Scientific Associate in Rheumatology at Hatzikosta Hospital of Ioannina, Greece
Dr. Eleftherios Pelechas is a distinguished rheumatologist, scientific associate, and researcher currently affiliated with the Hatzikosta General Hospital of Ioannina in Greece. His academic path and professional journey reflect a deep commitment to advancing the field of rheumatology and internal medicine. With an impressive academic and research background, Dr. Pelechas has become a notable contributor to scientific literature, particularly in the areas of rheumatic and autoimmune diseases. Beyond clinical practice, his expertise also encompasses musculoskeletal ultrasonography, teaching, and medical writing, enriching both professional and academic communities through lectures, peer-reviewed publications, and book chapters.
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Education
Dr. Pelechas completed his medical studies at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa” in Iași, Romania, where he earned his “Doctor Medic” diploma with an excellent grade. He furthered his academic qualifications with a PhD in Epidemiology, focusing on gastroesophageal reflux disease, and a Master’s degree in Healthcare Management from the Open University of Cyprus. His education also includes a certification in Medical Acupuncture from the Greek Institute of Acupuncture, and specialized musculoskeletal ultrasound training under the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR). His educational pursuits highlight a versatile background, combining clinical excellence with healthcare management and diagnostic imaging expertise.
Experience
Dr. Pelechas’ professional journey spans a wide spectrum of medical settings, from rural healthcare units and military medical service to internal medicine departments and specialized rheumatology centers. He has worked in both Greek and UK hospitals, including Scarborough General Hospital and the University Hospitals of Leicester, gaining extensive emergency care and internal medicine experience. His role at the Rheumatology Department of the University Hospital of Ioannina honed his specialization in autoimmune diseases. Currently, as a scientific associate at Hatzikosta General Hospital and through his private practice, he applies his wide-ranging expertise in clinical rheumatology, providing comprehensive patient care while continuing his academic involvement.
Research Interest
Dr. Pelechas’ research is deeply rooted in the study of rheumatic and autoimmune diseases, with particular emphasis on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of these conditions. His work often explores the interface between systemic inflammation and comorbidities like cancer and cardiovascular disorders, and he maintains a strong interest in musculoskeletal ultrasonography as a diagnostic and monitoring tool. His involvement in more than 70 research projects and collaboration with multiple university centers demonstrates his commitment to fostering both clinical and translational research in rheumatology.
Award
Throughout his career, Dr. Pelechas has received notable recognition for his contributions to the field. A highlight is the award from the National Academy of Athens for the “Illustrated Handbook of Rheumatic and Musculo-Skeletal Diseases,” a landmark publication that reflects his dedication to medical education and the dissemination of clear, comprehensive clinical knowledge. His nomination for research awards and his participation in international congresses and scientific advisory boards underscore his recognized status within the academic community.
Publications
Dr. Pelechas has authored several impactful papers and books. Among them:
Pelechas E, Azoicai D. “Improvement of Gastroesophageal reflux in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea treated with continuous positive airway pressure,” J Gastrointestin Liver Dis, 2012; cited by 25 articles.
Pelechas E, Azoicai D. “Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: epidemiological data, symptomatology and risk factors,” Rev Med Chir Soc Med Nat Iasi, 2013; cited by 19 articles.
Pelechas E, Antoniadis A. “A comparative study of job satisfaction between two regional hospitals in Greece,” Arch Hellen Med, 2013; cited by 15 articles.
Pelechas E, Azoicai D. “Impact of nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure on Heart Rhythm in patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea/Hypopnea syndrome,” Minerva Med, 2014; cited by 18 articles.
Pelechas E, Tsigaridas N et al. “Hospitalized elderly patients due to infection and factors associated with mortality,” Medical Annals of Northwestern Greece, 2014; cited by 20 articles.
Pelechas E, Kaltsonoudis E, Voulgari PV, Drosos AA. “Unmet needs in the treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis,” presented at ACR Annual Meeting, 2018; cited by 35 articles.
Pelechas E, Kaltsonoudis E, Voulgari PV, Drosos AA. “Maintained Clinical Remission in Ankylosing Spondylitis patients switched from reference Infliximab to its biosimilar,” EULAR Congress Abstracts, 2019; cited by 12 articles.
Conclusion
Dr. Eleftherios Pelechas’s career reflects the qualities of a truly distinguished researcher: intellectual curiosity, dedication to advancing patient care, and continuous scholarly productivity. His contributions to both the academic world and clinical practice stand as a testament to his commitment to excellence in rheumatology research. Through his extensive publication record, teaching, participation in scientific congresses, and ongoing research collaborations, Dr. Pelechas has significantly enriched the field and served as a mentor and model for future researchers. His work has laid new groundwork in the understanding of autoimmune and rheumatic diseases, making him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award.