Deirdre I De Ranieri

Deirdre I De Ranieri, MD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, specializing in Pediatric Rheumatology. She practices clinically at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and serves as Fellowship Program Director and Director of Procedural Services within the Rheumatology division.

Education:

• MS: Washington and Lee University (1999)
• MD: Tulane University (2008)
• USSONAR: Ultrasound School of North America (2015)
• Internship: University of Chicago, Pediatrics (2009)
• Residency: University of Chicago, Pediatrics (2011)
• Fellowship: University of Chicago, Pediatric Rheumatology (2014)

Her research centers on Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (MSUS) applications, focusing on standardizing image acquisition/pathology grading, evaluating subclinical disease, and developing ultrasound-guided synovial biopsies for precision medicine. She also pursues medical education initiatives to expand fellowship training and provide outreach to underserved pediatric centers lacking rheumatology specialists.

Recent publications demonstrate expertise in pediatric autoimmune disease management, with emphasis on JIA biologics (e.g., golimumab), lupus adherence strategies, health disparities in lupus outcomes, and multidisciplinary approaches to rare conditions like pediatric erythromelalgia. These works highlight translational research bridging diagnostic innovation, therapeutic intervention, and equitable care delivery.

Scientific Awards:

• Healthcare Partner Award, Arthritis Foundation (2024)
• Pediatric Visiting Professorship Program, Rheumatology Research Foundation (2023)
• ACR Content Expert Panelist for Ultrasound Guidance (2023)
• Medical Honoree, Freedom of Movement Gala (2021)
• Rowland W Chang, MD MPH Award of Excellence (2021)
• Pediatric USSONAR Subcommittee Chair (2021)
• USSONAR Faculty Mentor (2019)
• Bucksbaum Institute Junior Faculty Scholar Award (2017)

As Fellowship Program Director, she mentors pediatric rheumatology trainees and secured grants to expand fellowship capacity and develop educational outreach programs for non-specialist pediatric centers. Her leadership in procedural services and ultrasound training has elevated clinical capabilities within the division.

She chairs the Pediatric Subcommittee of USSONAR (Ultrasound School of North American Rheumatologists) and co-leads the Ultrasound Subgroup of the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA), driving collaborative research and standardized ultrasound education across North America.