Dori N. Abel, M.D.

Dori Nicole Abel, M.D., M.S.H.P., is a pediatric rheumatologist at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. Abel specializes in diagnosing and managing complex rheumatic diseases in children, focusing on conditions that impact musculoskeletal and immune health. Her clinical practice integrates musculoskeletal ultrasound, joint injections, and advanced treatment strategies tailored to each child's unique needs.

Dr. Abel approaches care with a commitment to shared decision-making, combining clinical experience with the latest research. She partners closely with families to help children with rheumatic diseases live full, meaningful lives.

Areas of expertise

Dr. Abel provides individualized care to children with a wide range of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Her expertise includes:

• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Comprehensive care for varying disease presentations and support for long-term disease management
• Juvenile dermatomyositis: Specialized diagnosis and treatment for systemic muscle and skin inflammation in children
• Systemic lupus erythematosus and related connective tissue diseases: evaluation and management of systemic lupus erythematosus, mixed connective tissue disease, and systemic sclerosis
• Chronic noninfectious osteomyelitis: Diagnosis and treatment strategies to reduce pain and improve bone health and function
• Pediatric vasculitis: Tailored approaches for managing inflammation of blood vessels in children
• Autoinflammatory conditions: Care for periodic fever syndromes and related disorders
• Localized scleroderma (morphea): Assessment and treatment options for skin and soft tissue involvement

Clinical procedures include:

• Musculoskeletal ultrasound: Advanced imaging to monitor disease activity and guide treatment
• Joint injections: Targeted therapies to control local inflammation, restore joint mobility, and relieve discomfort

Research and expertise

Dr. Abel is board-certified in pediatrics and pediatric rheumatology by the American Board of Pediatrics. She completed her medical degree at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by residency at New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital and fellowship training at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. In addition, she earned a Master of Science in Health Policy Research from the University of Pennsylvania.

Her research focuses on medication adherence, health equity, and improving care outcomes for children with rheumatic diseases. Dr. Abel has led quality improvement initiatives designed to reduce disparities in pediatric rheumatology and published extensively in leading journals.

Personal note

Outside of work, Dr. Abel enjoys staying active (especially outdoors), traveling, and spending quality time with her husband and son.