SUMMARY
The research of Andrea J. Boon, M.D., focuses on the use of ultrasound to enhance the electrodiagnostic evaluation and noninvasive diagnosis of neuromuscular disease.
She studies the role of platelet exosomes and regenerative medicine in the management of painful musculoskeletal conditions including arthritis and tendinopathy. Platelet exosomes are materials that are secreted by platelets. This material can be injected into the body to manage various conditions.
Focus areas
- Platelet exosome effect on pain and function in osteoarthritis and tendinopathy.
- Diagnostic nerve and muscle ultrasound as a complement to electrophysiological testing.
- Diagnostic diaphragm ultrasound in respiratory disorders.
- Relative risk of bleeding associated with needle electromyography in people taking anticoagulants.
- Electrophysiological findings in critical illness myopathy.
Significance to patient care
Ultrasound is a people-friendly, cost-effective bedside tool that is used to diagnose and follow nerve and muscle irregularities. These problems include myopathy, motor neuron irregularities and inflammatory neuropathies.
There are new treatments available for previously untreatable neuromuscular disorders, making specific and sensitive biomarkers especially important.
Platelet exosomes decrease pain and improve function in osteoarthritis and tendinopathy. Platelet exosomes are used in people who have failed cortisone injections or are not candidates for joint replacement surgery.
Professional highlights
- Editorial board, Muscle & Nerve, 2016-present.
- National Health Information Award, Health Information Resource Center, 2021.
- Best pediatric research paper, American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2018.
- President's Research Initiative Award, American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine, 2014.
- Best abstract, International Congress of Clinical Neurophysiology, 2013.
- Best abstract, American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine, 2010.
- Mayo Brothers Distinguished Fellowship Award, Mayo Clinic, 1998.