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Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the bone marrow. Normally, the bone marrow fills the inside of most bones and produces different types of blood cells. In Belgium, approximately 750 new cases of multiple myeloma are recorded each year, making it the second most common cancer of the bone marrow. This disease mainly affects people over the age of 60 and rarely occurs before the age of 40. It is neither contagious nor hereditary. What is it? Multiple myeloma is characterised by the uncontrolled multiplication of abnormal plasma cells (known as monoclonal plasma cells). Plasma cells belong to a family of white blood cells that produce antibodies (immunoglobulins) to help fight infections. Monoclonal plasma cells undergo changes that make their growth and behaviour abnormal, and they produce only one specific type of antibody, known as a monoclonal protein. This biological abnormality is detected by a test called serum protein electrophoresis, which analyses the proteins present in the blood. Electrophoresis is also performed on urine, as part of the monoclonal immunoglobulin may be detected there. To confirm the diagnosis with certainty, a bone marrow aspiration and/or biopsy is required. An analysis of the chromosomes of the myeloma plasma cells (called FISH) is performed to determine the severity of the disease. When the monoclonal protein is present but there is no excess of abnormal plasma cells, this is not called multiple myeloma but rather monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). This precancerous condition means that the cells are not yet cancerous, but that their risk of becoming cancerous is higher. Although the risk is very low (approximately 1% per year), MGUS may progress to multiple myeloma. Symptoms The clinical manifestations are varied and are classically grouped under the acronym “CRAB”: Calcium: excessively high calcium levels caused by bone decalcification in certain areas of the skeleton Renal impairment: multiple myeloma can weaken and damage the kidneys through several mechanisms (deposits of abnormal proteins in the kidneys, dehydration, toxicity from certain medicines, etc.) Anaemia, which may cause fatigue due to a lack of red blood cells “Bone”: malignant plasma cells promote the destruction of bone tissue, creating areas of weakness in the bone that may cause fractures. Pain is often the first symptom of the disease, occurring in the back, ribs, neck or pelvis. Sometimes, it appears suddenly as a result of a vertebral compression fracture or a fracture. Blood tests, urine analyses and skeletal imaging are performed to detect these complications. Myeloma may also manifest itself through infections, particularly bacterial infections, due to weakened immune defences. In approximately 20% of cases, the disease causes no symptoms and no physical symptoms are felt. An abnormal blood test result leads to investigations to determine whether the disease is present (this is referred to as asymptomatic multiple myeloma). Treatment Monitoring in the absence of symptoms: Patients who do not present any detectable abnormalities are simply monitored medically, without starting treatment immediately. Treatment will begin when symptoms appear. Indeed, according to the results of various medical studies, there is no benefit to treatment when there is no organ involvement. Treatment in the event of symptoms: At present, treatments for myeloma cannot eradicate the disease permanently, so it cannot be described as cured. The aim of treatment is to control the disease (achieve remission), relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. There are many effective medicines for myeloma, and discoveries in recent years have led to considerable progress. Treatment protocols generally combine three medicines, including chemotherapy and/or targeted therapies, together with corticosteroids (Medrol, prednisone or dexamethasone). Autologous stem cell transplantation is reserved for patients under 65–70 years of age. Radiotherapy may sometimes be offered in the event of bone lesions. During treatment, monitoring of the disease is based mainly on clinical examinations and monitoring of the monoclonal protein.

