Research of Didem Saygin, MD

Didem Saygin, MD's research encompasses a clinic and research infrastructure dedicated to understanding the causes and improving the treatment of the inflammatory myopathies. These diseases, together termed myositis, are potentially devastating yet poorly understood autoimmune diseases that target the muscles of the body, and for which our treatments are inadequate. The clinic includes rheumatologists, neurologists, pulmonologists, dermatologists, and research personnel who work together to provide the best clinical care for patients with myositis while advancing the understanding of these diseases through clinical and translational studies. 

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In general terms, Saygin’s research focuses on improving the quality of life and longevity of individuals with myositis. Saygin has validated numerous myositis outcome measures including objective tools and patient-reported outcome measures in order to optimize the assessment of muscle strength and other disease-related symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and physical function in both clinical practice and therapeutic trials. She has particular interests in utilizing objective devices for myositis disease activity assessment, disease classification, understanding pain experienced by patients with myositis, and data harmonization across myositis registries. 

Active studies

Rush's Myositis Registry includes over 200 patients with confirmed diagnosis of myositis and has several active prospective studies funded through foundations, philanthropy, and federal grants. These active studies include but are not limited to the following:

Research opportunities for students and trainees

Over the years, Saygin has mentored many students, residents, and fellows who have become successful researchers and clinicians. She conducted studies on understanding the concerns and needs of rheumatology fellows during the pandemic and experiences of program directors and fellows with virtual fellowship recruitment. Her work also includes highlighting the unique challenges that international medical graduates experience through different platforms. She served as the chair of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Fellows-in-Training subcommittee and is currently co-chair of the ACR Knowledge Bowl. At the Rush Myositis Clinic, there could be several opportunities for clinical research and volunteer work that can be tailored based on the trainee’s prior experience and goals.