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Our canine colleague celebrates his 2nd birthday!
Pet therapy is progressively becoming part of hospital life where it is increasingly appreciated. The practice uses interactions with animals to improve the health and well-being of patients, both physically and psychologically. At the Erasmus Hospital, Yuki brings joy to patients and staff alike. Our four-legged friend joined the team at the intensive care unit 2 years ago, on 25 December 2022. A heartwarming story for this festive season!  Pet therapy:  many benefitsAt the H.U.B., non-pharmacological approaches to managing stress, pain and more widely the quality of life of patients in intensive care is of primordial importance. Every Sunday Yuki spends quality time with each patient who wishes to see him while never forgetting the animal’s welfare. The presence of an animal has a calming effect, soothing anxiety. It also benefits the physical and emotional health of patients by reducing their sense of isolation. Patients can simply spend a little time with him, stroking and patting him and also playing with him in a way that requires some basic but important movements.  Yuki has already helped 110 of our patients in this way. A very strict hygiene protocol is of course respected prior to each hospital visit and between visits to each patient.    Tika, the neighbour at the Children’s HospitalSupported by the H.U.B, Claire, a nurse at the Erasmus Hospital and initiator of the Yuki project, has now built on the same initiative at the Children’s Hospital where she has organised the arrival of Tika, a Dachshund puppy aged 8 months. Tika is currently being trained with a dog trainer familiar with the hospital environment and animal-assisted therapy and is now slowly starting her bedside visits to our young patients. Like Yuki, she is beginning at the intensive care unit. Her presence in a  paediatric care environment is having the same positive impact: reduction of stress and anxiety, improved mood, emotional support, stimulation of social interaction and assistance with rehabilitation for our young patients. 
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Best wishes!
We wish you a very happy festive season!
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Preterm infants: neurodevelopmental follow-up
“Henri Sliwowski” Reference Centre for the neurodevelopmental follow-up of children born very preterm.  Image The Reference Centre Follow-up of very preterm infants: essential support for a brighter futureThe birth of a very preterm infant is both a profoundly challenging and hopeful experience. Thanks to remarkable progress in paediatric medicine, the survival chances of babies born before 32 weeks of pregnancy or weighing less than 1,500 grams have improved considerably.However, these advances come with new challenges: such children remain at increased risk of developing motor, cognitive, and socio-emotional difficulties, as well as behavioural disorders or sensory impairments.This is why specific and regular follow-up is essential. It not only allows potential difficulties to be detected at an early stage, but also provides the opportunity to introduce tailored solutions that support the child’s future development.This programme is designed to give children born very preterm the best possible chance to thrive, while offering families reassurance and support tailored to their needs.%20secmed [dot] neuroped [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Envoyer un message) Care that keeps pace with medical progress Follow-up is based on a multidisciplinary approach that brings together various experts: paediatricians, a paediatric neurologist, physiotherapists, psychomotor therapists, speech and language therapists, and neuropsychologists.The follow-up includes four assessments (A, B, C, D) scheduled at 6 months, 1 year, 2.5 years and 5 years of age.If further follow-up is required, doctors will refer you to external therapists (speech therapist, physiotherapist, psychomotor therapist, psychologist), depending on your child’s specific needs.  