Our role The Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry evaluates, orients and treats the psychopathological situations of infants, children, adolescents  and young people transitioning to adulthood, in cooperation with their family and support network (doctors, schools, social partners, judicial representatives, youth workers, etc.). The team acts both at an early stage to prevent disorders and in diagnosis as well as in crisis or more complex situations.   Our approach is interdisciplinary, embracing biological, psychological and social aspects in a way that takes into account the various dimensions of the patient and patient’s family: somatic, psychological, environmental, social and cultural.    Image Our specialities The Department of Child and Adolescent Psychology coordinates a number of units, each with specific expertise.   A consultations unit is coupled with an intensive outpatient unit to evaluate and provide early care for psychopathological disorders with a specific programme:    Patients of transitional age (16-23) with Ultra High Risk (UHR) of developing a psychopathology: evaluation, orientation, care Eating disorders: intensive outpatient care pre- and post-hospitalisation for young people (13-20) and their family (FBT and MFT).   The hospitalisation unit for adolescents cares for young people aged between 13 and 18 with severe psychological problems who require care in a day/night unit. It is also specialised in caring for young people with a severe eating disorder.   The Perinatology Clinic participates in the interdisciplinary NATUS project that brings together obstetricians, neonatologists, psychiatrists, paediatricians and paramedical staff.   The 24/7 emergency unit for children and adolescents is located at the Laeken site.  Our team Image Our specialists doctors

Our role Image The H.U.B’s Department of Neuropsychology and Speech Therapy is staffed by neuropsychologists, speech therapists, psychologists ad neurolinguists from the Erasmus Hospital, the Jules Bordet Institute and the Queen Fabiola Children’s University Hospital (HUDERF). The department assesses babies, children, adolescents and adults with neuropsychological and speech disorders and provides rehabilitation/readaptation in the case of deficiencies. Our staff work in various medical units to assist patients with problems in diverse areas, including: attention, language, memory, reasoning, deglutition perception, speech and voice. The department consists of three sectors: baby-child-adolescent cognition, adult-elderly person cognition; deglutition-voice-speech.    Our specialities Our activities in hospitalisation are of two kinds:  assessment or evaluation of difficulties and rehabilitation/readaptation in the case of speech and neuropsychological deficiencies following a lesion (injury, trauma), a brain dysfunction or a neurodevelopmental disorder.  Our staff are present in neurology, physical medicine and readaptation, neuropaediatrics, geriatrics, child psychiatry, E.N.T. and neurosurgery, etc  Outpatients are seen for their neuropsychological or speech disorders at the Geriatric Day Hospital, the Outpatient Centre for Neurological Functional Readaptation for Adults (C.R.F.N.A.), the Centre for Neurological Functional Readaptation for Children  (C.R.F.N.I.) or at the Learning, Growing and Becoming Centre. The neuropsychologist treats cognitive, behavioural and emotional aspects. He or she informs the patient and those close to the patient of the link between cognitive and behavioural dysfunctions as evaluated and present or future consequences for daily and professional life. The neuropsychologist takes into account the psycho-affective, social and environmental context so as to arrive at the best possible understanding of the importance of incapacities and handicaps and proposes individualised treatment indications.      The speech therapist carries out assessments and re-education in the case of language (language development, dyslexia, aphasias), voice (dysphonia) and deglutition (dysphagia) disorders  as well as facial muscle (paresis, paralysis) problems in brain-damaged patients or patients presenting neurological and neurodevelopmental pathologies.   Our team Image Our specialists Research The H.U.B’s Department of Neuropsychology and Speech Therapy encourages the development of research activity as well as cooperation with faculty structures of the ULB and VUB. The department  also participates in national and international research projects. Several of its members pursue research related to neuropsychology and speech therapy and publish in international journals.    Image Teaching Several members of the department teach at the university or training college. Every year many students undertake a clinical internship at the department as part of their studies in neuropsychology or speech therapy.     