I am a pediatric rheumatologist at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. I treat patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis/Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Juvenile Dermatomyositis, periodic fever syndromes. Behcet's Disease, Henoch-Schonlein Purpura, Kawasaki Disease, Vasculitis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Acute Rhuematic Fever, Post-Streptococcal Reactive Arthritis, Hypermobility Syndrome, Uveitis, Chronic Non-bacterial Osteomyelitis/Chronic Recurrent Osteomyelitis, and other rheumatologic conditions.

I chose to specialize in pediatric rheumatology because it is one of the few fields that still rely on clinical examination and listening to the patient. A patient’s insight, story and experience are just as important as the laboratory and imaging data. Rheumatology is also an exciting field with new discoveries and treatment options being developed all the time.

Rheumatologic conditions are chronic conditions, so I see my patients often and really get to know them and their families. It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to help these children by understanding their disorder and offering treatment therapies tailored to their specific diagnosis. I also believe that one of the best ways to care for children is to make the family part of the health care team.   

• Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital