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Dr. Susan Littman’s 36-year medical career stands as a testament to excellence in oncology, education, and patient care. Her journey from undergraduate studies to becoming a recognized leader in cancer treatment showcases a commitment to advancing healthcare and improving patient outcomes.
Dr. Littman’s academic journey began at Cornell University in Ithaca, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1976. She continued her studies at the State University of New York at Albany, obtaining a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology in 1985. This strong foundation in the biological sciences prepared her for medical school at Albany Medical College, where she graduated with her Doctor of Medicine degree in 1989.
Following medical school, Dr. Littman completed her internship and residency in Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern, then pursued a fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. This comprehensive training equipped her with the expertise needed for her specialized practice in oncology.
Dr. Littman is board-certified as an oncologist and currently serves as an internist and geriatrician for TeamHealth, based in Knoxville, Tennessee. TeamHealth, an innovative healthcare industry leader founded in 1979 and physician-led, was named among Newsweek’s America’s Greatest Workplaces in 2024 for its dedication to creating an environment centered on well-being, trust, and collaboration.
Throughout her career, Dr. Littman has developed extensive clinical experience in treating solid tumors, with particular expertise in gastrointestinal malignancies. She specializes in cancers affecting the pancreas, liver, biliary tract, colon, and rectum, as well as esophageal, anal, and neuroendocrine tumors. Her work also encompasses hereditary cancer predisposition and genetic assessment of tumors, making her a valuable resource for patients with complex oncological needs.
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Littman has significant experience in medical education and basic research. Her research interests include immunology, molecular biology, and biochemistry, with particular focus on DNA mismatch repair studies. This research is crucial for understanding both hereditary and sporadic cancer development when DNA repair mechanisms become deficient.
Dr. Littman’s commitment to education extends beyond her own learning. She previously served as an Assistant Professor in Medical Oncology at Jefferson Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University and taught at Duke University Hospital, her fellowship alma mater. This dual focus on patient care and education demonstrates her dedication to advancing the field of oncology through both practice and knowledge sharing.
Dr. Littman’s expertise has earned her recognition from numerous prestigious organizations. She maintains active memberships in the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Pennsylvania Medical Society, Pennsylvania Society of Oncology, American Medical Association, American Association for Cancer Research, American College of Physicians, and American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Her contributions to medical literature are substantial, with over 15 peer-reviewed articles and selected abstracts to her credit. Notable among her publications is the acclaimed “Recent Treatment Advances and Novel Therapies in Pancreas Cancer: A Review,” which has contributed significantly to the field’s understanding of pancreatic cancer treatment.
Dr. Littman’s exceptional work has been recognized with numerous awards, including:
- Leading Physicians of the World Top Hematologist and Oncologist 2014
- International Association of Healthcare Professionals Top Oncologist and Hematologist Specialist in Pennsylvania
- Professional of the Year in Oncology for both 2016 and 2017
- Multiple awards from the International Association of Top Professionals
- Recognition in the Top 100 Registry, Global Directory of Who’s Who, and Continental Who’s Who Registry
In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Littman hosts a podcast called “Picture of Health,” extending her educational mission to reach broader audiences. This platform allows her to share medical insights and health information with the public, continuing her lifelong commitment to education and patient advocacy.
Despite her demanding professional schedule, Dr. Littman maintains a well-rounded personal life. She enjoys gardening, ice skating, practicing yoga, and pursuing arts and crafts. These activities provide balance to her intensive medical career and demonstrate her commitment to overall well-being.
Dr. Susan Littman’s career exemplifies the highest standards of medical practice, combining clinical excellence, educational leadership, and research innovation. Her ongoing contributions to oncology continue to impact both the medical community and the patients she serves, making her a true leader in the field of cancer care and geriatric medicine.