H. Michael Belmont, MD

Understanding the complex workings of the human body has been my passion since high school, leading me to major in microbiology at Harvard College. Today, as a rheumatologist at NYU Langone, I am dedicated to diagnosing and managing autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, lupus nephritis, antiphospholipid syndrome, and systemic vasculitis.

My role at NYU Langone extends beyond patient care. I serve as co-director of the Lupus Center, director of the Bellevue Hospital Lupus Clinic, and medical director of the Rheumatology Faculty Group Practice and Infusion Center at the Center for Arthritis and Autoimmunity. These roles allow me to ensure that our patients receive coordinated, seamless care, which is crucial when managing chronic conditions.

Throughout my career, I have been actively involved in groundbreaking research aimed at understanding the mechanisms of vascular injury. My work focuses on the role of the complement system—a series of proteins that help or “complement” the immune system which is intended to aid in the defense against and destruction of microbes, but in autoimmune conditions can unintentionally contribute to organ damage. My research interests also include exploring a role for adhesion molecules, nitric oxide, and endothelial cells in systemic lupus erythematosus, lupus nephritis, and antiphospholipid syndrome. I have served as principal or co-investigator in multiple lupus and lupus nephritis trials, including those exploring the use of complement inhibitors for lupus nephritis.

My journey into medicine began at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where my interest in autoimmune diseases was sparked. An elective at the National Institutes of Health further reinforced my desire to focus on disorders resulting from immune-mediated inflammation. Today, I am a member of the Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Alliance for Clinical Trials and International Networking (APS-ACTION), further demonstrating my dedication to advancing the field of rheumatology.

I am committed to providing compassionate care while pursuing a greater understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of autoimmune conditions. My goal is to ensure my patients receive the most effective personalized treatment while contributing to the broader understanding and treatment of autoimmune diseases.