Health issues
Rare diseases
Rare diseases function Patients with a rare disease must receive proper and specific care: a rapid diagnosis followed by treatment in care units with staff trained in these rare diseases. The mission of the Rare Diseases Function (8 in Belgium) is to coordinate, with teams with the required expertise, the care pathways and scientific research and training projects of all the professionals involved  in providing an adapted and constantly evolving care.  
Rare diseases
Health issues
Pancreatic cancer
What is pancreatic cancer? Pancreatic cancer is the 4th cause of cancer deaths. In recent years the incidence of pancreatic cancer has continued to increase and today it accounts for 10-12 cases/100,000 persons. Pancreatic cancer develops from pre-cancerous lesions some of which are in the form of pancreatic cysts. Together with certain family factors, risk factors for this cancer are smoking, diabetes, alcohol consumption and obesity.   Care At our institutions we have developed a Fast Track care pathway for screening/diagnosing pancreatic cancer in all persons presenting a clinical (unexplained weight loss, jaundice, abdominal pain, decompensated diabetes) or radiological suspicion of cancer as well as for persons screened who are  at increased risk of pancreatic cancer (family history, chronic hereditary pancreatitis).  Following a pancreatic cancer diagnosis a complete medical check-up is carried out and the results discussed at a multidisciplinary meeting so as to decide on the line of treatment. If the pancreatic cancer is considered to be localised and resectable, pancreatic surgery can be envisaged, possibly  following  induction treatment (chemotherapy +/- radiotherapy). If it is non-resectable or metastatic, chemotherapy is proposed, possibly in the framework of study protocols. In Belgium, pancreatic surgery has been centralised since July 2019 at 15 experienced hospitals (including 6 French-speaking hospitals) with a high volume of pancreatic interventions so as to improve the care quality. The Erasmus Hospital is the leading French-speaking hospital in terms of the annual number of pancreatic surgery operations.     Research The HUB is active in developing new treatment approaches and initiated a multicentric study ((STEREOPAC) to assess the impact of stereotaxic radiotherapy (radiotherapy targeted at the tumour) following neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the case of localised pancreatic cancer .The Digestive Oncology Department is linked to the Laboratory of Experimental Gastroenterology (LGE) of the ULB’s Faculty of Medicine and to the Jules Bordet Institute’s GI Lab where a number of research projects are carried out, in particular on the immune-molecular impact of pancreatic cancer treatment.   A number of our doctors are members of various national and international groups of experts, namely :  the Belgian Group of Digestive Oncology, the Belgian Pancreatic Group, the Belgian Pancreatic Cancer Group, the European Society of Digestive Oncology and the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Our specialists Image Multidisciplinary bilio-pancreatic pathology group Associated services Publications Preoperative treatment with mFFX or GemNab and iHDSBRT (STEREOPAC trial) Authors : Bouchart et al Journal : BMC Cancer NAC associated with iHD-SBRT does not increase complications after PD Authors : Navez J et al Journal : J Surg Oncol Stratification of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinomas Based on Tumor and Microenvironment Features Authors : Puleo et al Journal : Gastroenterology Assessment of response to chemotherapy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: Comparison between diffusion-weighted MR quantitative parameters and RECIST Authors : Bali et al Journal : Eur J Radiol
Pancreatic cancer
Health issues
Carie dentaire
What is tooth decay? Tooth Decay is a common problem that occurs when the bacteria in the mouth cause the sugars to turn into acids.  This process leads to progressive demineralisation and the formation of dental cavities. If ignored, a cavity can worsen, causing pain, infection and sometimes the loss of the tooth. A rapid identification of the symptoms, such as an unusual sensitivity or discolouring, is essential for effective treatment.   Care Our clinic proposes a comprehensive care that combines prevention, early diagnosis and a variety of treatment, ranging from a simple filling to more complex procedures such as root canal treatment. Our collaborative approach that has recourse to specialists from various disciplines (speech therapist, ENT, stomatologist, hygienist, etc.) aims to provide individualised care and prevent further issues by educating patients in oral hygiene.  Advice to parents Preventing tooth decay in children starts with adopting healthy habits: brushing twice daily, limiting consumption of sweets and regular visits to the dentist.  Instilling good hygiene practices at a very young age is the foundation of long-term dental health.  Image Research Our commitment to research and innovation enables our patients to benefit from the latest developments in dental restoration materials and less invasive techniques for an improved management of tooth decay.  Our specialists Associated service