Publications COVCOG: Immediate and long-term cognitive improvement after cognitive versus emotion management psychoeducation programs - a randomized trial in covid patients with neuropsychological difficulties. Authors : Willems S, Didone V, Cabello Fernandez C, Delrue G, Slama H, Fery P, Goin J, Della Libera C, COVCOG Group, Collette FJournal: BMC Neurology, 2023  15 January 2024 Acoustic Analysis of Voluntary Coughs, Throat Clearings, and Induced Reflexive Coughs in a Healthy Population Authors : Mootassim-Billah S, Schoentgen J, De Bodt M, Roper N, Digonnet A, Le Tensorer M, Van Nuffelen G, Van Gestel DJournal: Dysphagia, 2021 15 January 2024 Unraveling the Cognitive-Motor Interaction in Individuals With Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment Authors : Gaillardin F, Bier JC, De Breucker S, Baudry SJournal: J Neurol Phys Ther, 2022 15 January 2024 Resting-state functional brain connectivity is related to subsequent procedural learning skills in school-aged children Authors : Van Dyck D, Deconinck N, Aeby A, Baijot S, Coquelet N, Trotta N, Rovai A, Goldman S, Urbain C, Wens V, De Tiège X.Journal: Neuroimage, 2021

Our role Physiotherapy has very diverse fields of application, treating various aspects of functional disorders, including those of a musculoskeletal, neurological, respiratory, cardiovascular and/or psychomotor nature.  Physiotherapy treatment, centred on evidence-based practice, aims to maintain health, optimise functional independence, manage physical incapacities and assist with reintegration into society. Particular attention is paid to preventive and educational aspects.  The physiotherapist accompanies the patient as part of  bio-psycho-social approach and stimulates the patient to take an active part in the treatment. As the relational aspect is an essential component of the therapy, humanism and empathy are hallmarks of the physiotherapist’s approach to the patient. The physiotherapist can accompany you throughout your care pathway depending on your needs. Physiotherapists collaborate with doctors and other care providers within multidisciplinary teams “Movement is life” Image Image Image Image Our specialities We have developed a number of rehabilitation centres in various specific fields: cardiac, pulmonary and pulmonary rehabilitation, neurology and the musculoskeletal system. At these centres you can benefit from  multidisciplinary care, an infrastructure adapted to your needs and physiotherapists who are experts in their field. The sessions can be individual or group. We also have several specialised consultations in physiotherapy that focus on musculoskeletal disorders, dizziness, neurological diseases, abdominopelvic rehabilitation, perinatal physiotherapy, complex regional pain syndrome, pain management, etc. We also propose psychocorporal approaches (relaxation, hypnosis) and osteopathic care (adults and children).    Our team Image Our specialist Teaching Physiotherapists participate in the university hospital’s three missions: excellence of care, teaching and research. Our department has more than 50 internship places for physiotherapy students. Students benefit from clinical teaching at the patient’s bedside as well as seminars (practical and theoretical), discussions and case presentations, etc. Most of our physiotherapists are recognised as   “internship supervisor” by the Faculty of Motor Sciences. Several physiotherapists have completed a doctoral thesis while others are registered at the doctoral school and hope to soon submit their thesis.  Research A number of projects are supported by the Erasmus Fund. Our main lines of research are as follows: Cardio-respiratory and metabolic physiology during exercise as well as the effects of different physical rehabilitation exercise modes (including prehabilitation) in the case of chronic diseases (cardiology, post COVID, oncology).  Virtual reality : in this last area, we are trying to develop expertise in terms of assessment and rehabilitation of attentional disorders and balance disorders as well as specific management of pain and anxiety.Dyspnea and its implications, in terms of motor skills and cognition. We also explore innovative methods for treating dyspnoea, such as hypnosis and music therapy, as a complement to conventional pulmonary rehabilitation and also in the framework of mechanical ventilation. The impact of CRPS on proprioception. The aim being to improve the effectiveness of physiotherapy treatment.  