Mr. Matteo Palermo, Policlinico A. gemelli, Italy.
Matteo Palermo is an emerging medical scholar from Italy currently pursuing his medical degree at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome. With a dual high school diploma from Italy and the USA, he demonstrated academic brilliance early on, which has been consistently recognized through multiple national and institutional awards. His professional engagements span prestigious neurosurgical institutions, including the Mayo Clinic and the Carlo Besta Institute. Matteo has already authored multiple peer-reviewed research publications in top-tier neurological and neurosurgical journals, focusing on hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension, glioma imaging, and spinal hypotension treatment. His work reflects a commitment to clinical excellence, research depth, and global collaboration.
Profile
Google Scholar
🎓 Early Academic Pursuits
Matteo Palermo’s academic journey began with a deep commitment to excellence from a young age. Born and raised in Gravina in Puglia, Italy, he demonstrated a strong affinity for science and mathematics during his formative years at Liceo Scientifico Giuseppe Tarantino, earning a high school diploma in 2021. Matteo expanded his educational exposure internationally by attending Edgar High School in Wisconsin, USA, in 2018–2019, where he obtained a U.S. high school diploma and participated in national-level mathematics competitions, securing 29th place out of 50 participants. His early achievements laid a robust foundation for his future in medicine, strengthened by recognition from the Italian Ministry of Education and supported by a €16,000 academic grant.
🏥 Professional Endeavors
Currently pursuing a degree in medicine at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome (2021–2027), Matteo has actively immersed himself in professional experiences that transcend academic learning. His early exposure to clinical environments began with prestigious internships and observerships in neurosurgery at globally renowned institutions. In 2024, he joined the Mayo Clinic in Rochester under the mentorship of Dr. Giuseppe Lanzino. His long-term neurosurgical internship at the Carlo Besta Institute in Milan, led by Dr. Francesco Prada, further reinforced his dedication to neurological sciences. Matteo also trained under Dr. Alessandro Olivi at Gemelli Hospital in 2025, engaging directly with surgical innovation and patient care.
🧠 Contributions and Research Focus
Matteo’s passion for neurosurgery is reflected in his impressive contributions to academic research. He has co-authored several high-impact studies, often in collaboration with experts like Dr. Trevisi, Dr. Prada, and Dr. Sturiale. His work delves into intricate neurological conditions such as idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and idiopathic intracranial hypertension, particularly in pregnancy—addressing both clinical and surgical dimensions. His research on advanced neuroimaging techniques, including superb microvascular ultrasound in gliomas, stands at the frontier of neuro-oncological diagnostics. His recent meta-analyses, including one on targeted versus nontargeted epidural blood patches for spontaneous intracranial hypotension, showcase a methodological precision and a deep commitment to evidence-based practice.
🏅 Accolades and Recognition
Throughout his academic journey, Matteo has received numerous honors that highlight his consistent excellence. He was awarded the Best Medical Student Award at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, and 2025), an acknowledgment of both academic prowess and professional dedication. His distinction as the Faculty Representative of the Medicine and Surgery degree course in 2025 demonstrates his leadership qualities and the trust vested in him by peers and faculty alike. Earlier accolades, such as the Italian Student Excellence Award by the Ministry of Education and Excellence Student Awards during high school, further underline a pattern of sustained high achievement.
🌐 Impact and Influence
Matteo’s work in neurosurgery has begun to make a visible impact not only through scholarly publications but also through his collaborative roles in high-profile research institutions. His systematic reviews and responses in respected journals like Neurosurgical Review, European Journal of Neurology, and Acta Neurochirurgica have contributed to shaping current conversations around neurointerventions and treatment strategies. As a global research intern and contributor, Matteo’s growing influence is expanding beyond national borders, signaling a future as a thought leader in neuroclinical research.
📚 Legacy and Future Contributions
Even at this early stage, Matteo Palermo is carving out a promising legacy in the field of neuroscience and neurosurgery. His clear focus on integrating research, clinical application, and surgical excellence positions him as a future pioneer in the treatment of complex neurological conditions. With a solid base in both European and American medical systems and mentorship under globally respected neurosurgeons, Matteo’s future contributions are likely to influence neurosurgical standards, patient outcomes, and cross-disciplinary innovations for years to come.
🌟 Vision for Medical Research
Driven by a mission to bridge gaps between clinical neurosurgery and translational neuroscience, Matteo’s research vision is both ambitious and impactful. His ongoing focus on refining diagnostic and therapeutic techniques—particularly through systematic analysis and technological innovation—reflects a strong alignment with the future of precision medicine. Whether advancing shunt technologies for hydrocephalus or exploring maternal-fetal outcomes in neurological conditions, his commitment to enhancing the quality of care and knowledge dissemination is at the heart of his scholarly identity.
Publication
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Advancing treatment strategies for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus: a systematic review on studies comparing ventricular and lumbo-peritoneal shunts
M. Palermo, G. Trevisi, F. Signorelli, F. Doglietto, A. Albanese, A. Olivi, …
2025
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Targeted Versus NonTargeted Epidural Blood Patch for Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
M. Palermo, C.L. Sturiale, S. D’Arrigo, G. Trevisi
2025
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Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review on Clinical Course, Treatments, Delivery and Maternal‐Fetal Outcome
M. Palermo, G. Trevisi, S. D’Arrigo, C.L. Sturiale
2025
🏁 Conclusion
Matteo Palermo exemplifies the qualities of a future leader in the field of neurosurgery and neuroscience research. His early achievements, international exposure, and advanced research contributions mark him as an exceptional talent in academic medicine. With a solid foundation, continual academic distinction, and a vision for translational impact, Matteo is poised to make lasting contributions to the medical and scientific community. His trajectory strongly supports his candidacy for recognition, including honors such as the Best Researcher Award.