Carie dentaire
Health issues
Molar Incisive Hypomineralisation (MIH)
What is MIH? Molar Incisive Hypomineralisation is an anomaly of the enamel that gives rise to cream, yellow or brown stains on the teeth.  These stains are the result of insufficient mineralisation of the enamel during its development, making the teeth more vulnerable to decay and hypersensitivity. MIH affects approximately 15%  of children worldwide with variations depending on the geographical region. The exact causes of MIH remain to some extent unknown. Research nevertheless suggests that a role is played by a complex set of potential factors, including genetic and environmental elements and health issues during the first years of life.  Severe childhood illnesses between the ages of 0 and 4, the use of medicines and of anti-inflammatory drugs in particular, as well as certain prenatal and postnatal conditions, are all seen as factors contributing to the development of MIH. The signs of MIH include discoloured and stained molars and incisives. The affected teeth can become more sensitive, especially in response to cold, heat or sugar. In severe cases the enamel can erode, leading to cavities and pain that can potentially affect chewing and speech.   Treatment MIH is diagnosed during a thorough dental examination. A dentist is able to identify characteristic lesions of the tooth enamel and evaluate the extent of the problem. Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and can range from the application of fluoride varnish or dental cement to strengthen the enamel to more invasive treatment, especially if the tooth structure is seriously compromised.  Advice for parents Prevention and Early Detection: Make regular visits to the dentist as soon as the first permanent teeth appear for early detection. Oral hygiene: Encourage a strict brushing routine using fluoride toothpaste and also dental floss.Diet : Limit sugars and acids that can aggravate already vulnerable teeth. Professional treatment : Follow the dentist’s recommendations for protective or restorative treatment. MIH is a challenge for dentists as well as for the families who are affected by it. Nevertheless, with a clear and thorough understanding, early detection and proactive management it is possible to minimise its impact on the oral health of children. Parents have a key role to play in monitoring and caring for the dental health of their children and are encouraged to act in close cooperation with their dentist to ensure the best possible follow up. 
Molar Incisive Hypomineralisation (MIH)
Services
Vascular surgery
Our role The role of the vascular surgeon is to treat pathologies of the veins and arteries, with the exception of the heart, the proximal segment of the aorta and the brain. We devote much of our time in consultations to screening and considering cardiovascular risk factors. Our very close collaboration with Interventional Radiology and Medical Imaging provides us with rapid access to the diagnostic examinations that are essential in deciding on the best course of action for our patients, whether medical, surgical, endovascular or mixed.    Image Our specialities The Erasmus Hospital Vascular Surgery Department treats the following pathologies:     Arterial disease : Carotid surgery – Endovascular or surgical treatment of the abdominal aorta  – Arteriopathy of the lower limbs, etc. Venous diseases (phlebology), in particular symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency of the lower limbs: varicose veins, varicose ulcers, etc. Vascular acrosyndrome. Examples: Raynaud’s syndrome, chilblains, etc. Pathologies relating to coagulation disorders. Examples : thrombophilia, anticoagulation, venous thromboses (clot, pulmonary embolism). Vascular surgeons cooperate closely with their colleagues from the Diabetic Foot Clinic, the Stroke Center (Neurology) and Nephrology, principally in relation to vascular access for dialysis and kidney transplants. 