Publications Hemodynamic Tolerance of New Resistance Training Methods in Patients With Heart Failure and Coronary Artery Disease: A RANDOMIZED CROSSOVER STUDY Authors :  Gillet A, Lamotte M, Forton K, Roussoulières A, Dewachter C, Bouziotis J, Deboeck G, van de Borne PJournal : J Cardiopulm Rehabil The influence of cognitive load on static balance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients Authors : Olivier Van Hove, Ana Maria Cebolla , Vasileios Andrianopoulos, Dimitri Leduc , Pierre Antoine Guidat , Véronique Feipel, Gaël Deboeck , Bruno BonnechèreJournal : Clin Respir J. The long-term effect of complex regional pain syndrome type 1 on disability and quality of life after foot injury Authors : Mouraux D, Lenoir C, Tuna T, Brassinne E, Sobczak SJournal : Disabil Rehabil Reorganization of large-scale cognitive networks during automation of imagination of a complex sequential movement Authors : Sauvage C, De Greef N, Manto M, Jissendi P, Nioche C, Habas CJournal : Neuroradiol  Specific contacts Various physiotherapy specialities offer individual consultations:ConsultationMake an appointmentLymphatic drainage02 555 69 61Postnatal physiotherapy02 555 52 54 - 02 555 56 46 Prenatal physiotherapy 02 555 52 54 - 02 555 56 46 Hypnotherapy02 555 35 06Neurology02 555 38 48Neurosurgery02 555 38 48ENT, vertigo rehabilitation02 555 37 75Orthopaedics, traumatology02 555 38 48Osteopathy02 555 38 48Sophrology02 555 38 48Rheumatology02 555 38 48Pelvic-perineal physiotherapy02 555 39 03Other specialities are organised as group consultations:ConsultationMake an appointmentCardiology, cardiac surgery 02 555 69 62Dialysis02 555 69 62Ecole du dos02 555 38 48Fibromyalgia02 555 38 48Pre- and post-natal physiotherapy, preparation for childbirth 02 555 52 54 - 02 555 56 46Obesity02 555 69 62Vascular pathologies02 555 69 62Pneumology02 555 37 73Our functional rehabilitation centres:CentreMake an appointmentCRAL, Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Centre02 555 38 48CRFNA, Adult Neurological Rehabilitation Centre02 555 68 58CRFNI, Child Neurological Functional Revalidation Centre02 555 68 51CRPP, Multidisciplinary Physical Rehabilitation Centre 02 555 69 62

What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the skin and joints. During an outbreak, raised patches of dry skin – red on fair skins and white on dark skins  – appear, especially on the skin in the area around the joints, such as the knees and elbows. In 30% of cases psoriasis affects the joints themselves that become stiff (especially the lower back) or swollen. Some people also complain of itching, especially at night.    The disease typically occurs   at around the age of 20: type 1 psoriasis of which there is often a family history;  or around the age of 40: type 2 psoriasis that often appears at times of major stress.  Psoriasis affects about 3% of the population. It is not a contagious disease.   Your care and treatment Consultations   A dermatology consultation is often enough to make or confirm a diagnosis. After which the patient can be referred to the Erasmus Hospital’s Clinic for Inflammatory Dermatological Diseases where they will be seen by a dermatologist specialised in psoriasis, either for an individual consultation or a joint consultation with a rheumatologist if joints are affected. As psoriasis can be associated with a chronic intestinal inflammatory disease (e.g. Crohn’s disease), a  gastroenterologist may also be brought in.    Stress, smoking and being overweight or obese are all pro-inflammatory factors and favour psoriasis outbreaks. For this reason and depending on your profile, consultations with a psychologist, tobaccologist and/or dietician may be suggested.    Treatment   Treatment of psoriasis depends on the extent of the symptoms and whether or not a joint is affected.    A cortisone cream, vitamin D supplement and/or localised phototherapy sessions for the hands and feet can be enough to treat small skin surfaces.   Immunosuppressive treatment and/or phototherapy sessions in a cabin can treat  larger skin surfaces, with or without affected joints.  Monthly or quarterly biotherapy (auto)injections are reserved for cases of refractory psoriasis, with or without affected joints. The patient can learn to self-inject, use the services of a visiting nurse or attend the Wound Care Clinic (located at the Erasmus Medical Center) where a member of the nursing staff will give the injection.    Examinations and follow-up  To be reimbursed, the candidate for immunosuppressive treatment or biotherapy must first have a complete blood test and lung X-ray to rule out the possibility of tuberculosis  (= immunosuppressants are contraindicated).   If the treatment is initiated, patients must return one month later for a consultation to check whether their body is responding to and tolerating the immunosuppressant or biotherapy. If all is fine, quarterly monitoring is instigated.    Advice Daily skin hydration with appropriate products is an inherent part of psoriasis treatment. No aggressive aesthetic treatment (hair removal, scrub, tattooing, etc.) of the skin must be undertaken without medical advice, especially if the psoriasis is not under control. While the chlorinated water of swimming pools is not recommended, seawater and sun (with sun protection) generally have a positive effect on psoriasis rashes. Image Research Dermatologists at the Erasmus Hospital initiate or participate in epidemiological (on the basis of a questionnaire), clinical (new treatments) or academic research projects on psoriasis. 

