Recherche

Le pancréas : Qu'est-ce que c'est ? Le pancréas est une glande située derrière l'estomac qui remplit deux rôles essentiels : la digestion des nutriments, grâce à la sécrétion d'enzymes digestives, et la régulation du taux de sucre dans le sang, grâce à la sécrétion d'insuline. La pancréatite chronique est une inflammation prolongée du pancréas. Au fil du temps, le pancréas se transforme et peut développer des calculs (« pierres ») ou des rétrécissements de son canal principal (sténoses). Ces modifications entraînent des douleurs, une difficulté à digérer les aliments et des troubles de la régulation du sucre dans le sang. La consommation excessive d'alcool est la cause la plus fréquente de pancréatite chronique. Parfois, il y a des altérations génétiques qui explique la pancréatite chronique. Cependant, dans certains cas, aucune cause n'est identifiable : on parle alors de pancréatite chronique idiopathique. Parfois, la maladie est d'origine auto-immune — c'est-à-dire liée à une réaction anormale du système immunitaire contre le pancréas — avec ou sans présence d'anticorps spécifiques dans le sang : on parle dans ce cas de pancréatite auto-immune. Les symptômes Des douleurs abdominales, soit sous forme d'épisodes aigus (accès de pancréatite aiguë), soit de façon continue.Des selles graisseuses (stéatorrhée), liées à une mauvaise digestion des graissesUne perte de poids et une dénutrition, dues à une absorption insuffisante des nutriments.Des anomalies biologiques : manque de certains minéraux (sodium, potassium), de vitamines et d'oligo-élémentsUn diabète, lié à l'atteinte des cellules productrices d'insuline Comment le diagnostic est posé Vous rencontrerez d'abord un(e) spécialiste du pancréas (gastroentérologue), qui fera le point sur vos symptômes et votre histoire médicale et chirurgicale. Des examens complémentaires seront ensuite réalisés :Une prise de sang complète pour évaluer votre état général, la fonction renale, le taux du sucre, le taux des vitamines et des minéraux et l'état de votre foieLe dosage des anticorps dans le sang, si une origine auto-immune est suspectéeUne analyse génetique, selon votre situationUn examen des selles si nécessaireUn scanner et une resonance magnetique pour evaluer votre pancréasUne densitométrie osseuse (pour vérifier la solidité de vos os) Comment peut-on vous soigner La prise en charge fait appel à plusieurs spécialistes travaillant ensemble sous la coordination de votre gastroentérologue:Un(e) diététicien(ne) vous aidera à adapter votre alimentationDes médicaments et des supplements vitaminiques seront prescrits pour controler la douleur et corriger les carencesDes enzymes pancréatique de subtitution si nécessaireDes medicament pour le diabète si nécessaire et un suivi par un(e) endocrinologueDes médicaments specifiques (ex corticoides ou immunosupresseurs) peuvent être indiqués si vous avez une pancréatiqte auto-immuneUne consultation avec un(e) geneticien(ne) sera proposé si nécessaireDans certains cas, une intervention peut être proposée: La lithotritie extracorporelle permet de fragmenter les calculs (pierres) présents dans le canal pancréatique grâce à des ondes de choc (lien lithotripsie endoscopie-nouveau)L'endoscopie peut permettre de déboucher davantage le canal pancréatique, en retirant les calculs et en plaçant de petits tubes en plastique (prothèses) pour maintenir le canal ouvert (https://www.erasme.be/fr/cholangio-pancreatographie-endoscopique)La chirurgie peut être nécessaire si une partie du pancréas doit être retirée  Comment se passe le suivi ? Un suivi regulièr est primordial pour le bon deroulement de vos soins:Au moins 1 consultation par an avec votre gastroentérologueDes prises de sang à chaque visiteUn scanner abdominal ou une resonance magnetique chaque annéeUne densitométrie osseuse tous les 2 ans (ou plus souvent si nécessaire) Nos spécialistes Service associé

Nos spécialistes Services associés

Nos spcécialistes Service associé

Nos spécialistes Service associé

