SUMMARY
Philip (Phil) R. Fischer, M.D., studies a variety of general pediatric issues. He participates in clinical studies of the physiology, management and outcomes of adolescent autonomic dysfunction, along with its associated chronic pain and chronic fatigue.
Dr. Fischer also studies nutritional problems: thiamin deficiency with beriberi in Cambodia, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies with rickets in Nigeria, and altered bone metabolism in the U.S. Dr. Fischer's research projects involve multidisciplinary teams with contributions from people with various levels of training and experience.
Focus areas
- Adolescent autonomic dysfunction
- Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome
- Chronic fatigue in adolescents
- Pediatric nutritional deficiencies: Vitamin D, calcium and thiamin
Significance to patient care
Past research has led to an awareness of congenital malaria as a significant clinical problem in Africa. International efforts, including those of Dr. Fischer, have subsequently focused on improving child health by better preventing and treating malaria in pregnant women.
The then-novel discovery that dietary calcium deficiency can cause rickets has subsequently led to better prevention and treatment of rickets. As a result of Dr. Fischer's research, there have been significant reductions in crippling bone disease in Nigeria, Bangladesh and other countries.
Dr. Fischer's work has contributed to an increased awareness of autonomic dysfunction as a cause of chronic fatigue in adolescents. This has prompted better diagnosis and management for tired teenagers, and as a result, thousands of adolescents now have lives with improved function.
Professional highlights
- Associate editor, Pediatrics in Review, 2015-present
- Editor, Paediatrics and International Child Health, 2013-present
- Associate editor, Revue Medicale des Grands Lacs (Congo), 2012
- Pediatric interest group chair, International Society of Travel Medicine, 2011-2014
- Distinguished alumnus, University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, 2008