Congratulations to Dr Lorraine Green, who has recently been awarded her PhD, supported by funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
Her research has broken new ground in the study of calcinosis (a condition in which calcium salts are deposited in the skin and other soft tissue) in connective tissue disease (CTD).
Dr Green’s PhD journey led her to explore the impact of calcinosis and develop an imaging outcome measure through an OMERACT initiative, an effort she is proudly leading. This initiative aims to establish a reliable method for assessing calcinosis, which will serve as a foundation for future research and improve clinical care. Her work underscores the importance of patient-centered assessments.
Dr Lorraine Green said: “Identifying the pivotal role of the patient’s voice in detecting and understanding the impact of calcinosis, proven more reliable than practitioner assessments, calls for refining our clinical care approach. This shift emphasises integrating safer imaging techniques to support early diagnosis and monitor the progression of this debilitating condition.
“I am excited to build on my PhD work, validating the first ultrasound-based definition of calcinosis and establishing a robust outcome measure for clinical trials. The deeper understanding of the clinical and imaging characteristics that influence the severity and impact of calcinosis will drive the development and evaluation of novel and targeted therapeutics. Thank you to all who have contributed to making this possible, and to those who continue this journey with me.”
Dr Green’s work represents a milestone in CTD research, focusing on safer imaging approaches to achieve earlier diagnoses and more accurate tracking of calcinosis. The research holds a promise for improving patient outcomes and stands as a testament to the dedication and innovation fostered by NIHR-supported projects and BRC resources.
Congratulations once again to Dr Lorraine Green on this remarkable achievement. We look forward to seeing her continued contributions to clinical research and to advancements in the treatment of calcinosis in CTD.