Description Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease. It is common, can first appear at any age and covers a very heterogeneous group of diseases with multiple causes. In one third of cases epileptic seizures continue despite medication (refractory epilepsy).  A considerable number of patients present a rare and distinct epileptic syndrome for which the prognosis for controlling the seizures and neurological development is poor. These rare epilepsies are for the most part of genetic origin. Rare and complex epilepsies affect almost 5 persons in every 10,000 of the population.  Treatment The Epileptology Clinic of the Erasmus Hospital and Queen Fabiola Children’s University Hospital (HUDERF) possesses specific expertise in treating complex epilepsies.  The centre is recognised by the INAMI/RIZIV [Belgian National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance] as an approved Belgian centre for the treatment of refractory epilepsies.  The rooms at our Epilepsy Exploration Unit ere specially equipped for prolonged video EEG monitoring. The Erasmus Hospital is specialised in intracranial EEG monitoring for the pre-surgery assessment of refractory epilepsies while the HUDERF is specialised in treating epilepsy in children. The multidisciplinary approach at the two sites permits a full range of diagnostic and treatment methods, from the latest medicines and ketogenic diet to surgery.   The H.U.B’s Rare Diseases Function provides access to leading edge  genetic diagnostic technologies that make it possible to identify a genetic cause in a large number of patients with rare and complex  epilepsies and thereby permit targeted treatment. Thanks to close cooperation with neuropaediatrics at the Erasmus Hospital and the HUDERF we are able to offer paediatric patients a structured transition to care in adulthood that is adapted specifically to the individual needs of each patient. Our multidisciplinary medical and paramedical care allows us to treat not only epilepsy but also the medical conditions that are often associated with epilepsy. Advice Genetic factors play an important role in epilepsy, especially if the epilepsy first appears in childhood or is associated with developmental disorders.  Specialised genetic testing is then indicated. Several hundred genes are associated with epilepsy. Identifying a genetic cause not only permits a precise diagnosis but also genetic advice, the prognosis and – increasingly frequently – precision treatment. For patients with refractory epilepsy, pre-surgery exploration can lead to a surgical solution (brain surgery, gamma knife, vagus nerve stimulation, deep brain stimulation, Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT). Research Other areas of expertise and research activities:Prolonged EEG monitoring at the Intensive Care Unit to diagnose epileptic seizures in seriously ill patientsParticipation in pharmaceutical trials sponsored by the industry on the use of the latest drugsParticipation in research and expertise networks:Epinord (Franco-Belgian intracranial ’EEG expertise group)ERN EpiCARE (European Reference Network for Rare and Complex Epilepsies)The genetic research networks EpiGen, Epi25 and Consortium on Complex Epilepsies of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE)Critical Care EEG Monitoring Research Consortium(CCEMRC)  Documents and useful links Epileptology Clinic HUDERF Department of NeuropaediatricsEpilepsy Exploration UnitERN EpiCARE (European Reference Network for Rare and Complex Epilepsies)Epi25 NetworkConsortium on Complex Epilepsies of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE)Critical Care EEG Monitoring Research Consortium (CCEMRC)Patients’ associations: https://ligueepilepsie.behttps://www.epilepsieliga.be Our specialists Neurologists specialising in epilepsy: Prof. Chantal Depondt (Head of the Rare Neurological Diseases Clinic)Prof. Nicolas Gaspard (Head of the Department of Neurology)Dr. Benjamin Legros (Head of the Adult Epileptology Clinic and of the Reference Centre for the treatment of Refractory Epilepsy)Paediatricians specialising in epilepsy: Prof. Alec Aeby (Head of the Department of Neuropaediatrics)Dr. Tom Balfroid (Erasmus Hospital)Dr. Cynthia Prigogine (HUDERF)Dr. Claudine Sculier (Erasmus Hospital – Medical consultant at the Epilepsy Exploration Unit)Dr. Pauline Van Gyseghem (HUDERF)

Nos spécialistes Services associés