The aim is to intervene as early as possible in order to: Stimulate motor development in cases of delay or motor difficulties.Promote harmonious cognitive development, particularly in the presence of learning difficulties.Support parent–child interactions to help prevent potential relational difficulties.Monitor sensory abilities, such as vision and hearing, which may be affected by prematurity.Recent studies confirm that early screening, combined with prompt intervention, can significantly improve the quality of life of both children and their families. Dr Florence Christiaens PHU – Department of Paediatric Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire de BruxellesPhysician, Paediatric Neurology, Specialist in Rehabilitation"The follow-up of very preterm infants is a genuine breakthrough in child health. It represents an essential safety net, ensuring that these fragile children receive optimal development and tailored support to meet their needs.Your child has already shown incredible strength by coming into the world earlier than expected. With this follow-up, you can be confident that they will receive the support needed to grow and flourish, step by step, by your side." Prendre rendez-vous  Image A team of specialists by your side Vojtech Stejskal, Ludovic Legros – NeonatologistsFlorence Christiaens – Paediatric NeurologistBrigitte de Bast, Anne Goffart, Anne Soquay – PhysiotherapistsMorgane Colin, Camille Schlogel – Neuropsychologists / PsychologistsMarie-Amélie Ponteville – Speech and Language Therapist Partners The activity of the accredited centre for the follow-up of very preterm infants, Henri Szliwowski, takes place on two sites: the H.U.B. (Erasme site) and Delta.Children born at the HUDERF are seen for their follow-up at the Erasme Hospital. In collaboration withLe service de néonatologie de l’H.U.B( Situé sur les 2 sites: Anderlecht et Laeken)  et de l’hôpital DeltaLe centre de référence pour l’IMOC ou CIRICULes centres de références pour les pathologies du spectre autistiqueLes divers centres privés proposant kinésithérapie neurologique, psychomotricité et logopédieCentre de référence en pathologie autistique, CRFNI, Centre IMOCPublished articles- Dev Med Child Neurol 2018 Apr;60(4):342-355.  doi: 10.1111/dmcn.13675.- Eur J Paediatr Neurol. 2020 Sep:28:133-141 doi: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2020.06.007. Epub 2020 Jul 16- J Pediatr 2023 Nov:262:113600. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.113600. Epub 2023 Jul 2. FAQ Qu’est ce qu’un enfant grand prématuré Un enfant enfants né avant 32 semaines de grossesse ou pesant moins de 1,5 kg à la naissance. Qu’est-ce que la "convention des enfants nés grands prématurés C’est un programme d’évaluation du neurodéveloppement proposé par l’INAMI pour les enfants nés avant 32 semaines de grossesse ou pesant moins de 1,5 kg à la naissance. Il offre 4 bilans pour suivre leur développement.   Pourquoi mon enfant a-t-il besoin de ces bilans La prématurité expose les enfants à des risques de retard de développement moteur, cognitif et socio-émotionnel, ainsi qu’à des troubles du comportement ou des déficits sensoriels. Un suivi bien structuré vise à :Détecter précocement les troubles du développement (retard moteur, troubles de l’apprentissage, déficits sensoriels).Orienter rapidement les enfants vers des spécialistes et des prises en charge adaptées.Prévenir ou limiter les conséquences à long terme de la prématurité grâce à des interventions précoces.Accompagner les parents dans leur rôle, en identifiant et en soutenant les éventuelles difficultés relationnelles entre eux et leur enfant. À quels moments ont lieu les bilans ? - 6 mois (Bilan A) - 1 an (Bilan B) - 2,5 ans (Bilan C) - 5 ans (Bilan D)  En quoi consiste un bilan ? Vous rencontrerez des paramédicaux spécialisés comme des kinésithérapeutes, logopède et psychologues. Ils évalueront le développement moteur, cognitif et langagier de votre enfant.  Les médecins spécialistes, néonatologues, neuropédiatres évalueront également votre enfant au niveau clinique et vous remettrons et expliqueront les résultats de ces évaluations. Si nécessaire, ils vous adresseront à des thérapeutes extérieurs (logopède, kinésithérapeute, psychomotricien, psychologue), en fonction des besoins de votre enfant. Des examens complémentaires seront proposés pourront également être prescris Mon enfant se porte bien, est-ce vraiment nécessaire ? Oui. La majorité des enfants vont bien, mais certains troubles apparaissent tardivement. Grâce à ce programme, chaque étape de développement est surveillée avec attention, les paramédicaux et médecins que vous rencontrerez peuvent détecter un trouble de développement même minime ce qui va permettre d’agir rapidement si nécessaire. Les progrès de la médecine pédiatrique offrent aujourd’hui des perspectives incroyablement positives, et votre rôle en tant que parent est essentiel dans ce processus. Combien coûtent les bilans Les bilans sont presque entièrement pris en charge par votre mutuelle. Vous n’aurez que peu ou pas de frais à payer.  Que faire si un problème est détecté ? Si un suivi est nécessaire, les médecins vous orienteront vers des spécialistes (logopède, kinésithérapeute, psychologue) pour aider votre enfant à progresser. Des examens complémentaires pourront également être prescris (audiométrie de contrôle, examen en ophtalmologie, imagerie cérébrale, …) Comment serai-je informé des rendez-vous ? Vous recevrez toutes les informations sur la convention pendant le séjour de votre enfant en néonatologie. Nous vous rappellerons ensuite pour planifier les rendez-vous.  