What is endometriosis? The endometrium is a tissue that lines the cavity of the uterus that potentially houses an embryo and that is evacuated during menstruation. It sometimes happens that tissue resembling the endometrium grows outside the cavity of the uterus, into the ovaries,  the rectovaginal space, bladder or intestines, etc. This is the condition known as endometriosis.    While some patients show no symptoms, most experience pain, sometimes very severe pain, in the area of the (lower) abdomen or back, either during or between periods, during sexual relations or when urinating etc. Endometriosis can be the source of fertility problems, chronic fatigue, addiction to painkillers, absenteeism from school or work, etc. It can also cause major psychological stress, especially when patients consult and suffer discomfort for several years without being correctly diagnosed and treated.     Treatment The H.U.B Endometriosis Clinic offers global and multidisciplinary care.   The first consultation: You and the gynaecologist first note your symptoms, your antecedents and any medication you may be taking (including contraceptives). The doctor then undertakes a meticulous gynaecological medical examination, followed by an endovaginal ultrasound.   Additional examinations: The gynaecologist can also prescribe a pelvic MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan. However, neither the MRI nor the endovaginal ultrasound always show everything. In some cases a laparoscopy is needed. This surgical intervention, used for both diagnosis and treatment, involves inserting a tiny camera and surgical instruments through an incision in the abdomen of just 1 cm. Identified endometriosis lesions   are removed or destroyed. Medical treatment is generally the first treatment option. The menstrual cycle is rested using a hormonal contraceptive, chosen according to your profile and preferences.   Surgical treatment involves “burning” or removing the endometriosis lesions by means of a conventional (laparoscopy) or robotic (see Focus) technique that is minimally invasive.   Other treatment: The clinic also proposes consultations in psychology and sexology to help you manage the potential impact of the endometriosis on your mental health and/or intimacy.   Shiatsu (therapeutic massage technique) sessions are also proposed.    The Endometriosis Clinic collaborates with  the Fertility Clinic, the Medical Imaging Department and H.U.B’s Multidisciplinary Centre for Pain Evaluation and Treatment.  Advice Certain lifestyle changes can improve endometriosis symptoms. It is therefore recommended to:      take regular exercise ; adopt an anti-inflammatory diet that limits foods likely to increase endometriosis pain (typically fermented foods);   make an intelligent use of painkillers, in appropriate doses at the right time.    Focus The H.U.B Endometriosis Clinic has a Da Vinci® robot with a dual console. This makes it possible not only to reach lesions where access is difficult but also to operate with four hands. Depending on the location of the endometriosis lesions, the gynaecologist operates with the urologist or specialist in digestive surgery.  Research The H.U.B Endometriosis Clinic participates in clinic trials  to find new treatment and in fundamental research projects to arrive at a better understanding of the causes  – in particular environmental – of the disease.    Our specialists Gynaecology - ObstetricsEndometriosis specialists : M Fastrez, K Crener, L Imperiale, C Vanneste, C Soria, M ZingarelliImaging specialists : R Lejeune, G GarofaloFertility specialists : I Demeestere, A Delbaere, C HoubaUrology : T QuackelsMedical imaging : A Massez, M SyNuclear medicine : I VierasuAnatomopathology : JC NoëlAlgology : N Van Cutsem, T TunaParamedicalAdministrative coordination : S HecqPsychologist : A CailleauxSexotherapist : G Van BraekelPhysiotherapist : R GarnirShiatsu practitioner : P HaassNurses :Surgical area : F DelsaHospitalisation : A DosseConsultation : E Chasseriaud, P GosselinResearch nurse : F Henry Associated services