Chirurgie vasculaire
Health issues
Respiratory allergies (and allergic asthma)
What is a respiratory allergy? A blocked or running nose, itching eyes, sneezing, night cough, breathing problems... Whether chronic, persistent or seasonal, these symptoms can be the sign of a respiratory allergy (such as hay fever) and/or an asthma of allergic origin. Not all cases of asthma or rhinitis are attributable to an allergy. However, it is important to know whether or not this is the case as this will determine the choice of treatment, its effectiveness and even certain reimbursements!  Care The H.U.B’s Asthma and Allergic Diseases Clinic offers diagnosis and treatment for persons with these diseases or who present respiratory or skin symptoms of the allergic type.    Diagnosis and follow up   First consultation: The person is seen by a pneumologist who notes the symptoms, their frequency and the moments and circumstances in which they appear. The doctor will also carry out a spirometry test which is a simple test that measures the respiratory function. A prick test is also carried out to identify the allergen(s) responsible for the symptoms. This skin test involves placing a drop of the allergen on the arm and then pushing it beneath the epidermis using a fine needle.  The patient should also have a blood test the same day at the Testing Centre. There is no need to fast. In all cases the doctor will already be able to diagnose treatment to relieve the symptoms.    Tests for asthma: if asthma is suspected,  If the respiratory test shows a bronchial obstruction, a bronchodilatation test is carried out immediately;    If the respiratory function is normal, the person is asked to return for a bronchial provocation test using histamine. Carried out under medical supervision, this test makes it possible to either rule out or confirm asthma with quasi certainty.    Second consultation : 6 to 8 weeks later, the patient returns for a consultation.  Aims: to assess the response  to the symptomatic treatment and to discuss the blood test results and other treatment that could be considered.    Follow-up consultations : Once the asthma or respiratory allergy is under control, follow up is proposed at a frequency that depends on the severity of the condition.    Good to know: Depending on the case and needs, the H.U.B.’s Asthma and Allergic Diseases Clinic proposes joint consultations. This enables patients to see  a pneumologist and ENT specialist at the same time or, in the case of a skin allergy, a pneumologist and dermatologist.    Persons with asthma can also benefit from treatment education programmes at the  School of Asthma. Treatment Treatment for a respiratory allergy depends both on the allergens in question and the symptoms.    Symptomatic treatment includes antihistamines taken orally, corticoid-based nasal sprays and eye drops.     Immunotherapy consists of modifying the immune response of the patient, causing it to evolve from an allergic status to a tolerance status in regard to the allergen.   Immunotherapy often involves taking tablets that melt on the tongue or otherwise drops. This treatment is effective but it is relatively long and costly. It is only reimbursed if the asthma is caused by an allergy to dust mites and associated with a dust mite allergic rhinitis.      Asthma treatment (bronchodilatators, anti-IgE, anti-interleukins, biological treatment, etc.) is varied and  depends on the type of asthma. As the illness varies over time, the treatment must be adapted accordingly.    Advice Treatment by avoidance is always recommended in the case of allergies. This involves avoiding as much as possible exposing oneself to allergens or applying certain measures to reduce to the maximum exposure to the allergens. For example: washing sheets at 90°C; airing rooms in winter when it is cold; in the case of allergy to dust mites, closing the windows when pollen is at a peak (allergies to grains and other pollens), etc.    Image Research The main line of translational research pursued by the H.U.B’s Asthma and Allergic Diseases Clinic concerns inflammation of the lower respiratory tract (bronchi). Doctor  researchers work on the use of exhaled NO to guide immunotherapies and biological therapies as well as on induced expectorated sputum as a means of identifying the phenotype of an asthma and to guide treatment.    Related service Related doctors
Respiratory allergies (and allergic asthma)
Health issues
Irritable bowel
