The Department of Rheumatology and Comorbid Conditions is a leading research unit with more than 50 years of experience in pediatric rheumatology and cardiology, conducting clinical and translational research on cardiovascular diseases, systemic connective tissue disorders, and chronic conditions affecting children and adolescents.
A major area of expertise is pediatric cardiovascular health, including arterial hypertension, myocardial diseases, cardiomyopathies, arrhythmias, conduction disorders, heart failure, and cardiovascular complications associated with chronic diseases. Research activities focus on disease mechanisms, risk assessment, early diagnosis, personalized treatment strategies, and long-term patient monitoring. The Department also studies cardiovascular adaptation and functional status in physically active children and adolescent athletes.
The Department is widely recognized for its work in pediatric rheumatology, including juvenile idiopathic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis, dermatomyositis, scleroderma, and other immune-mediated diseases. Research is aimed at improving diagnostic accuracy, identifying prognostic factors, evaluating treatment effectiveness, and preventing long-term complications.
Particular attention is given to comorbid conditions and multi-organ involvement, including cardiovascular and skeletal complications of chronic inflammatory diseases. The Department contributes to national patient registries, participates in the development of criteria for biologic therapies, and promotes personalized approaches to the management of pediatric rheumatic diseases.
Research findings support evidence-based prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care strategies for children and adolescents with rheumatologic and cardiovascular disorders.