Qui participe aux bilans ? Bilan A et B : Néonatologue, kinésithérapeute, psychologue/neuropsychologue. Bilan C : Neuropédiatre, kinésithérapeute, psychologue/neuropsychologue. Bilan D : Neuropédiatre, logopède, kinésithérapeute, psychologue/neuropsychologue.  A qui puis-je poser mes questions ou demander de l’aide ? Pendant votre séjour en néonatologie, les médecins et infirmières, pourront répondre à vos questions. Notre psychologue, Mme Colin organise une réunion d’information 2x par mois (à l’Hôpital Erasme), elle sera votre point de contact. N’hésitez pas à poser vos questions ou à demander plus d’informations lors de cette rencontre.  Vous pouvez également contacter les secrétaires qui organisent les rendez-vous des suivis dans cette conventionMme Hiquet et Mme Lucaciu au 02-5556733 ou 02-5556978En tant que parent, il est normal d’être inquiet ou de se poser des questions face à l’inconnu. Sachez que ce suivi est là pour vous épauler, pas pour vous alarmer. Il s’agit d’un accompagnement bienveillant et personnalisé, destiné à garantir le meilleur avenir possible à votre enfant.
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Blue Marsh : Fast-track diagnosis for colorectal cancer at the H.U.B
Essential screening : every year more than 8,000 Belgians, men and women, are diagnosed with colorectal cancer.  For more than a year now, the teams at the Gastroenterology and Digestive Oncology Department at the Erasmus Hospital and Jules Bordet Institute have been proposing a new fast-track diagnosis for colorectal cancer. This is exclusively for patients showing warning signs, testing positive for the presence of blood in the stools or considered to be high risk. Also, on the occasion of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, on 26 and 27 March a giant colon will be erected in the lobby of the Erasmus Hospital and Jules Bordet Institute. Professionals from our institutions will accompany you as you discover this organ and increase your awareness of the importance of screening for colorectal cancer.   Essential screeningEvery year more than 8,000 Belgians, men and women, are diagnosed with colorectal cancer. In 90 % of cases they are aged over 50. One third of these people will die of the disease because they detected it too late. Yet if detected in time, 90% of colorectal cancers can be cured. Given these reassuring recovery figures, our professionals decided to launch fast-track diagnosis for patients showing warning signs or with a high level of risk. Colonoscopy screening is essential as it makes it possible to identify a colorectal cancer as early as possible, thereby reducing mortality by 50%. In addition to the diagnosis, a colonoscopy is also of therapeutic value as it makes it possible to detect the cancer at an early stage or prevent its occurrence by removing colorectal polyps as well as any very early cancers.   Who are candidates for a colonoscopy?Among the general population, the risk becomes significant after the age of 50. The over-50s can be screened easily by testing for the presence of blood in the stools. This test is proposed by your Region through a personal invitation sent out every two years   (Brussels : www.Bruprev.be; Wallonia : www.ccref.org; Flanders: https://www.cvko.vlaanderen/) If you are considered to be at risk (hereditary mutation such as familial adenomatous polyoposis or Lynch syndrome, personal or family history of colorectal cancer and /or polyps, inflammatory disease of the digestive tube – Crohn’s disease of ulcerative colitis) or if you show warning signs such as an unexplained and lasting change in bowel movements, abdominal pain or unexplained weight loss, you can make an appointment with our professionals who will quickly book a colonoscopy for you. Gastroenterology consultation:Jules Bordet Institute +32 (0)2 541 34 80Erasmus +32 (0)2 555 35 04Screening consultation Jules Bordet Institute (if no symptoms) : +32 (0)2 541 30 00A giant colon to boost public awarenessMarch is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. On this occasion, the Erasmus Hospital and the Jules Bordet Institute will be displaying a giant colon. With health professionals on hand to explain, you can step inside the structure to discover the organ, in 3D, and better understand why and how to protect yourself against colorectal cancer, one of Belgium’s most lethal cancers. Make it a date: Wednesday 26 March between 9 am and 4 pm at the Erasmus Hospital and Thursday 27 March between 9 am and 4 pm at the Jules Bordet Institute.   