What is irritable bowel syndrome? Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic digestive disorder that affects the small and large intestine. Common symptoms are stomach pain and bloating associated with changes in the intestinal transit (constipation or diarrhoea). An estimated 10% of Belgians suffer from this disease. The causes are multiple and examinations (blood tests, imaging, endoscopy) do not show any anomaly.  Clinic The Functional Digestive Disorders Clinic at the Erasmus Hospital proposes a digestive comfort consultation in order to evaluate the situation, relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients. Treatment includes changes to diet, dietary consultation, medication and sometimes physiotherapy as part of a multidisciplinary approach.    Research Innovative tratment is regularly proposed in the framework of clinical trials.    Our specialists Associated service
Irritable bowel
Health issues
Parkinson’s disease and Abnormal Movements Clinic
What is Parkinson’s disease? Parkinson’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disease, the second most common after Alzheimer’s. It is caused by a lack of the neurotransmitter dopamine that is present deep in the brain. Parkinson’s is estimated to affect some 30,000 people in Belgium, which is about 2.5 people for every 1,000 inhabitants. Parkinson’s disease is slightly more prevalent among men than women. The causes remain unclear and complex genetic and environmental factors are no doubt involved. Typical signs of Parkinson’s are resting tremors, stiffness and slowness of movement. There can also be non-motor symptoms that may affect sleep, behaviour or memory for example. Treatment Neurologists can prescribe medication. This does not treat the disease itself but is effective in alleviating symptoms. Physiotherapy can also play an important role in maintaining a good physical condition. A complete physiotherapy assessment can be carried out in cooperation with the Centre for Adult Neurological Functional Rehabilitation. At an advanced stage of the disease, deep brain stimulation  may be proposed in cooperation with the Department of Neurosurgery, especially for persons  aged under 70. Other persons can benefit from pump treatment that introduces medication into the digestive tract. This is carried out in cooperation with the Department of Gastroenterology.    Other diseases Certain rare diseases can resemble the early stages of Parkinson’s disease. Neurologists will draw on their expertise to detect specific signs of these diseases that are known as  Parkinson-plus syndromes and they will make the differentiation, often in cooperation with the Departments of Diagnostic Neuroradiology, Nuclear Medicine and in association with neuropsychologists.   Not all tremors indicate Parkinson’s. Essential tremor is a disease that can be distinguished by the fact that the trembling is the only symptom and is distinctive in that it occurs when making certain movements, such as eating, drinking or brushing your teeth. It is often overlooked despite the fact that it is probably more common than Parkinson’s disease. It can be treated very effectively with medication and more rarely with neurosurgery.   Dystonia is a neurological disease resulting in an abnormal muscle tone caused by a bad signal sent by the brain. Persons with dystonia suffer from involuntary muscle contractions. This causes abnormal posture or movements, such as torticolis, writer’s cramp and blepharospasm (involuntary contraction of the eyelid muscles). It can also be generalised, confining patients  to a wheelchair or distorting  the skeleton. It can affect people of any age, including children. Treatment is by medication, especially botulinum toxin injections, and sometimes by neurosurgery with deep brain stimulation.   Huntington’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease characterised by involuntary movements that are called chorea, cognitive disorders and behavioural disorders. It is transmitted by parents to the children with a 50% risk of transmission. A simple genetic test gives a diagnosis with 100% certainty. There is worldwide registration of Huntingdon’s disease, on the  Enroll-HD research platform to which we contribute, and that operates as a gateway to possible clinical trials. Treatment is for the symptoms only and of limited effectiveness although progress in recent years is encouraging.  Other pathologies are also treated:   restless leg syndrome, Gilles de la Tourette syndrome, paroxymal dyskinesia, orthostatic tremors, etc.   Our specialists Related service
Parkinson’s disease and Abnormal Movements Clinic
Health issues
Systemic Mastocytosis