What is anaemia? Anaemia is a condition characterised by a deficiency of red blood cells and haemoglobin in the blood. Common but rarely serious it can nevertheless be debilitating. Anaemia causes tiredness and sleeping problems, pallor and a breathlessness that can aggravate an existing problem (e.g. cardiac insufficiency, chronic bronchitis, etc.). Symptoms may appear suddenly or progressively and impair the quality of life of those affected.  Anaemia has many causes: iron deficiency (very common) and/or certain vitamin deficiencies, an underlying auto-immune disease, hereditary or oncological diseases, etc. It is therefore essential to identify precisely the origin of an anaemia if it is to be treated effectively.   Care Consultation and further examinations If your doctor (generalist or specialist) sees from your blood test results that you are anaemic  and considers that an examination is needed, you can yourself make an appointment online or by telephone. If your doctor believes this is urgent, he or she can contact the duty haematologist to ensure you are fast tracked. This will ensure you see a haematologist within 72 hours and if necessary you can receive immediate intravenous treatment at the Erasmus Day Hospital. If your blood test did not make it possible to identify the cause of your anaemia, further examinations will be carried out. For example, a bone marrow biopsy (not to be confused with a spinal cord biopsy) may be necessary.    It is in the bone marrow that red blood cells are produced. If not enough are being produced the biopsy often makes it possible to understand why.   Treatment and follow up The treatment of anaemia depends on its cause and can include:   Iron and/or vitamin supplements taken orally or intravenously for anaemia caused by a deficiency;    EPO injections to stimulate the production of red cells by the bone marrow;   Blood transfusions, etc. After initiating the treatment, the haematologist will inform your GP to draw up a joint treatment plan    Focus The H.U.B Department of Haematology is recognised for its expertise in a number of fields and pathologies potentially linked to anaemia.  The department is a European reference centre for rare causes of anaemia and other red blood cell and low iron disorders . This expertise makes it possible to propose certain leading edge treatments that can only be administered at a reference centre. Image Research The H.U. B Department of Haematology has a clinical research unit. This enables certain patients to benefit from innovative treatment in the framework of clinical trials.    Our specialists Our associated services

What is obstructive sleep apnea? The most common sleep-related breathing disorder is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), which affects approximately 1 in 20 people in Belgium.It is characterised by pauses in breathing lasting at least 10 seconds during sleep, caused by the collapse of the airways due to nighttime muscle relaxation. OSAS is often, but not always, accompanied by snoring. It affects sleep quality, leading to nighttime awakenings, non-restorative sleep, fatigue or daytime sleepiness. Over time, OSAS can have numerous physiological and/or psychological consequences, including cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, psychiatric (depression) and cognitive effects (memory and concentration problems, etc.). Far from being harmless, OSAS significantly affects quality of life.The main risk factors for this condition are smoking and being overweight. Treatment DiagnosisThe essential diagnostic test for this type of condition is a sleep study carried out at the Adult Sleep Functional Unit. This involves spending one night in hospital so that various sleep parameters can be recorded, allowing a comprehensive assessment of different sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome.What happens during a sleep study?You will generally arrive at the sleep laboratory at around 2 p.m. A member of staff will settle you into a private room. Before going to sleep, several sensors will be attached to your body and connected to the various monitoring devices. Depending on the circumstances, a camera may record you during the night. This allows the team to identify any abnormal movements (e.g. leg movements, parasomnias, etc.), ensure your safety in the event of a nighttime behavioural disorder, and reconnect a sensor that may have become detached while you were asleep. The following day, the extensive data collected are analysed. This analysis makes it possible to confirm the diagnosis of OSAS and/or identify any other potential sleep disorders. A further assessment by another medical specialist may sometimes be necessary.TreatmentDepending on the cause, origin and severity of OSAS, various treatments are available:For people whose OSAS is caused by sleeping on their back, positional therapy may be recommended to correct their sleeping position.As being overweight and obesity are the main risk factors for OSAS, weight loss is always recommended for people concerned.Alcohol, smoking and muscle-relaxing medications (such as benzodiazepines) can also worsen OSAS. People concerned may therefore be referred to specialised care to help them reduce or stop using these substances.Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) involves wearing a (usually) nasal mask during the night to prevent apneas.A mandibular advancement device is generally indicated for mild to moderate OSAS (< 30 apneas per hour). This device is custom-made by ENT and oral medicine specialists.Maxillofacial surgery can be used to correct the position of the mandible (lower jaw) and maxilla (upper jaw), particularly in people with moderate to severe OSAS (> 30 apneas per hour). Discover our Adult Sleep Functional Unit

Different forms of asthma Asthma affects all age groups. It is important to consider the age at which it begins: before or after 30 years. Early-onset asthma is often allergic, more common in boys, and usually (but not always) less severe. It may disappear in adulthood. Asthma that develops after 30 is usually non-allergic (though it can be), more common in women, and often more unpredictable. Contrary to common belief, asthma can also develop at an advanced age.The severity of asthma requires several months of observation to be defined and may change over time. Allergic asthma is often associated with allergic rhinitis, which should be properly treated to improve asthma control. The connection between lower airways (asthma) and upper airways (rhinitis, sinusitis, nasal polyps) is so important that joint consultations are offered every two weeks.From a pathophysiological perspective, the airways of asthma patients are affected by inflammation and bronchospasm, varying in intensity over time and usually reversible with treatment or sometimes spontaneously.Airway obstruction and inflammation cause asthma symptoms, which are non-specific and include shortness of breath, cough, sputum production, wheezing, and chest pain. These symptoms occur more often at night and may appear as attacks or become chronic. Asthma management Management begins with a detailed history to identify triggering circumstances, especially possible allergic causes (dust, animals, seasonal factors such as pollen), and to assess lifestyle factors (smoking, sports, occupation).In addition to clinical examination, tests are performed to confirm the diagnosis, assess inflammation and allergic status, and characterize the asthma type. The main test is a pulmonary function test to demonstrate airway obstruction and its reversibility with bronchodilators. Outside of attacks, results may be normal, requiring a bronchial provocation test.Because asthma is also an inflammatory disease, airway inflammation is assessed by measuring nitric oxide (NO) in exhaled air. This is a simple and harmless test. Inflammation can also be evaluated through blood tests or, less commonly, induced sputum analysis.The allergic nature of asthma is confirmed through specific tests. Skin prick testing is the preferred method: allergen extracts are introduced into the skin, and results are read after 20 minutes. A positive reaction causes redness, slight swelling, and itching. This method is quick, painless, and suitable even for young children. Blood tests can also provide this information.Highly effective inhaled treatments have been available for about twenty years. These combine an anti-inflammatory drug (inhaled corticosteroid) and a bronchodilator. Proper inhaler use is essential and must be taught by qualified staff. The clinic provides an “Asthma School” for this purpose.When allergic rhinitis is present, antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids improve symptoms and asthma control. Allergen immunotherapy (desensitization) may be proposed, involving gradually increasing doses of the allergen to build tolerance.Significant progress has been made in treating severe asthma over the past 15 years. Biological therapies (injections) target specific mechanisms and are tailored to different asthma types. They are costly and subject to strict reimbursement criteria.The clinic also manages other allergies, including food, drug, and insect venom allergies. About one in two people will experience an allergic reaction during their lifetime. Diagnosis may involve skin tests, blood tests, and oral provocation tests under medical supervision, as well as controlled desensitization procedures in hospital settings.