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Risks of screen exposure for children
To protect the eye health of younger children, consider other options. Risks Excessive screen time can pose several risks to children, both physically and mentally. Spending too much time in front of a screen can lead to eye problems, such as eye strain, and disrupt their sleep cycle, increasing the risk of sleep disorders. Moreover, prolonged screen use can hinder children's social and emotional development by limiting face-to-face interactions and fostering isolation. Additionally, constant exposure to inappropriate or violent content can negatively impact their behavior and psychological well-being. Therefore, it is essential to limit screen time and encourage activities that promote balanced development. Alternatives There are many alternatives to screens that entertain children while stimulating their creativity, motor skills, and social interactions. For example, reading books fosters language development and imagination, while offering a moment of calm. Board games are also an excellent option to strengthen family bonds and promote cooperation or healthy competition. Outdoor activities, such as biking, hiking, or ball games, are ideal for improving physical fitness and spending time in nature. Additionally, creative activities like drawing, painting, or making music help children express their emotions and develop their creative minds. Finally, spending time with other children, whether playing in a park or participating in group activities, enhances their social skills and emotional development. These alternatives are essential to provide a balance between digital activities and those that foster healthy development. Ophthalmology Paediatric ophthalmology
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Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury- Symposium
Symposium – Organized by the Neurosurgery, Pediatrics, Neuropediatrics, and Intensive Care departments of the H.U.B November 7, 2025 Registration for the Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury Symposium – November 7, 2025 Registration  Inscriptions ICIProgram The full programPractical InformationDate: November 7, 2025Time: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PMVenue: Museum of Medicine, ULB-HUB, Erasme Hospital808 Route de Lennik, 1070 BrusselsRegistrationRegistration link coming soon✔ Accreditation requested for ethics and economics.This symposium is organized by the Neurosurgery, Pediatrics, Neuropediatrics, and Intensive Care departments of H.U.BFees:Medical Professionals: €60Paramedical Professionals and Students: €20ContactFor any inquiries, please contact us at: Symposium [dot] Paeds [dot] Neurosurgery [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Symposium[dot]Paeds[dot]Neurosurgery[at]hubruxelles[dot]be)Prof. Olivier De WitteDr. Viviana Minichini
Health issues
Fertility Imaging
What is fertility imaging? These are medical examinations using ultrasound or X-ray imaging to understand infertility or to perform a fertility assessment. Medical services Endovaginal UltrasoundPelvic ultrasound is the first exam performed to assess female reproductive organs. It is performed using a probe inserted vaginally. The number of small follicles, called “antral follicles,” in each ovary is counted. This number provides an idea of your ovarian reserve, i.e., your potential response in case of ovarian stimulation.Several pathologies associated with infertility are also checked:Uterus: presence of fibroids, polyps, or congenital anomalies such as a septum.Ovaries: detection of cysts, particularly related to endometriosis.Fallopian tubes: assessment for hydrosalpinx, commonly called “dilated tube.”This ultrasound is usually performed in the first days of the menstrual cycle.SIS (Saline Infusion Sonography or Hysterosonography)This exam allows visualization of your uterine cavity (endometrium) and uterine walls (myometrium). It is ideally performed at the end of your period, before the 11th day of your cycle. You are positioned gynecologically, and after vaginal disinfection, a soft catheter is placed in the uterus to instill saline solution to detect possible intrauterine pathologies causing infertility. The sonographer explains each step during the exam.HyFoSy (Hysterosalpingo-foam-sonography)This exam is performed in gynecological position after vaginal disinfection to