Article
Listen to your breath!
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. On this occasion, the H.U.B. is offering a wide range of activities to inform and engage both the public and healthcare professionals in preventing this disease. Read more. Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers and the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Why? Because it is often detected too late due to a lack of early symptoms. Raising awareness among the public and healthcare professionals can therefore help achieve earlier diagnoses and save lives!That’s why, during Lung Cancer Awareness Month, H.U.B. experts are mobilising to offer a series of activities designed to help you learn more about your lungs, the diseases that can affect them (such as cancer and COPD), existing treatments and care options, and above all, how to protect your respiratory health.Programme – Lung Cancer Awareness MonthTuesday, November 4, 2025Patient Workshop: Overcoming Barriers to Lung Cancer DiagnosisA space for discussion and reflection on the obstacles to diagnosis and management of lung cancer. This workshop allows patients to share their experiences and better understand the factors influencing their decisions. The goal is to identify concrete ways to provide more personalized and timely support that meets patients’ needs and personal objectives.From November 10 to 14, 2025Exhibition: “Giant Lungs”Visit the Jules Bordet Institute to discover Giant Lungs, a large inflatable structure featuring an interactive educational path that explains how the lungs work, their role, and the impact of pollution, tobacco, and other factors on respiratory health. “Giant Lungs” also offers interactive quizzes, fun breathing assessments, and the opportunity to talk with pulmonology and oncology specialists! In partnership with All.Can Belgium.Wednesday, November 19, 2025Information and Respiratory Health Assessment BoothOn the occasion of World COPD Day, the pulmonology and thoracic oncology teams will welcome you at both the Jules Bordet Institute and Erasme Hospital to assess your lung health and answer your questions. Adventurous patients (whose health allows it) will also have the chance to take part in a cycling challenge alongside H.U.B healthcare staff!Tuesday, November 25, 2025Seminar for general practitionersA session dedicated to the key role of general practitioners in the early detection of lung cancer. This seminar offers an update on warning signs and care pathways. Objective: strengthen clinical vigilance, patient dialogue, and coordination for faster, more effective management.Program and registration details to follow. Program & resgitration (in French)About Lung CancerLung cancer occurs when certain lung cells change and multiply uncontrollably, forming an abnormal mass called a tumor.There are two main types of lung cancer:Non-small cell lung cancer (the most common, about 80% of cases).Small cell lung cancer (rarer but more aggressive).Prevalence in BelgiumLung cancer is among the most common cancers in Belgium.About 9,000 new cases are diagnosed each year.It is the leading cause of cancer death, all types combined.Main risk factor: tobacco, but other causes include exposure to radon, air pollution, passive smoking, and family history.SymptomsPersistent or changing coughCoughing up bloodChest pain or shortness of breathHoarsenessUnintentional weight loss, fatigueRepeated lung infections (bronchitis, pneumonia)Note: Having these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean cancer, but it’s important to see a doctor if they persist. With the support of:
Article
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.   
Article
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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Request to modify your personal data
Please complete the form below to request a change to your personal data at the Brussels University Hospital. Personal data modification request form Patient's name Patient's first name Email address Telephone number National register identification number Please indicate below the information to be modified in your medical record. Please be as specific as possible.
