Dr Luigi Zolio - Wednesday, 6 May 2026 at 7.30pm

Dr Luigi Zolio, Rheumatologist

Autoantibody testing in musculoskeletal diseases: a practical case-based refresher

Learning outcomes

• Identify musculoskeletal or other undifferentiated presentations that warrant autoantibody testing in general practice, and select the most appropriate initial investigations
• Interpret autoantibody test results in clinical context, and explain how these results modify pre-test and post-test probability of systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease
• Apply an evidence-based approach to autoantibody testing and interpretation in common general practice scenarios, including determining when to provide reassurance, pursue further testing, or refer to rheumatology

Biography

Dr Luigi Zolio is a Rheumatologist managing all musculoskeletal conditions, with particular interests in systemic lupus erythematosus, autoimmune connective tissue diseases, and osteoporosis. Dr Zolio takes pride in listening carefully to his patients and working collaboratively with them to develop comprehensive and individualised management plans.

Dr Zolio studied medicine at Monash University, graduating with honours, before undertaking specialist training at The Alfred Hospital and St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne. He then completed a clinical and research fellowship at University College London Hospital and University College London in the UK, focusing on systemic lupus erythematosus.

Alongside his consulting work, Dr Zolio is completing a PhD at the University of Melbourne, investigating the long-term outcomes of lupus patients in a ‘low disease activity state’. His research has been published and presented in areas including lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, vasculitis, osteoarthritis, and medical education.

Dr Zolio is actively involved in medical education through teaching roles at Monash University and the Australian Medical Council, and he serves as a member of the Australian Rheumatology Association Drugs and Therapeutics Committee. Dr Zolio was born in Brazil and is fluent in Portuguese.