Image Contact the Neurovascular Clinic Are you a doctor and would like to obtain your patients’ medical results, refer a patient, or request a (second) opinion?Contact our clinic by telephone on +32 (0)2 555 46 22 or by email at secmed [dot] neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (secmed[dot]neuro[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be) Would you like to make an appointment with one of our specialists for yourself or one of your relatives?Contact us by telephone on +32 (0)2 555 33 52 or by email at secmed [dot] neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (cons[dot]neuro[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be)Do you have an administrative request?Contact our medical administration by telephone on +32 (0)2 555 46 22 or by email at secmed [dot] neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (secmed[dot]neuro[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be) Please note that visiting hours in this unit are from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for all patients (stroke and non-stroke). Access excellence in neurovascular care at H.U.B. Welcome to the Neurovascular Clinic, your reference centre for advanced and personalised care for cerebrovascular conditions. Thanks to our expertise, holistic approach and state-of-the-art techniques, we place your health at the heart of our priorities. Image Image Image Tailored care pathways Our expertise covers a wide range of conditions, from ischaemic and haemorrhagic cerebrovascular accidents to TIAs, including cerebrovascular accidents in young people, aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations, subdural haematomas, neurovascular complications associated with sickle cell disease, vertigo and pulsatile tinnitus. Each patient receives care tailored to and structured around their specific needs. Comprehensive and compassionate care In addition to medical and paramedical care, we support you at every stage of your journey. A stroke specialist nurse welcomes you to the stroke unit and follows you for three months after your hospitalisation, while our psychologists, available both in hospital and on an outpatient basis, provide essential support to you and those close to you. In addition, the Stroke Tuesdays sessions offer discussion workshops where you can talk about post-stroke challenges with our healthcare professionals and other patients. Stroke care at Erasme Hospital – H.U.B Dr Noémie Ligot, Director of the Neurovascular Clinic Specialist in neurology and neurovascular medicine. Holder of several specialised qualifications in neurology, neurorehabilitation and neurosonology, Dr Ligot also holds academic positions and conducts extensive clinical research into cerebrovascular accidents and neurovascular diseases. As President of the Belgian Stroke Council and an active member of the European Stroke Organisation, she plays a key role in developing national strategies to combat cerebrovascular accidents and in training healthcare professionals.Areas of expertise:Management of cerebrovascular accidents : thrombolysis, thrombectomy, prevention of recurrenceNeurosonology and vascular imaging : transcranial Doppler, carotid and vertebral artery duplex ultrasoundNeurorehabilitation : monitoring and optimising recovery after cerebrovascular accidentsClinical research: therapeutic trials on cerebrovascular accidents, thrombectomy and neurovascular biomarkersTeaching and training: academic supervision, training in vascular neurology A highly specialised team available 24/7. The teams are available around the clock to respond to all neurovascular emergencies, managed by a neurologist who is present on site and also available at any time. Six specialised vascular neurologists are exclusively dedicated to neurovascular emergencies and conditions. They work closely with a team of nurses specialised in stroke care and expert paramedical staff: physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, neuropsychologists, psychologists and social workers. Together, they provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient.  Our team membersVascular neurologists: Dr Noémie LIGOT, Dr Sophie FASTRE, Dr Gilles NAEIJE, Dr Katharina HOHENBICHLER, Dr Anissa ABDERRAKIB and Dr Lise JODAïTIS.Head Nurse: Diogo DA ROCHA GARCIADeputy Head Nurses: Mélanie RODRIGUES, Sara FERREIRA CATARINOStroke education nurse : Laila BOUNAANAOccupational therapists: Laurence MOLLET, Gisèle VAN CAMPENHOUDTSpeech therapists: Nathalie GUERRY, Laura MORALDO, Odaline LOPEZ ALBERTOPsychologists : Anaïs ROMMEL, Jessica HENDRICKXPhysiotherapists: Claire QUESTIENNE, Iris COUTOUZIS, Sara BEN CHEKROUNSocial worker: Gamze KARABULUTNeuropsychologists: Christelle MAENHOUT, Hichem SLAMADietitian: Myriam AUTPHENNESecretary: Nathalie SERVAIS Cutting-edge technologies We use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to assess the brain’s functional and structural integrity, including perfusion CT, MRI, PET-MR, Diamox SPECT, FDG-PET and continuous EEG monitoring. For treatment, we have thrombolytic medicines and the most advanced devices for thrombectomies and embolisation/stenting