As a clinician and pediatric researcher, Dinushan Kaluarachchi, MBBS (Assistant Professor, Division of Neonatology & Newborn Nursery), is working to help preterm infants achieve their best potential in life. The focus of his clinical and epidemiological research is to better understand neonatal diseases, specifically thyroid hormone dysfunction in preterm infants. Kaluarachchi also studies the screening and management of patent ductus arteriosus and pulmonary hypertension in preterm infants.
“There are still gaps in knowledge and uncertainties as to the best ways to manage extremely preterm infants,” stated Kaluarachchi. “My goal is to advance knowledge and refine management strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes for extremely preterm infants.”
Kaluarachchi’s recent published work1,2 includes being lead author on a series of collaborative studies with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Newborn Screen Program. Findings from the studies will help better define postnatal age-adjusted thyroid stimulating hormone cutoffs for preterm infants and to standardize diagnosis of thyroid hormone dysfunction.
His engagement in independent, hypothesis-driven research in pediatrics recently led to a new honor: being peer-nominated and elected to the Society for Pediatric Research (SPR). As a newly elected member, Kaluarachchi will join an international society of multidisciplinary pediatric researchers. Membership marks the individual’s standing as an internationally recognized pediatric researcher. It also provides a gateway for investigators to enhance their own research through annual conferences and journal publications. This interdisciplinary communication fosters advancements in the field of pediatric research, and ultimately, in the treatment and care of children.
“I’m honored by this recognition, especially to receive this while working primarily as a clinician,” reflected Kaluarachchi on the announcement of his membership. “I’m also proud to receive this recognition as a Sri Lankan pediatrician.”
1Kaluarachchi DC, Eickhoff J, Dawe S, Allen D, Baker M. Detection of Congenital Hypothyroidism in Preterm Infants with Targeted Multiple Newborn Screening Program in Wisconsin. J Pediatr. 2019;207:220-225.
2Kaluarachchi DC, Eickhoff J, Dawe S, Allen D, Baker M. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Reference Ranges for Preterm Infants. Pediatrics. 2019;144:e20190290.