Since 2011, I have been working as a pediatrician in the Department of Pediatric Rheumatology at the Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC. After completing my specialization in pediatric rheumatology, I became a staff member in 2016, continuing my work in this field.

Together with my colleague, Merlijn van den Berg (fellow pediatrician), a specialized nurse, and a pediatric physiotherapist, we form a dedicated team providing care to children with autoimmune diseases, such as Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM). Beyond clinical and outpatient care, I am actively involved in research on autoimmune diseases.

Recently, I initiated a national study on the role of capillaroscopy in autoimmune diseases such as JDM and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Capillaroscopy is a painless and simple procedure that uses a digital magnifying glass to visualize the small blood vessels (capillaries) in the nailbed. The aim of this research is to determine whether the shape and structure of capillaries can aid in diagnosing these conditions and assessing disease severity. While this technique is well-studied in adults, much less is known about its application in children.

This study involves collaboration with LUMC Leiden, Erasmus MC Rotterdam, and WKZ Utrecht. Such teamwork is crucial for advancing medical care and achieving continuous improvements for children with these rare diseases.