evaluate the patency of the fallopian tubes and detect any pathologies that could explain infertility. It is performed at the end of your period, before the 11th day of your cycle. It requires the injection of a specific foam gel (ExEm® Foam) using a soft balloon catheter placed inside your uterus.It is recommended to take a painkiller one hour before the exam, as it can be painful like heavy periods for some patients.Your prescribing physician will evaluate whether antibiotics are necessary before the exam. A PCR test for chlamydia or gonorrhea in the cervix or urine is useful for prevention. If a tubal pathology is discovered, the sonographer will reassess the need for antibiotics if it has not been done previously. The sonographer explains each step during the exam.Complete Fertility AssessmentThis exam first involves a complete endovaginal ultrasound, followed by a SIS. The catheter used for this exam remains in place and is used for the injection of ExEm® Foam. This allows visualization of both the inside of the uterus and the patency of the fallopian tubes in a single appointment. Ideally, it is performed before the 11th day of your cycle. Prophylactic antibiotics may be prescribed if necessary. It is also recommended to take a painkiller one hour before the exam.Assessment of Vascularization / Endometrial ReceptivityThis exam is proposed in cases of repeated embryo implantation failures.The sonographer examines the vascularization of your uterine arteries and the volume of your endometrium. This exam is ideally performed the week after ovulation or following a specific hormonal treatment prescribed by your gynecologist.If the results are abnormal, the sonographer may propose a treatment of at least three months before reassessing endometrial receptivity.During the second exam, a biopsy of your endometrium may be performed for histopathological analysis to detect acute endometritis. You can discuss with your doctor the relevance of this analysis in your specific case.HysterosalpingographyThis exam tests tubal patency and the shape of the uterine cavity. It takes place in the radiology department since it uses X-rays and contrast medium instilled into the uterus by a gynecologist. The radiologist interprets the images.It is performed at the same time of the cycle and with the same precautions as HyFoSy.It is now rarely prescribed since HyCoSy was developed. Advice Take a painkiller, such as an anti-inflammatory (e.g., Ibuprofen 400) or a spasmolytic like Buscopan, about 1 hour before the exam, as uterine contractions may occur during the procedures.Do not forget your written request signed by your prescribing physician. Focus Our fertility imaging team consists of gynecologists who are also part of the IVF team. You benefit from their dual expertise for detecting abnormalities and understanding your infertility. Our Specialists Appointment procedures for gynecological ultrasound (route 178):For evaluation ultrasounds, SIS, or HyFoSy: call 02/555.36.36 as soon as your period starts to schedule an appointment before the 11th day.For hysterosalpingography: call 02/555 33 12 as soon as your period starts to schedule an appointment before ovulation.Gynecology-Obstetrics ServiceDr. Margherita CONDORELLIDr. Noé MOUTARDDr. David PENINGDr. Mélodie VANDER BORGHTAssociated ServicesRadiology ServicePr SADEGHI MEIBODI NILOUFAR
Fertility Imaging
Health issues
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
What is intrauterine insemination? Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a simple assisted reproductive technique that involves placing a prepared sperm sample into the uterine cavity using a thin catheter. The goal of IUI is to facilitate the meeting of gametes (eggs and sperm) within the female reproductive tract. If the sperm used is from the partner, it is called homologous insemination (IAC); if donor sperm is used, it is called donor insemination (IAD).Who is intrauterine insemination intended for?IUI may be recommended in the following cases:Certain abnormalities of the cervix or cervical mucus.Mild or moderate endometriosis.Moderate sperm quality issues, such as reduced sperm count or motility.Erectile or ejaculation disorders of anatomical, neurological, or psychological origin.Idiopathic infertility, meaning no identifiable cause after fertility evaluation.When using donor sperm.Should ovarian stimulation be combined with intrauterine insemination?Ovarian