What is systemic mastocytosis Systemic mastocytosis is a rare disease. Mastocytosis is a group of diseases that cause an excessive build up of mast cells in the body. A mast cell is a type of white blood cell that helps our immune system to function correctly.  When you suffer from systemic mastocytosis an excess of mast cells builds up in the skin, bone marrow, digestive tract or other body organs. When activated these mast cells release substances that can trigger signs and symptoms similar to those of an allergic reaction. Serious inflammation can sometimes cause organic lesions. Common triggers include alcohol, spicy food, insect bites and some medicines. Mast cell activation syndrome and systemic mastocytosis present the same signs and symptoms. In the case of mast cell activation syndrome there is no build up of mast cells in the bone marrow. Systemic mastocytosis is also characterised by the presence of a mutation of the c-KIT gene. This mutation is not generally hereditary.  Care The signs and symptoms of systemic mastocytosis depend on the part of the body affected by an excess of mast cells. An excess of mast cells can build up in the skin, liver, spleen, bone marrow or intestines. More rarely, other organs such as the brain, heart or lungs can also be affected The signs and symptoms of systemic mastocytosis can include Flushing, itching.Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting.Palpitations, feeling faint.Allergic reactions ranging from urticaria to Quincke’s oedema and anaphylaxis Coughing, shortness of breath, rhinorrhea, lachrymation.Frequent urination, urinary burning.Bone and muscle pain.Depression, mood changes or problems concentrating.Anaemia or bleeding disorders.Enlarged liver, spleen or lymph nodes.The various triggers for mastocytosis symptoms include: Insect bites.Food rich in histamine or histamine liberators.Physical factors (change in temperature, fever) Surgery, traumas.Certain medicines.To diagnose systemic mastocytosis a biopsy of the organ or organs affected is necessary to establish the link between the symptoms and the illness. The biopsy is to detect the presence of an accumulation of mast cells as well as the c-KIT mutation. The tryptase level is a blood marker that is very often useful for the diagnosis. Once the diagnosis has been established a number of additional examinations must be carried out (abdominal ultrasound, bone density test, osteo-medular biopsy) to determine the severity.   There are two aspects to mastocytosis treatment. The symptomatic treatment aims to control the symptoms whereas the antiproliferative treatment aims to control the excessive production and accumulation of mast cells in the organs. Antiproliferative treatment is not always required and will depend on the specialist’s assessment. Symptomatic treatment is based on identifying and eliminating factors that trigger the symptoms as well as the use of antihistamines, antacids and other anti-allergy medication. An adrenaline pen is proposed to patients who have had a severe anaphylactic reaction.The antiproliferative treatment is based on chemotherapy and certain targeted therapies. In rare cases an allogeneic stem cell transplant can be envisaged  Advice If you are being monitored for a stystemic mastocytosis and you have respiratory distress or feel faint (Quincke’s oedema or anaphylaxis) you should go immediately to the emergency department or dial 112. If you have an auto-injector EPIPEN (adrenaline) you should use it to make an intramuscular injection while awaiting the arrival of the ambulance.  Focus Patients with symptoms that are suspected to indicate a mastocytosis will be directed to a consultation with a specialist. You may be directed initially to haematology or internal medicine and then redirected to another specialist depending on the results.  Our specialists Related services
Systemic Mastocytosis
Health issues
Histiocytosis
What is Histiocytosis? Histiocytosis refers to a group of rare tumour pathologies characterised by the accumulation of histiocytes (a subgroup of immune system cells) in various tissues. This group of diseases includes, most notably,  Langerhans cell histiocytosis, Erdheim-Chester disease, Rosai-Dorfman disease and malignant histiocytoses and cutaneous histiocytoses.  Frequently affected organs are the skin, bones, lungs, pituitary gland, the central nervous system, the heart, the large blood vessels and the retroperitonium.The diagnosis is based on microscopic and genetic analyses carried out on biopsies of the affected organs.  Due to the rarity of these diseases and the sometimes difficult anatomopathological analysis, consultation is required between the reference centres for the purposes of diagnosis and treatment.    Treatment A multidisciplinary approach is adopted for the treatment of histiocytosis. The treatment will depend on the type of histiocytosis and the seriousness of the affected organs  Close monitoring without treatment can sometimes be proposed. In some situations, the use of analgesic medicines and bone consolidation succeeds in managing symptoms.  