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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).

Image Access and parking Here you will find full details concerning addresses, access, car parks, signposting and PRM facilities Image Consultations and Hospitalisation All you need to know Image Day hospital The Day Hospital welcomes patients for surgery and provides treatment for pain relief. Image Blood tests Do you need a blood test? Find out more here. Address Hôpital Erasme Route de Lennik 808 1070 Bruxelles Belgium Phone +32 2 555 3111 Email contact@erasme.ulb.ac.be Schedule Ouvert 24 heures GPS coordinates 50.814404685823845 4.265633421008964 Image Useful links Mediation and patients' rights Social services department Moral, religious or philosophical assistance Shops / cafés Wifi Volunteers Financial conditions International patient

We suggest you to pack certain items: Pyjamas and nightshirts Dressing gown Comfortable, non-slip shoes (slippers)  Underwear Necessary toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, soap, comb, hair brush, towel, face flannel)   Any medicine you take regularly, in original packaging (or at least the list). We ask you to make a list of all the medicine you take, with or without prescription, whether daily or occasionally. Also make a list of medicines to which you are allergic or that disagree with you. You can give these lists to the nurses at the time of being admitted to the unit.  A thermometer issued at the time of a previous hospitalisation. If you don't have one, you will be issued with one – which you can take with you when you leave – and for which you will be invoiced.  Your support stockings or body band if requested by the doctor. Also remember to pack some books, newspapers, laptop, PC, charger, etc.  If you wear glasses or contact lenses, dentures or a hearing aid, please deposit them in the case or other recipient provided.  The day before your surgery, please remember to: Take an antiseptic shower / shampooing (if recommended) Remove any nail varnish and false nails, in gel or resin, from your hands and feet Cut and file your nails Remove any make-up, false eyelashes, jewellery, piercing Do not eat, drink or smoke after midnight!!   Please follow strictly the instructions of your anaesthetist regarding any medicines that you should or should not take on the day itself or the previous day.  Preparing your belongings before hospitalisation to make your stay as comfortable as possible

The Erasmus Hospital Communication Department is at the disposal of the media for any request for interviews, reports or photographs. We will be pleased to direct you to the specialist best able to answer your questions.  Director of Communication Frédérique Meeus frederique.meeus@hubruxelles.be +32 2 555 84 30 +32 499 54 05 16 Media Officer Louis Dijon louis.dijon@hubruxelles.be +32 478 83 06 49 Press releases The hospital and YOU : Your hospital’s magazine Whether you are a patient, relative of a patient, future patient or visitor, we invite you to discover the H.U.B’s new magazine:  “The hospital and YOU”. Packed with information and news on our care and care staff, our fields of expertise and innovations! Your health is at the centre of our concerns.  Discover all the issues here and keep up to date on all that is happening at the H.U.B! File hub_decembre_2023.pdf

From October 1 to November 1, 2024, specific consultation slots will be available at Children’s Hospital and Erasme Hospital to welcome parents and their babies. These appointments are specifically designed to facilitate easy access to preventive treatment for bronchiolitis, ensuring that families receive quick and efficient care as part of the national prevention campaign. Book your appointment today! Practical Information for Parents:Specific slots for administering Beyfortus to babies will be available.For babies born between April 1 and October 1, 2024, it is necessary to book an appointment with the general pediatrics department.This preventive treatment will be administered in October and provides five months of protection against bronchiolitis caused by the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).How to Book an Appointment:At Erasme Hospital (Anderlecht): 02 555 31 11 or Book an appointment hereAt Children's Hospital (Jette): 02 477 33 11 or Book an appointment hereBrochure (ONE) Bronchiolite Bronchiolitis: A Public Health ConcernBronchiolitis affects many babies each year. While it is often mild, it can occasionally lead to severe complications requiring hospitalization. This campaign, timed for the winter months when the virus circulates most, aims to reduce severe cases and alleviate pressure on healthcare services.An Innovative Treatment: Beyfortus™ (Nirsevimab)The cornerstone of this campaign is Beyfortus™ (Nirsevimab), a monoclonal antibody that provides fast and long-lasting protection against RSV. A single dose is sufficient to protect infants for five months, covering the entire viral season.Administration Details:Babies born after October 1, 2024: The antibody will be administered directly in the maternity ward.Babies born between April 1 and October 1, 2024: Administration will occur in the pediatrics departments of Erasme and HUDERF hospitals.The Importance of This InitiativeAs winter approaches, this campaign is crucial for preventing infection waves, reducing hospital admissions, and providing optimal protection for vulnerable infants.Safety and EfficacyClinical studies show that Beyfortus reduces the risk of bronchiolitis by 70 to 80%, including in severe cases requiring hospitalization. Side effects have been rare and mild, bolstering confidence in this preventive treatment.