procedures (aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, middle meningeal artery, etc.), provided by an expert interventional neuroradiology team, ensuring precise and rapid interventions. Multidisciplinary collaboration Our team works in close collaboration with neurologists, diagnostic and interventional neuroradiologists, emergency physicians, intensivists, neurosurgeons, cardiologists, ENT specialists and rehabilitation specialists. This collaboration ensures rapid intervention, the accurate and early determination of the causes of a cerebrovascular accident, prompt adjustment of treatments to minimise the risk of recurrence, and early rehabilitation to reduce functional impairment. The services we work with Neurology Lien vers Neurology Interventional neuroradiology Lien vers Interventional neuroradiology Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Lien vers Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Specific multidisciplinary care pathways Intracranial hypertension (IIH) and pulsatile tinnitus, Dr Sophie FASTRE, in collaboration with the ENT, diagnostic and interventional neuroradiology, and ophthalmology departments.Dizziness: Dr Gilles NAEIJE and Dr Katharina HOHENBICHLER, in collaboration with the ENT department through joint neuro-ENT consultations. Image A clinic active in research and innovation We participate in numerous international clinical studies and conduct academic studies in collaboration with ULB and the LN2T laboratory. These studies focus on treatments aimed at increasing the effectiveness of revascularisation treatments, reducing the expansion of cerebral haematomas, and improving our understanding and treatment of cognitive disorders and post-stroke epilepsy… This involvement enables our patients to access innovative techniques and treatments before they are placed on the market, offering them cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic solutions. How to recognise the signs of a Cerebrovascular accident using the “FAST” method The faster the intervention, the more brain tissue can be saved and the greater the chances of recovery!Act immediately and call 112. Every minute counts! Resources and useful links for patients with cerebrovascular accidents and their close caregivers Whether you or someone close to you has already experienced one or more cerebrovascular accidents, we are here to support you and provide you with information every step of the way. That is why we offer a series of resources (produced by doctors, researchers, patient associations and public health professionals) that will, on the one hand, help you better understand and manage the condition and, on the other hand, enable you to identify support groups with whom you can share your experiences. [VIDEO] How do we treat a cerebrovascular accident in an emergency at Erasme Ho… [VIDEO] What is a cerebrovascular accident? [ARTICLE] Balance problems after a cerebrovascular accident: advice and managem… [BOOKLETS] 10 booklets for patients about cerebrovascular accident (Belgian Str… [WEBSITE] Belgian Stroke Council [ARTICLE] Diet: a valuable asset in preventing cerebrovascular accidents [ARTICLE] Anatomy of a fall: balance disorders after a cerebrovascular accident [ARTICLE] Speech and language disorders after a cerebrovascular accident [ARTICLE] Obesity: a key factor in stroke prevention [ARTICLE] Returning to driving after a cerebrovascular accident: what you need … [ARTICLE] Cerebrovascular accident: How can caregiver burnout be prevented? [PODCAST] Atrium and Ventricle – Episode 9 – To limit the impact of a Cerebrova… [PATIENT JOURNAL] The Hospital & You – December 2025 – Cerebrovascular accident… Image Stroke Tuesdays Each month, the Neurovascular Clinic organises a workshop where patients, carers and healthcare professionals meet and discuss issues related to life after a cerebrovascular accident (balance, concentration, language, driving, eating, etc.). A special opportunity to share your problems, good practices and questions with people who understand you. Upcoming workshops:13/01/2026 – Cerebrovascular accident, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia. Find out more.10/02/2026 – Cerebrovascular accident and smoking17/03/2026 – Cerebrovascular accident and balance disorders: fall prevention and technical aids21/04/2026 – Cerebrovascular accident: fatigue, mood disorders and sleep apnoea16/06/2026 – Resuming driving after a cerebrovascular accident22/09/2026 – Concentration and cognitive disorders after a cerebrovascular accident17/11/2026 – Cerebrovascular accident and managing cardiovascular risk factors through diet15/12/2026 – Communicating after a cerebrovascular accident: speech therapists are here to support you I am registering FAQ on Cerebrovascular accidents 1. What is a cerebrovascular accident? A cerebrovascular accident occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, either by a clot (ischaemic cerebrovascular accident) or by a ruptured blood vessel (haemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident). 