For certain localised bone or cutaneous forms of histiocytosis, surgery and radiotherapy enable the disease to be managed or even cured. In other more serious situations it can be necessary to have recourse to the use of corticoids or chemotherapy.  In 2010, the discovery of genetic anomalies in cases of histiocytosis made it possible to improve significantly the treatment of severe forms thanks to the use of targeted therapies.  The often chronic nature of these diseases justifies regular monitoring by a specialist in the field of histiocytoses.     Useful linksAssociation Histiocytose France et Groupe d’Etude des Histiocytoses : Histiocytose.org - Histiocytose Langheransienne - histiocytose.orgFilière de santé Maladies Rares Immuno-Hématologiques (MARIH) : Accueil - MaRIH - Filière de santé Maladies Rares Immuno-Hématologiques Our specialists Prof. Virgnie de WildeAssociate Director of Hematology (Erasme) Make an appointment Dr. Tom AbrassartHematologistSpecialist in Histiocytosis Make an appointment Advice Patients with histiocytosis sometimes have a long waiting period before obtaining a firm diagnosis. Please feel free to contact our team regarding a diagnosis and benefit from a medical assessment. Focus Our department is actively involved in  number of protocols for translational and clinical research (expression of BCL2 in histiocytoses, in cooperation with the French reference centre for histiocytoses, under the supervision of Professor Julien Haroche.Do not hesitate to talk to your haematologist.  Discover our Hematology Department
Histiocytosis
Health issues
Porphyria
What is porphyria? Porphyrias are rare disorders caused by a deficient production of haem, an essential molecule for the transport of oxygen (via the haemoglobin) and the elimination of medicines (via the cytochromes). Depending on the type of porphyria these diseases result in abdominal pain,  neurological disorders and/or skin problems. Some crises can be triggered by certain medicines, fasting, alcohol or an infection. In most cases porphyrias are hereditary diseases that develop during adulthood. Some of the skin problems can become apparent during childhood while others can be secondary to other health problems. The diagnosis is established by blood, urine and genetic tests. Treatment of porphyria Treatment of porphyria depends on the type of porphyria. Acute porphyrias require a multidisciplinary approach based on prevention and the treatment of acute attacks. Haem is administered via a central venous catheter in acute situations.  Pain management sometimes requires the administration of powerful analgesics. Neurological disorders can require specific care.  Prevention consists principally of  eliminating trigger factors such as certain medicines (especially the contraceptive pill) and alcohol.  Certain severe forms may require a liver transplant.  Recently, a new treatment with Givosiran has made it possible, under certain specific conditions, to improve the quality of life of patients who suffer recurring acute attacks of porphyria. This can only be prescribed following an initial assessment at one of the 2 reference centres in Belgium, one of which is at the Brussels University Hospital (H.U.B) and the other at UZ Leuven university hospital. When the porphyria takes the form of a skin complaint, treatment can be by bleedletting, medicines and/or protection against the sun.  In the long term, porphyrias  can be accompanied by complications such as high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease or liver problems.Regular follow-up with a specialist is therefore essential to prevent acute attacks and to identify complications related to the disease. Our specialists Need some medical advice?Dr. Tom AbrassartHématologistSpecialized in porphyria Make an appointment Focus The Hematology Department of the Brussels University Hospital (H.U.B) and the Medical Chemistry Department of LHUB-ULB together form the Belgian Porphyria Centre, which is one of the 16 expert clinical centers for porphyrias (PECC). In Belgium, it is one of the two centers authorized to initiate treatment with Givosiran.The Medical Chemistry Department is one of the specialized centers in the international network dedicated to porphyria, IPNET. It also holds recognition as a National Reference Center for Rare Diseases for certain analyses related to porphyrias. Discover our Hematology Department Associate doctors Prof. Frédéric Cotton - Head of Medical Chemistry Department - Laboratoire Hospitalier Universitaire de Bruxelles (LHUB-ULB).Prof. Fleur Wolff - Head of Hormonology Clinic -  Laboratoire Hospitalier Universitaire de Bruxelles (LHUB-ULB).Ph.Biol. David Fage - Medical Director - Special Biochemistry -  Laboratoire Hospitalier Universitaire de Bruxelles (LHUB-ULB).