Interventional radiology uses imaging to perform diagnostic or therapeutic procedures with extreme precision by accessing the organ through a simple puncture or a very small incision (a few millimetres). The unit is equipped with state-of-the-art technology: Doppler ultrasound, an angiography table with a latest-generation “Cone Beam CT” system, and an interventional CT scanner. Our patients’ cases are most often discussed at multidisciplinary meetings. Our team consists of experienced operators specialising in interventional radiology, treating a range of conditions. These patients mainly present with haemorrhage or require drainage, most often because of a severe infection.Conditions treatedInterventional radiology for vascular diseasesAngiography and arterial angioplasty (dilatation or stent placement to treat stenoses (narrowings) or occlusions)Venous angiography and angioplasty (stenosis, thrombotic or tumour-related thrombosis), placement of a vena cava filterEmbolisation of aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations.Osteoarticular interventional radiologyBone biopsyInjectionsCementoplastyThermal ablation of malignant and benign bone tumoursWith or without percutaneous osteosynthesis, in collaboration with orthopaedic surgery.Urological and gynaecological interventional radiologyUterine fibroid embolisationProstatic artery embolisation for prostatic enlargementNephrostomy – placement of a double-J ureteral stentEmbolisation of varicoceles and pelvic varices (pelvic congestion syndrome)Interventional oncologyTumour destruction by thermal ablation: radiofrequency and microwave ablation (liver, kidney, lung and bone), cryoablation and electroporationTransarterial chemoembolisation (TACE) and portal vein embolisationHepatic radioembolisationPlacement of an implantable port and PICC line (venous access)Pain control: injections, neurolysis by alcoholisation or radiofrequency.Haemostatic embolisationUpper or lower gastrointestinal haemorrhagePostpartum haemorrhageHaemoptysisRectal bleeding caused by haemorrhoidsVarious biopsies and drainagesUnder ultrasound, radiological or computed tomography (CT) guidance

Obesity, too common in Belgium In Belgium, it is estimated that: 34% of the adult population is overweight (BMI between 25.0 and 29.9) 14% of the adult population is obese (BMI ≥30). These figures increase with age. Indeed, between the ages of 45 and 54, more than half of the adult population is already overweight. Overweight and obesity are chronic health conditions associated with the development of other diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, etc. Bariatric surgery, medical intervention, intensive coaching Solutions for weight problems of all sizes! Are you concerned about your health? Would you like to make a change and feel better about yourself? The Integrated Obesity Centre (CIO) at Erasme Hospital can help you! We form a multidisciplinary team with each patient, of which you will be the key member. Each patient requires an individual treatment plan, which is why the CIO offers three types of personalised care: Intensive programme and coaching Medical intervention Surgical intervention. At every stage, you will be supported by our multidisciplinary team, comprising dietitians, psychologists, endocrinologists, gastroenterologists, gastrointestinal surgeons and physiotherapists. Would you like more information? Contact the CIO secretariat on 02 555 70 89.

The support center for smokers is made up of tobacco specialists whose role is to inform patients who wish to quit smoking, help them prepare, and support them throughout the process.Make an appointmentTel: 02 555 3773Responsible physicianProf. Jean-Paul Van VoorenTobacco specialistJacques DumontNurse, Pulmonology DepartmentTel: 02 555 3420E-mail: jacques [dot] dumont [at] hubruxelles [dot] be