Article
Children and Rare Diseases: Sharing Knowledge, Improving Care
For the 2025–2026 academic year, the Université Hospital of Brussels (H.U.B.) is organising a series of seminars dedicated to rare diseases.Open to all, these events bring together leading experts, patients and their families, with the aim of raising awareness, sharing the latest research developments, and strengthening collaboration at both European and international levels. Who is it for?Healthcare professionals (all disciplines)Patients, families and relativesStudents, associations and the general publicWhy take part?Review the latest scientific and therapeutic advancesUnderstand the ethical, medical and societal challengesDiscover the role of European Reference Networks (ERNs)Exchange with specialists and patient representativesOrganisationWhen? First Tuesday of every month, 12:30–13:30World Rare Disease Day: 27 February 2026, special afternoon session (13:00–17:00)Where? Online via a web link – free participation, no registration requiredAccreditation for healthcare professionals: Ethics & Economy accreditation requested for each sessionProgramme & Speakers7 October 2025 — Béatrice GulbisRare diseases and the child-to-adult transition: what role for the ERNs?Focus on continuity of care and collaboration between specialised centres.2 December 2025 — Alec AebyRare childhood epilepsies (EPICARE network)Typologies, diagnostic challenges and innovations enabled by European cooperation.3 February 2026 — Catheline VilainRare genetic disorders (ITHACA network)Rapidly evolving diagnostic tools (genome sequencing, molecular analysis) and therapeutic perspectives.27 February 2026 — World Rare Disease Day (13:00–17:00)Vinciane Vlieghe (Neonatology): early diagnosis from birthViola Weeda (Paediatric Hepatology): rare liver diseases and new perspectivesRDB (parents’ testimony): the daily reality of familiesChristine Fonteyne (Chronic Care): hospital and home-based management, global and personalised approach7 April 2026 — Nicolas DeconinckRare neuromuscular diseases (EURO-NMD)Innovative therapies (genetic and drug-based) and multidisciplinary follow-up.2 June 2026 — Christine DevalckRare childhood cancers (PaedCan)Specificities, complex diagnoses and progress made possible through shared protocols.Practical Information & AccreditationAccès : le lien Visio est publié sur la page webAccréditation (Éthique & Économie) : une attestation par séance sera disponible.Questions & accréditation pour les soignants : maladiesrares [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Envoyer un mail )Maladies rares | Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles
Article
Un centre de référence à Erasme (H.U.B) pour les troubles de l’alimentation (TCA) chez les jeunes
Le service de pédopsychiatrie du H.U.B, actif à la fois sur les sites d’Erasme et de l’Hôpital des Enfants, a été reconnu par l’INAMI comme Centre de Référence Supra-Régional pour les Troubles du comportement alimentaire (TCA) chez les jeunes  de 0 à 23 ans. Troubles du comportement alimentaire chez les jeunes : une prise en charge multidisciplinaire Ce centre innovant offre une approche multidisciplinaire, coordonnée et spécialisée pour les jeunes souffrant d’anorexie, de boulimie ou d’hyperphagie boulimique, tout en assurant un accompagnement renforcé des familles.Dans cette interview, découvrez les spécificités de ce nouveau centre, les bénéfices pour les patients, et les ambitions portées par les équipes du H.U.B. (Hôpital Erasme et Hôpital des Enfants) Notre centre prend en charge toutes les tranches d’âge, du bébé jusqu’à 23 ans, avec une approche multidisciplinaire, adaptée à chaque situation Judith DEREAU Pédopsychiatre, Responsable médicale du Centre ambulatoire TCA (H.U.B) 1. En quoi le Centre TCA que vous dirigez se distingue-t-il dans la prise en charge des troubles du comportement alimentaire chez les jeunes ?Notre centre a la spécificité de prendre en charge toutes les tranches d’âge, du bébé jusqu’à l’âge de transition (23 ans), avec une longue expérience, tant au niveau de la prise en charge somatique des cas graves que psychiatrique. Nous proposons des soins adaptés à chaque situation : consultations spécialisées multidisciplinaires (avec pluralisme des approches, dont la Family-Based Therapy (FBT) et la thérapie multifamilles), ambulatoire intensif, hospitalisations de jour pour les plus jeunes, hospitalisations complètes… y compris pour les formes atypiques comme l’ARFID, qui est un trouble de l'alimentation sélective sans préoccupation du poids ou de l'image corporelle.2. Quelle est la plus-value du trajet de soins mis en place par l’INAMI pour les patients et leurs familles ?La mise en place du "trajet de soins TCA" il y a un an a permis d'offrir aux patients et aux familles une prise en charge plus lisible, coordonnée et mieux soutenue. Cela a renforcé l’accès aux soins et valorisé le travail en réseau. L'INAMI, qui a aussi prévu un soutien régional avec l’extension de l'offre de soins (équipes ambulatoires de soutien de la première ligne et équipes de traitement à temps partiel), vient maintenant compléter ces dispositifs par des centres suprarégionaux, qui seront