Middlesex Welcomes New Rheumatologist

Middlesex Hospital is pleased to welcome new staff member Thomas Terenzi, DO. His arrival allows the Hospital to revive its rheumatology program.

“We have not had a Hospital employed rheumatologist for a few years and now we have one of the finest, most experienced in the state,” says Dr. Rachel Lovins, chair of the Hospital’s medical department. “Dr. Terenzi will work closely with our other sub-specialists, our pathology and pharmacy departments and our teaching program. He will benefit our community, where there is a need for this service.”

Rheumatology is a sub-specialty in internal medicine. Rheumatologists, such as Dr. Terenzi, diagnose and treat systemic autoimmune diseases and musculoskeletal conditions known as rheumatic diseases. These include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, psoriatic arthritis, gout and vasculitis. Treatments can range from anti-inflammatory medications to chemotherapy, depending on the disease. Injections may also be required.

The immune system’s job is to protect the body, but at times, it may produce excessive inflammation. “We try to normalize it as much as possible,” Dr. Terenzi says.

Dr. Terenzi comes to Middlesex from St. Francis Hospital in Hartford and has a long list of academic credentials. He received his doctorate of osteopathic medicine from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine of the New York Institute of Technology. He completed a medicine internship at St. Barnabas Hospital Center in New York City and his internal medicine residency and his fellowship in rheumatology, allergy and clinical immunology at Winthrop-University Hospital/Stony Brook Medical School.

Dr. Terenzi worked for several years as a medical technologist in a clinical laboratory before becoming a doctor.

Dr. Terenzi says anyone who experiences pain, or who feels different than they normally do, should see their primary care doctor for an initial evaluation. If you are referred to a rheumatologist, multiple visits may be required – enough to keep your condition stable and monitored.

To stay up-to-date on the latest in his field, Dr. Terenzi has an established relationship with the Cleveland Clinic and is involved with the American Association of Immunologists and the American College of Rheumatology. In his free time, he enjoys boating.

Dr. Terenzi practices in Middletown and can be reached at 860-358-8680.