2. What are the symptoms of a cerebrovascular accident? Warning symptoms of a Cerebrovascular accidentParalysis or numbness: often affecting one side of the body.Speech problems: difficulty speaking or understanding.Loss of vision: often in one eye or double vision.Severe headaches: particularly if they occur suddenly without an apparent cause. 3. What should I do if I think someone is having a stroke? Act quickly! Call 112 or your local emergency department immediately. Every minute counts, because the sooner treatment is administered, the better the chances of recovery. 4. What are the risk factors for a cerebrovascular accident? The main risk factors for cerebrovascular accident are:High blood pressureSmokingDiabetesHigh cholesterolOverweightLack of physical activityHeart problemsFamily historyExcessive alcohol consumption.Use of oral contraceptives, especially in smokers over the age of 35. 5. How can a Cerebrovascular accident be prevented? To help prevent a cerebrovascular accident, it is recommended that you adopt a healthy lifestyle and:Eat a balanced dietExercise regularlyStop smokingMonitor your blood pressure and cholesterolConsult your doctor regularly.Limit your alcohol consumption.Manage stress through relaxation or meditation techniques.Undergo regular medical check-ups to monitor your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. 6. How is a cerebrovascular accident treated in the acute phase? Treatments vary depending on the type of cerebrovascular accident:For an ischaemic cerebrovascular accident, a medicine called a thrombolytic can dissolve the clot. Mechanical thrombectomy is an option for some ischaemic cerebrovascular accidents and involves removing the clot via a catheter. For a haemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident, interventions to stop the bleeding, remove blood from the brain, and reverse the effects of certain medicines that worsen the bleeding may be necessary.The sooner treatment is administered, the better the chances of survival and recovery.  7. How long does it take to recover from a cerebrovascular accident? This depends on the severity of the Cerebrovascular accident and how quickly treatment is provided. Some people recover within a few weeks, while others take months or even longer. Intensive rehabilitation and multidisciplinary support (physiotherapists, speech therapists and psychologists) play a crucial role in optimising recovery. 8. What are the possible after-effects? The consequences of a Cerebrovascular accident can vary greatly from one stroke to another and depend on its location in the brain.Weakness or paralysisSpeech problemsMemory problemsEmotional difficulties (anxiety, depression)Sensory and coordination problems affecting one or more limbsProblems with walking and balance 9. Does a cerebrovascular accident affect only older people? No. Although it is more common in people over 65, it can affect younger people (those under 50; this is known as a cerebrovascular accident in young adults) and even children. 10. Can a person have multiple cerebrovascular accidents? Yes. A person who has had a cerebrovascular accident is at greater risk of having another one. This is why prevention and medical follow-up are essential. 11. Can you die from a stroke? Yes, unfortunately, a Cerebrovascular accident can be fatal. Its severity depends on several factors:How quickly treatment is provided: The sooner treatment is administered, the better the chances of survival.The size and location of the Cerebrovascular accident: A major stroke or one affecting a critical area of the brain can be more dangerous.The type of Cerebrovascular accident: Haemorrhagic strokes (caused by the rupture of a blood vessel) generally have a higher mortality rate than ischaemic strokes (caused by a clot).However, with early recognition of symptoms and rapid treatment, many lives can be saved. Medical advances also make it possible to limit long-term impairments in many cases.

