SUMMARY
Megan M. Sullivan, M.D., is a board-certified rheumatologist specializing in the treatment of people with vasculitis and VEXAS syndrome. VEXAS syndrome, also known as vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, autoinflammatory, somatic syndrome, is a genetic condition causing inflammation and blood problems. Dr. Sullivan researches the use of genetic data and precision medicine for this condition.
She also treats people with giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica. One-third of individuals with these conditions experience significant harmful reactions secondary to glucocorticoids. In addition, many of these patients do not achieve sustained remission and need long-term treatment past five years. Anticipating a patient's response to glucocorticoid therapy at the bedside improves a patient's outcome and decreases unnecessary side effects.
Predicting response to glucocorticoid treatment represents an unmet need. Dr. Sullivan's team plans to bridge that gap by understanding the pharmacogenetic underpinnings of glucocorticoid response in this population, which then may be modified as a generalizable solution for many other conditions that require use of these medicines.
Focus areas
- The Mayo Clinic Tapestry and biobank cohorts. Dr. Sullivan uses the Mayo Clinic Tapestry and biobank cohorts to evaluate genetic contributions to condition presentation, therapeutic response, and outcomes for people with giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica.
- Machine learning. Dr. Sullivan uses machine learning and natural language strategies for detailed and accurate data extraction from electronic health records.
- Treatment response and outcome. Dr. Sullivan improves the prediction of treatment response and outcome for people diagnosed with VEXAS syndrome.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Sullivan is a board-certified rheumatologist who treats people with vasculitis and VEXAS syndrome. Her research focuses on better understanding genetic factors in these conditions. Dr. Sullivan strives to explore how different genes affect a person's response to therapy, and she uses this information to improve treatment. By studying genetic data and other biological information from a group of individuals over time, her research team plans to tailor better treatment. This could involve adjusting medicine based on genetic insights or taking preventive steps for people who are at a higher risk of complications. Finally, Dr. Sullivan strives to turn research findings into useful plans that improve patient care and outcomes in real time.
Professional highlights
- Chair, Scientific Research Committee, International Cardio-Oncology Society, 2020-present.
- Mayo Clinic Investment for Extramural Grants Award, Mayo Clinic, 2024-2025.
- Educator of the Year, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 2022.
- Editor, Clinical Cardio-Oncology, 2019.