Porphyria
Health issues
Vasospasm
What is a vasospasm ? A brain vasospasm is a frequent and serious complication that occurs following a subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) due to the rupture of an intracranial aneurysm. It is characterised by a prolonged and severe narrowing of the brain arteries, thereby reducing the blood flow to the brain and possibly resulting in secondary strokes.  Symptoms Vasospasm symptoms can vary depending on the area of the brain affected and include:  Severe headachesConsciousness  problemsFocal neurological deficits (paralysis, speech problems)Confusion, agitationEpileptic fitsThese symptoms generally appear between the third and 14th day after the aneurysm rupture, the incidence peaking at around the seventh day.    Treatment Imaging examinationsTo detect and monitor a vasospasm a number of imaging methods are used:    Brain angiograph: regarded as the gold standard for detecting a vasospasm.CT scan  with angiograph (CTA) and perfusion : useful for visualising  the brain arteries and the impact on the arrival of blood in the brain  Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with angiograph (MRA): non-invasive alternative that is a more complex procedure to carry out in an emergency.Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound: non-invasive method that makes it possible to measure the rate of the blood flow  to the brain arteries, indicative of a vasospasm.  Medical pathwayPatients having suffered a vasospasm are generally treated at a specialised hospital, in particular in neurosurgery or interventional neuroradiology. The pathway includes the intervention of :  Emergency staff: first to intervene following the rupture of an aneurysm.Neurosurgeons: for initial management of the aneurysm and complications.Interventional neuroradiologists: for diagnosis and treatment with embolization of the aneurysm.Neurologists: for follow up and management of neurological complications.TreatmentTreatment options for a vasospasm include:    Medicinal treatment: administration of calcium channel blockers (nimodipine) to prevent  vasospasms. A high level of evidence for prevention but limited for treatment.  Endovascular treatment: balloon angioplasty, stents or intra-arterial administration of vasodilators  (nimodipine, papaverine, milrinone). These treatments show a variable effectiveness depending on the studies and are often used in the case of severe and refractory vasospasm.  Haemodynamic treatment: increase in blood pressure and in the intravascular blood pressure to improve the blood flow to the brain. Evidence of its effectiveness is debatable.  Multidisciplinary discussionVasospasm treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach involving regular meetings of neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, neurologists and critical care medicine specialists to discuss complex cases and adapt treatment strategies.  Follow upOngoing monitoring of patients having experienced a post-stroke vasospasm is crucial. This includes:    Regular neurological follow up: to detect and manage neurological  sequels.Rehabilitation: to help patients  recover lost functions.Imaging: to monitor the condition of the blood vessels in the brain and detect any relapses.  Risk factor management: blood pressure checks, stopping smoking, etc. to prevent future strokes.Follow up must be carried out by a multidisciplinary team to optimise the long term results of patients   Discover our Interventional NeuroRadiology Department Our Specialist Dr. Adrien GuenegoRadiologist  Expert in interventional and diagnostic neuroradiology  Specialized in strokes, cerebral aneurysms, AVMs, dAVFs, carotid artery stenosis, pulsatile tinnitus, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, vasospasm, retinoblastoma, and chronic subdural hematomas. Prendre rendez-vous
Vasospasm