stimulation aims to correct ovulation disorders and/or increase the number of pre-ovulatory follicles containing mature eggs. Stimulation increases the chances of pregnancy, but also the risks of multiple pregnancy and ovarian hyperstimulation. This treatment is available as oral tablets or subcutaneous injections. In the absence of female infertility factors, IUI without ovarian stimulation is preferred. Medical services What tests should you undergo before intrauterine insemination?The assessment includes:Blood tests for both partners.Semen analysis for the male partner.Examination of the uterine cavity and tubal patency using ultrasound or radiography (cf - Fertility Imaging)In practice:IUI should be scheduled on the day of ovulation.Ovulation monitoringDuring the first part of the menstrual cycle, regular blood tests, sometimes combined with transvaginal ultrasounds, confirm follicular maturation and determine the timing of ovulation or the need for ovulation triggering (via subcutaneous injection). In regular cycles, ovulation monitoring can initially be done using urine tests.Sperm preparationOn the day of IUI, a sperm sample is provided by the partner through masturbation, though in some cases, frozen sperm may be thawed. The laboratory prepares the sample to isolate the most fertilizing sperm. This preparation takes about one hour.In IUI-D, thawed donor sperm is used.The insemination procedureAfter placing a speculum and cleaning the cervix, the prepared sperm is injected into the uterine cavity using a thin catheter and syringe. The procedure lasts a few minutes and is generally painless. After about ten minutes of rest, you can resume normal activities.The luteal phaseDuring the first IUI cycle, a blood test is commonly performed one week after insemination to measure progesterone and ensure proper ovulation. If progesterone levels are insufficient and pregnancy has not occurred, progesterone supplementation will be systematically offered in subsequent cycles.Pregnancy testTwelve to fourteen days after insemination, a blood test determines the presence of an early pregnancy. A follow-up is scheduled the following week, followed by an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy progression.In case of failure, and depending on prior discussions with your doctor, you may undergo another IUI cycle or consult your physician to discuss other options. Our specialists Associated servicesGynecology-Obstetrics DepartmentPr. Anne DELBAEREPr. Fabienne DEVREKERDr. Soraya AMIRGHOLAMIDr. Elisabeth ANAGNOSTOUDr. Margherita CONDORELLIDr. Serge DE LATHOUWERDr. Michel DIKETEDr. Isabelle DUPONDDr. Oranite GOLDRATDr. Catherine HOUBADr. Christian KAMTO FOTSODr. Caroline LECOCQDr. Noé MOUTARDDr. David PENING Dr. Asma SASSIDr. Mélodie VANDER BORGHT 
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Health issues
Neurofibromatosis type 1
Description Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), also known as Von Recklinghausen syndrome, is a rare genetic disease. It is characterised in particular by skin anomalies such as birthmarks known as café au lait spots. Symptoms linked to the development of tumours along the nerves (neurofibromas) can occur and develop over time. The brain, eyes, bones and kidneys can be affected, to a variable degree but sometimes seriously.   Treatment This disease requires an early diagnosis, in early childhood, and must be monitored by a specialised multidisciplinary team. The Children’s Hospital has provided this follow-up for many years, in the form of regular and systematic consultations with a number of specialists. For the comfort of the children and their families these consultations are arranged on the same day and take place once a year, although sometimes more frequently depending on the age and particularities of the child. The monitoring begins before birth and continues through the growth years of childhood and into adulthood. As they reach adulthood a transition consultation can be arranged at the Erasmus Hospital. Patients can be prescribed innovative medicines, depending on their individual situation and in line with international recommendations. Our team works in close cooperation with other specialists and paramedical teams at the Children’s Hospital as well as with GPs and paediatricians, child therapists (physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, etc.), support services, respite care services, associations and psycho-medico-social centres.    