Image Are you a physician and wish to obtain your patients’ medical results?Contact our medical secretariat by email to Cons [dot] gyn-obs [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Cons[dot]gyn-obs[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be) or by phone at +32 (0)2 555 35 08. Image A multidisciplinary clinic for personalized care The team is made up of experts in obstetric gynecology (endometriosis surgery specialists, fertility specialists), medical-surgical gastroenterology, urology, anatomopathology, pain medicine, medical imaging and nuclear medicine, as well as specialized paramedical staff: nurses, psychologists, sex therapists, physiotherapists and complementary therapy experts…The multidisciplinary work of the Endometriosis Clinic offers an individualized and tailored care pathway that takes into account the patient’s priorities and her relatives. Regular multidisciplinary consultation meetings are held, after which a personalized care program is proposed to each patient. Prof. Maxime Fastrez, Director of the Endometriosis Clinic Associate Director of the Gynecology-Obstetrics Department at the Brussels University Hospital (HUB).Gynecologist-Obstetrician — SurgeonEndometriosis SpecialistExpertise in gynecologic oncologyProf. Fastrez conducts extensive clinical research on minimally invasive surgery applied to the treatment of pelvic gynecological cancers and endometriosis. He opened the first Endometriosis Clinic within an academic hospital in the Brussels Region. Image A dedicated team of specialists DoctorsProf. Maxime FASTREZDr. Ludovica IMPERIALEDr. Kurt CRENERDr. Camille VANNESTEDr. Carlos SORIA GALVARRODr. Morgana ZINGARELLIDr. Agathe RABATTU (spécialiste en fertilité et endométriose)Dr. Rosine LEJEUNE (échographie)Dr. Giulia GAROFALO (échographie) Make an appointment Dr Alexis Buggenhout The Endometriosis Clinic of Brussels University Hospital mourns the loss of Dr. Alexis Buggenhout, whose expertise, skill and inspiring enthusiasm will be deeply missed. […] We are shocked by his sudden passing and extend our deepest condolences to his family, partner, and friends. We will rise stronger tomorrow to honor his memory by doing what we do best — caring for our patients. Other specialists we collaborate with Digestive SurgeryDr Nicolas Claeys and Dr Francesco MarchegianiUrologyDr Thierry Quackels and Dr Jeanne BeirnaertGastro-EnterologyPr Hubert Louis and Pr Alia HadefiNutritionAmandine Szalai and Gabrielle BronneMedical ImagingDr Marieme Sy et Dr Anne MassezSexologyGéraldine Van Braekel and Clarisse Portela ShiatsuPascal HaassPhysiotherapyRoxane GarnirPascal HaassLaura MoulinOsteopathsMarie Luce Latil Pauline MetzmackerAnatomopathologyPr Jean- Christophe NoëlMultidisciplinary Center for Pain Evaluation & TreatmentDr Nathalie Van Cutsem They will welcome and follow your hospitalization Your coordinating midwifeClarisse ANDRE PORTELANurse — ConsultationBarbara VANDERMEERENNurses — HospitalizationAriane DOSSEReceptionSara ARIUTyan BUKSHCéline LEROYPre-admissionAsma AISSA  Resources and useful links on Endometriosis Whether you are already diagnosed or suspect you may have endometriosis, we are here to support and inform you step by step. […](Fact Sheet, Website, Articles, Videos, Brochure, etc.) FACT SHEET – Symptoms and Management of Endometriosis WEBSITE - Toi Mon Endo - The Belgian association specializing in endometriosis REPORT - How can we improve endometriosis care in Belgium? Image FAQ 1. What is endometriosis? Endometriosis is a chronic and progressive gynecological condition characterized by the growth of uterine lining tissue (endometrium) outside the uterine cavity. This growth can occur on any abdominal organs but is most commonly found on pelvic organs, particularly the ovaries, the ligaments supporting the uterus, and the peritoneum. In the most severe, though rare, cases, endometriosis can affect the intestines (especially the rectum), the bladder, the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder), or the vagina. 2. What are the symptoms of endometriosis? Endometriosis mainly presents with chronic pelvic pain, especially during menstruation (dysmenorrhea) or sexual intercourse (dyspareunia). It can also cause digestive and urinary problems, as well as fatigue. Difficulties in conceiving (infertility) are common in some affected women. 3. What causes endometriosis? The exact causes of endometriosis are not yet fully understood, but several theories exist. One of them is retrograde menstruation, where menstrual blood flows back through the fallopian tubes and deposits endometrial cells outside the uterus. Genetic, hormonal, and immune factors may also play a role, as well as disruptions during embryonic development. 4. At what age can endometriosis occur? Endometriosis can appear from the onset of the first menstrual periods, often during adolescence, typically between 15 and 20 yearsold. However, it is often underdiagnosed at this age due to the normalization of menstrual pain. It can also develop later, particularly in women of reproductive age. 5. How is endometriosis diagnosed? The diagnosis of endometriosis involves several steps, including a clinical examination and evaluation of symptoms. Imaging tests, such as pelvic ultrasound or MRI, are used to assess lesions. If no lesions are detectable through imaging, a laparoscopy may be necessary. This is a surgical procedure that allows direct visualization of the affected tissues. A non-invasive saliva test is currently under development and is not yet reimbursed. It is intended for use in cases of typical endometriosis symptoms when imaging is inconclusive, in order to confirm the diagnosis while avoiding a laparoscopy. 