tant au service des patients et de leurs familles que des professionnels de 1ère et 2ème ligne pour les trajets de soins complexes.3. Que signifie concrètement pour votre équipe d’être reconnue comme centre de référence suprarégional ?C’est une reconnaissance précieuse de notre expertise. Cela va permettre de clarifier les niveaux d'intervention, de donner une visibilité accrue à notre travail et de développer encore notre offre, pour mieux répondre aux besoins des jeunes, de leurs familles et des professionnels qui le demandent. Avec la désignation du centre, nous allons pouvoir renforcer l'équipe avec l'engagement de collègues.4. Quelles sont les prochaines étapes ou ambitions pour ce centre dans les années à venir ?Nous voulons contribuer à améliorer le travail en réseau, la concertation indispensable et la formation des professionnels prenant en charge les troubles des conduites alimentaires, soutenir les collègues au-delà de Bruxelles, et étoffer l'offre de soins, entre autres en y intégrant des pair-aidants dans nos dispositifs.Infos H.U.B : Centre de Référence Supra-Régional pour les Troubles du comportement alimentaire (TCA) chez les jeunes Pédopsychiatrie - Psychiatrie du bébé, de l'enfant, de l'adolescent et du jeune adulte | Hôpital Erasme  Liens: Convention INAMIBruxelles https://tca-bru.be/BWhttp://www.archipelbw.be/initiatives/trajet-de-soins-tca-et-equipe-emas/Luxembourghttps://matilda-lux.be/trajet-de-soins-tca-troubles-des-conduites-alimentaires/Liègehttps://realism0-18.be/trajet-tca/Hainauthttps://www.rheseau.be/___-emas/
Article
Alcohol-related liver disease : an issue of public health and social equity
What if our liver could tell the story of our daily life? An interview with Dr. Laura Weichselbaum, Gastroenterologist at H.U.B., who has just published an article on the topic in the Journal of Hepatology Reports. Read more. What if our liver holds the secrets of our everyday life? A discreet but vital organ, the liver is today at the heart of a silent health alert. Dr Laura Weichselbaum recently wrote an article published in “JHEP Reports” (Journal of Hepatology Reports) explaining that alcohol-related liver disease affects disproportionally those populations who are socially and economically disadvantaged. A reality that deserves to be examined with humanity, lucidity... and a sense of collective responsibility.   Risk behaviour related to life circumstancesContrary to what is often thought, it is not about enjoying fine wines or occasional drinking on festive occasions. It is rather habits such as binge drinking coupled with a poor diet, a high body mass index and also heavy smoking that combine to form a dangerous cocktail.   Such risk behaviour is often exacerbated by life circumstances marked by economic and social insecurity, limited access to healthcare and an entourage insufficiently informed of the risks.   “Today, many studies show that given the same alcohol consumption the damage to health is three times as high among disadvantaged people, even when other risk factors such as obesity or smoking are taken into account,”   says Dr Weichselbaum Healthcare inequalities The data show that alcohol-related liver disease is over-represented among disadvantaged populations. This is not necessarily attributable to a higher alcohol consumption but rather to a frequent and simultaneous exposure to a number of risk factors. What is more, when a liver disease develops there is often no screening to detect it at an early stage due to insufficient medical follow-up. “Liver  disease is a silent disease. It is our duty as healthcare staff to be aware of the lifestyle of our patients so as to propose an appropriate  care pathway and possibly suggest screening.”  Act early, act better for a more equitable healthThe good news? It is possible to act:By increasing awareness without blame, so that everyone can understand the risks and warning signs. By proposing a more accessible screening, in particular by making GPs and specialists more aware of the risks associated with socio-economic status. By encouraging the populations concerned to get screened and providing more information on the risks associated with alcohol. And if taxation became a lever for prevention?In some countries certain taxes have been levied to limit alcohol consumption.   “Perhaps we should convince our Belgian decision-makers to impose targeted taxes on alcoholic beverages or drinks designed to encourage binge drinking and thereby limit risk consumption while at the same time financing public health actions.”  Together, let’s look after our livers… Awareness, prevention and screening could avoid sometimes incurable liver disease. “I would remind you that while ideally alcohol consumption should be limited to a minimum, it is recommended not to drink more than 2 glasses a day for women and 3 for men.”   For further information or to schedule an appointment for a liver health screening, please contact the Department of Gastroenterology by email at Cons [dot] GastroMed [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Cons[dot]GastroMed[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be) or by phone at +32 (0)2 555 35 04. 