Our specialists Children's patients (Children's Hospital)The multidisciplinary consultation is organised by the Neuroaediatrics Department (Co-ordinating doctor: Dr Anne Monier; Co-ordinating secretary: Ms Daniela Wayllace). Co-ordinating doctor and neuropaediatrician: Dr Anne MonierDermatologist: Dr Pamela El NemnomOphthalmologist: Dr Sophie LhoirOrthopaedist: Dr Jean-Paul KaleetaNephrologist: Dr Khalid IsmailiGeneticist: Dr Catheline VilainSecretary coordinator: Mrs Daniela Wayllace (02 477 39 67) Adult patients (Erasmus Hospital)The consultation is organised by the Neurology Department (Cons [dot] Neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be)Neurologist: Dr Chantal DepondtNeurologist: Dr. Gauthier RemicheNeurologist: Dr Michela Bisciglia 
Neurofibromatosis type 1
Health issues
Tuberous sclerosis
What is Tuberous sclerosis? Tuberous sclerosis, also known as Bourneville disease,  is a rare genetic disease characterised by the development of benign tumours principally affecting the brain, skin, eyes, kidneys, heart and lungs. The consequences are of variable severity but are potentially serious. There is a high risk of epilepsy and also retarded development, intellectual disability and autism when the brain is affected. There can also be a significant impact on health and quality of life when other organs are affected.  Treatment This disease requires an early diagnosis, in early childhood or even before birth, and monitoring by a specialised multidisciplinary team. This is arranged at the Children’s Hospital in the form of regular and systematic consultations with the various specialists. For the comfort of the children and their families the consultations are held on the same day and take place once a year, although sometimes more frequently depending on the age and particularities of the child. The monitoring begins before birth and continues through the growth years of childhood and into adulthood.   As they reach adulthood a transition consultation can be arranged at the Erasmus Hospital. An early screening for epilepsy, before the appearance of the first symptoms, is proposed systematically so as to avert the consequences. Depending on their individual situation, patients can benefit from innovative treatment in line with international recommendations. Our team cooperates closely with other specialists and paramedical teams  at the Children’s Hospital and with specialist teams, for epilepsy surgery in particular, if the child’s situation requires it. We network with GPs and paediatricians, child therapists (physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists etc.), support services, respite care services, associations and psycho-medico-social centres.    Specific care pathways Our team cooperates closely with national and international centres that care for persons with tuberous sclerosis as well as with parents’ associations to achieve a continuous improvement in patient care and to disseminate information on this rare disease and its treatment.  Our specialists Children's patients (Children's Hospital)The multidisciplinary consultation is organised by the Neuroaediatrics Department (Co-ordinating doctor: Dr Anne Monier; Co-ordinating secretary: Ms Daniela Wayllace).Coordinating doctor and neuropaediatrician: Dr Anne MonierDermatologist: Dr Pamela El NemnomOphthalmologist: Dr Sophie LhoirNephrologist: Dr Khalid IsmailiCardiologist : Dr Hugues DessyGeneticist: Dr Catheline VilainCoordinating secretary: Mme Daniela Wayllace (02 477 39 67)Adult patients (Erasme Hospital)The consultation is organised by the Neurology Department (Cons [dot] Neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Cons[dot]Neuro[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be))Neurologist: Dr Chantal Depondt
Tuberous sclerosis
Health issues
Sturge-Weber syndrome
