroderma, Sarcoidosis, Vasculitis, Fibromyalgia, and Osteoporosis and many other autoimmune diseases.

What do you like best about working with your patients?

I love the curiosity of my patients in learning about their disease, and especially enjoy their happiness when they feel better!

What do you like best about working for OAA?

OAA has the best facilities for rheumatology/orthopaedic care - the facility is state-of-the-art, everything is under one roof, and everyone is so helpful—staff, colleagues, and patients.

How did you come to live in the Lehigh Valley?

I wanted a change from working in the City of Philadelphia, but still wanted to be close to metropolitan areas like Philadelphia and New York City.

If you were not specializing in Rheumatology, what would you be doing?

I would specialize in Internal Medicine.

How do you apply your experience as a physician to the rest of your life?

I try to think outside the box. I'm aware of patient and family concerns when dealing with chronic diseases, and therefore I am empathetic towards others.

Of what achievements are you especially proud?

I'm proud to be a Rheumatologist - to make a difference in people's lives, and I'm also proud of my family for helping me to do that.