Article
Launch of "Your Fertility, Your Story", the brand new awareness campaign of H.U.B
On the occasion of World Infertility Awareness Month, the H.U.B Fertility Clinic is launching the campaign "Your Fertility, Your Story". This public health initiative aims to better inform both the general public and healthcare professionals about contemporary challenges in fertility and its management.  Image Talking about fertility, without pressure, without taboos A campaign structured around three key concepts Moving away from any prescriptive or pro-natalist approach, this campaign aims to make fertility more understandable, more accessible, and less taboo, by acknowledging that it is intertwined with diverse, personal, and sometimes complex life paths. The campaign is built around the following core messages: Understanding your fertility does not mean deciding to have a child: Fertility is not instinctive, and while age plays an important role, it is not an injunction. Many people postpone their parenting plans for valid reasons. The campaign emphasizes that this is primarily about information and understanding one's own body, not a commitment to parenthood. Decisions take time: Indecision is common and completely normal. There is no "perfect moment." The process of a fertility assessment is presented as a tool for knowledge, allowing individuals to better understand their own situation without pressure or urgency. Fertility, a diversity of stories: Fertility, a diversity of stories: endometriosis, Metabolic Polyendocrine Ovarian Syndrome (MPOS), oncofertility, infertility, sperm and/or egg donation, the desire for single parenthood, late motherhood, genetic diseases, or even the decline in male fertility: every journey is unique. The campaign highlights that fertility does not solely concern women, but is part of a global, inclusive, and non-judgmental approach. Dr. Catherine HOUBA, Director of the Fertility Clinic and Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR) at H.U.B: "Understanding your fertility should not be confused with an obligation to become a parent. With this campaign, we want to bring clarity to realities that are often poorly understood, and enable everyone to better understand their body, their options, and their journey." Prof. Anne Delbaere, Director of the Gynecology and Obstetrics Department at H.U.B:  "Fertility is a medical topic, but also a societal one. It involves very diverse and sometimes unexpected paths. Our role is to inform, support, and provide reliable guidance, so that everyone can move forward with solid knowledge and a more accurate vision of their reproductive health." A unique program throughout the month of June June 11, 2026 – Information booth at the Erasme Hospital (open to everyone) June 18, 2026 – Accredited symposium on personalized approaches in MAR (for gynecologists and general practitioners) June 24, 2026 – Workshops (reserved for clinic patients) on the following topics: nutrition and fertility; male sexual health in the MAR journey; MPOS and its impact on fertility. July 1, 2026 – Interactive webinar: "Deciding without a magic wand: moving forward even when you're not ready." All these activities are free of charge Discover the programme
Article
Fatty Liver Disease (MASLD): Global Recognition Highlights H.U.B’s Expertise
A historic milestone has been reached: the World Health Organization (WHO) has recently decided to include MASLD among non-communicable diseases, alongside cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases. This recognition is a first and marks a turning point in the global approach to this condition. MASLD (Metabolic dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or “fatty liver disease,” is now the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. In Europe, it affects between 25% and 30% of the adult population, and its prevalence continues to rise due to increasing rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.Long underestimated, this condition has become a major public health challenge. Often silent for many years, MASLD can progress to severe liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. It is also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.A historic milestone has recently been reached: the World Health Organization (WHO) has decided to include MASLD among non-communicable diseases (NCDs), alongside cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases. This marks the first time the condition has received such recognition and represents a major turning point in the global response to the disease.This development is supported in part by several international scientific publications in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe, to which teams from the Brussels University Hospital (H.U.B) have actively contributed. Among them, a recent study highlighted the lack of preparedness of many European countries in addressing the growing burden of MASLD, including the frequent absence of national screening and management strategies.According to Professor Christophe Moreno, Director of the Medical and Surgical Department of Digestive Diseases and Head of the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepato-Pancreatology at H.U.B-Erasmus, the WHO’s decision sends a strong message:"MASLD has become one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease worldwide. Its inclusion among non-communicable diseases by the WHO confirms the scale of the health challenge we face and underscores the importance of early detection and multidisciplinary management."This international milestone also reflects the recognition of the expertise developed within H.U.B in the field of liver diseases. Professor Christophe Moreno has represented French-speaking Belgium in several European initiatives dedicated to MASLD and has contributed to the scientific work that helped advance the institutional recognition of the disease.At Erasmus Hospital, patients with MASLD benefit from a specialised multidisciplinary approach involving hepatologists, gastroenterologists, endocrinologists, cardiologists, nutritionists, and dietitians. This coordinated care model enables early detection, accurate assessment of liver damage, and comprehensive management of associated metabolic risk factors.H.U.B also participates in the development and evaluation of innovative therapeutic approaches, providing patients with access to the most advanced treatments whenever appropriate.As several million people in Belgium are affected by MASLD, the WHO’s recognition highlights the urgent need to improve awareness, screening, and management of a disease that remains insufficiently known. It also underscores the leading role played by H.U.B teams in advancing knowledge and improving liver care at both the national and international levels.
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MyHUB: possible temporary disruptions
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Health issues
Anaemia
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
Anaemia
Health issues
Asthma and Allergy Clinic
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.
Asthma and Allergy Clinic