Inflammatory joint diseases such as psoriatic arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis can lead to chronic pain, impaired mobility, and long-term disability. My research program aims to improve how these diseases are diagnosed, monitored over time, and treated, with the goal of improving outcomes and quality of life for patients.
The first pillar of the program focuses on diagnosis. Early identification of inflammatory arthritis is challenging because symptoms such as back pain are common and may also arise from mechanical or degenerative conditions. My research studies clinical features, imaging findings, and other disease markers to improve diagnostic accuracy, with particular attention to the role of magnetic resonance imaging.
The second pillar focuses on disease course and monitoring. These conditions vary substantially between patients. By combining clinical data with imaging and genetic information, we aim to better understand disease progression and develop tools for more precise monitoring.
The third pillar addresses treatment and outcomes. While modern therapies control inflammation in many patients, persistent symptoms remain common. My research explores factors influencing treatment response and strategies to improve long-term outcomes.
Denis Poddubnyy, MD, PhD, MSc (Epi), is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto and Senior Scientist at the Schroeder Arthritis Institute at UHN. His clinical and research work focuses on early diagnosis, treatment, and imaging in spondyloarthritis and psoriatic arthritis. He has authored over 300 publications and is an active member of ASAS, GRAPPA, and SPARTAN. Dr. Poddubnyy is leading projects aimed at advancing precision medicine and improving patient outcomes in inflammatory arthritis.
- Professor, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto
- Full Member, Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto