Dr Debasis Patro
Pediatric Rheumatologist & Clinical Immunologist
He currently serves as an Pediatric and Adolescent Rheumatologist, Assistant Professor at IMS and SUM Hospital, where he leads specialized outpatient and inpatient services for children affected by lupus, vasculitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and other inflammatory disorders. With his compassionate and awareness-driven approach, he combines advanced clinical care with advocacy and education, thereby strengthening access to specialized pediatric rheumatology services across Odisha and beyond.
“Each child deserves an accurate diagnosis, timely care, and a chance to live a pain-free life”, says Dr Debasis Patro, Pediatric Rheumatologist and Clinical Immunologist at IMS and SUM hospital and Ankura Hospital Bhubaneswar.
A Journey of Purpose & Passion
Dr Debasis Patro’s journey into Pediatric Rheumatology is marked by deep curiosity and a steadfast commitment to helping children with complex, often misunderstood diseases. After completing his MBBS and MD in Pediatrics from M.K.C.G. Medical College, Berhampur (Odisha), he developed an interest in immune-related disorders during his tenure as a Senior Resident at AIIMS, Bhubaneswar.
A mentor in pediatric nephrology first introduced him to the inter section between nephrology and rheumatology, sparking his fascination with autoimmune diseases. His interest deepened during the COVID-19 pandemic through online sessions led by Dr Raju (SRCC Hospital, Mumbai) and Dr Anand P Rao (Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru) whose pioneering work in pediatric rheumatology and clinical immunology inspired him to specialize in this field.
Dr Patro went on to complete a Fellowship in Pediatric Rheumatology under Dr Anand P Rao at Manipal University, receiving advanced training at Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health and Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru.
According to Dr Patro, pediatric rheumatology encompasses autoimmune and auto inflammatory diseases beyond arthritis, conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. He follows an integrated approach to management, combining precision diagnostics, patient education, and emotional support to ensure families understand the need for long-term care.
He often describes rheumatologists as “the traffic policemen of medicine”, coordinating among multiple specialties to manage immune-mediated diseases affecting different organs. For him, pediatric care extends beyond pain control, it’s about restoring normalcy to childhood, enabling young patients to attend school, play, and grow without being defined by their illness.
“Treating a child’s immune disorder is not just about controlling inflammation; it’s about giving hope back to families”, reflects Dr Debasis Patro.
Approach to Clinical Excellence
Balancing his roles as clinician, academician, and mentor at IMS and SUM Hospital, Dr Patro demonstrates exceptional dedication to advancing pediatric rheumatology. He integrates advanced diagnostics, musculo skeletal ultrasound, and genetic testing to enhance diagnostic accuracy and optimize treatment outcomes.
His formal training in musculoskeletal ultrasound with Dr Sujata at Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi has enabled him to detect early inflammation, guide joint injections, and tailor therapies with precision. He emphasizes that modern technology and biologic therapies have transformed pediatric rheumatology — making early diagnosis and effective disease control achievable even in resource-limited settings.
Dr Patro has made significant academic contributions, presenting papers at various national and international conferences, publishing research in reputed journals such as Rheumatology and The Indian Journal of Pediatrics, and authoring five book chapters in 2024.
As Organizing Secretary of the 2024 National Conference of Pediatric Rheumatology held in Bhubaneswar, he played a pivotal role in bringing global experts to a national platform, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. He is an active member of professional societies including the Pediatric Rheumatology Society of India (PRSI), Indian Society of Primary Immunodeficiency, and Pediatric Rheumatology European Society (PReS) and Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA), reflecting his commitment to lifelong learning and contribution to the global pediatric rheumatology community.
Recognized for his expertise in managing rare disorders such as Hereditary Angioedema and Kawasaki Disease, Dr Patro serves as the regional contact for Odisha in their management. He also leads a motivated team inspiring young pediatricians to explore this developing subspecialty through early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care.
Future Vision
Dr Debasis Patro envisions establishing a comprehensive Department of Pediatric Rheumatology in Odisha, equipped with advanced clinical, laboratory, and research facilities. His mission is to ensure that every child receives world-class care, irrespective of geography or financial background.
He is deeply committed to expanding awareness among physicians, building stronger referral networks, and promoting collaboration between pediatric and adult rheumatologists to ensure smooth transition of care for adolescents with chronic conditions. He aims to bridge the gap between academic medicine and patient-centered care, harnessing technology, research, and teamwork to transform outcomes for children with autoimmune diseases.
“The strength of pediatric rheumatology lies in awareness, collaboration, and compassion, ensuring every child with an autoimmune disease receives timely care and a chance at a healthy life”, says Dr Debasis Patro.