What is Sturge-Weber syndrome? Sturge-Weber syndrome is a rare disease affecting the small blood vessels of the face and brain. It is characterised by the presence of an angioma (port wine stain) on the face that often leads to the diagnosis. The presence of an angioma in the brain can result in neurological complications such as epilepsy, hemiplegia, retarded development, intellectual disability and stroke.  Eye complications (glaucoma) can also develop. Treatment An early diagnosis of the disease makes it possible to limit the complications, inform parents of important signs to look out for and identify (notably epilepsy, stroke), rapidly begin drug or local treatment (epilepsy, face angioma, glaucoma) and, if necessary, initiate early rehabilitation therapy. Multidisciplinary monitoring (neurological, dermatological and ophthalmological) is essential throughout childhood and into adulthood.  Specific care pathways Our team cooperates closely with specialist teams when the child’s condition requires it (epilepsy surgery, laser treatment of the angioma). We also network with GPs and paediatricians, child therapists (physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, etc.), support services, respite care services, associations and psycho-medico-social centres. A transition consultation can be arranged at the Erasmus Hospital when the child enters adulthood.      Our specialists Children's patients (Children's Hospital)The multidisciplinary consultation is organised by the Neuroaediatrics Department.Neuropaediatrics: Dr Anne MonierDermatologist: Dr Pamela El NemnomOphthalmologist: Dr Deborah BuisseretGeneticist: Dr Catheline VilainAdult patients (Erasmus Hospital)The consultation is organised by the Neurology Department (Cons [dot] Neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Cons[dot]Neuro[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be))Neurologist: Dr Chantal Depondt 
Sturge-Weber syndrome
Health issues
Down syndrome
What is Down syndrome? Trisomy 21, also known as Down syndrome, is the most common genetic disease. The physical characteristics are well known and are the syndrome’s visible signature. However, these are just some of the symptoms that patients may experience. In addition to certain malformations present at birth, especially cardiac, children with trisomy 21 can have a number of medical problems, affecting psychomotor development, vision, hearing, growth, hormone functioning, immunity, teeth, skin, etc. Associated with an early ageing, other medical problems can arise in adults, affecting the heart, brain, vision and hearing. Treatment An early diagnosis of common problems associated with trisomy 21 is essential to limit their impact on health and quality of life and to permit better progress for the child  in terms of psychomotor development, social skills, learning ability, well-being and general behaviour. To this end, for many years now the Children’s Hospital has provided children with Down’s syndrome with systematic and regular monitoring through multidisciplinary consultations involving a range of specialists, commencing before birth and continuing throughout their growth and childhood into adulthood. For the comfort of children and their families these consultations are arranged on the same day and take place once a year, although sometimes more frequently depending on the particularities of each patient.  Depending on the individual child’s needs, our team cooperates closely with other specialists and paramedical teams at the Children’s Hospital as well as with GPs and paediatricians, therapists (physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, etc.), support services, respite care services, associations and psycho-medico-social centres.  A transition consultation can be arranged at the Erasmus Hospital when the child enters adulthood.  Specific care pathways Our team works in close cooperation with national and international centres that care for children with trisomy 21. We helped draw up a medical follow-up logbook for children and organise regular conferences on various aspects of the pathology, in cooperation with the national teams and parents’ associations.     Our specialists Children's patients (Children's Hospital)The multidisciplinary consultation is organised by the Neuroaediatrics Department (Co-ordinating doctor: Dr Anne Monier; Co-ordinating secretary: Ms Daniela Wayllace).Coordinating doctor and neuropaediatrician: Dr Anne MonierPaediatrician: Dr Pascale PerlotENT : Dr Benoit DevroedeOphthalmologist: Dr Lavinia PostolacheOrthopaedist: Dr Jean-Paul KaleetaCardiologist: Dr Hugues DessyNeonatologist: Dr Daniela AvinoGeneticist: Dr Catheline VilainCoordinating secretary: Mme Daniela Wayllace (02 477 39 67)Adult patients (Erasmus Hospital)The consultation is organised by the Neurology Department (Cons [dot] Neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Cons[dot]Neuro[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be))
Down syndrome