6. Is there a treatment for endometriosis? There is no curative treatment for endometriosis, but several options can help relieve symptoms. Treatments include anti-inflammatory medications for pain, hormonal therapies to reduce lesions, and in some cases, surgery to remove affected tissue. Personalized care for each patient is essential to improve quality of life 7. Can endometriosis be fatal? Endometriosis is not a life-threatening disease in itself, but it can severely affect quality of life by causing chronic pain and complications such as infertility. Although endometriosis does not directly cause death, its physical and psychological consequences can be significant without adequate treatment. Medical monitoring and care are essential to prevent these impacts. 8. Can you have a child if you have endometriosis? Yes, it is possible to have a child with endometriosis, although this condition can make conception more difficult for some women due to the lesions and inflammation it causes. Approximately 30 to 50% of women with endometriosis may experience difficulties conceiving. However, fertility treatments, such as medically assisted reproduction (MAR/IVF), can help overcome these obstacles. 9. Is endometriosis linked to cancer? Endometriosis is not cancer, and the majority of women with the condition will not develop cancer. However, some studies suggest a slightly increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as ovarian cancer, in women with endometriosis after menopause. This risk remains generally low, but regular medical monitoring is recommended for affected women, even after menopause. 10. Can endometriosis be detected with a Pap smear? No, endometriosis cannot be detected with a cervical Pap smear. The Pap smear is used to screen for cellular abnormalities in the cervix, particularly those related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. To diagnose endometriosis, examinations such as ultrasound, MRI, or laparoscopy are required. Endometriosis Unfiltered March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. On this occasion, the H.U.B. is launching a new campaign and offering a variety of activities aimed at informing and engaging the public and healthcare professionals in the diagnosis and management of this condition. Discover the program in 2026!

For the first time, a large-scale international prospective study published in the Journal of Hepatology directly compares the outcomes of patients with severe liver failure (Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure – ACLF) according to whether or not they underwent liver transplantation. A major difference in survival after transplantationThe CHANCE cohort includes more than 1,000 patients treated at 63 centres across Europe, North America, South America and Asia. The study results show a striking difference between patients who underwent transplantation and those who were unable to benefit from it. Among patients deemed unsuitable for transplantation, one-year mortality reached 73% in cases of ACLF-2 and 88% in cases of ACLF-3 (severe stage).Among patients with comparable disease severity who underwent liver transplantation, mortality was 10.5% and 20.7%, respectively. These results show that, even in patients with very advanced cirrhosis, multiple organ failures and a potential need for organ-support therapies or life support, transplantation can offer a genuine prospect of long-term survival.“ The CHANCE data show that the severity of ACLF should not, on its own, lead to transplantation being considered futile. For the vast majority of these patients, when transplantation can be performed under appropriate conditions and at the right time, it can transform an extremely poor prognosis into a genuine chance of survival,” explains Professor Thierry Gustot, Director of the H.U.B Transplantation Department and principal investigator of the CHANCE study.Rethinking transplantation in severe ACLFUntil now, knowledge about transplantation in patients with severe ACLF has been based mainly on studies analysing data collected at a limited number of centres, sometimes within a single hospital or region. These studies provided valuable information, but involved relatively small groups of patients selected in specific settings, which could limit the generalisability of their findings. The CHANCE study offers a new perspective thanks to its prospective, international and multicentre design.However, the study identifies one important limitation: in patients with five or six organ failures, outcomes after transplantation remain considerably less favourable. These data therefore call for particularly rigorous patient selection in this extreme situation. The challenge is to better identify, among the most severely affected patients, those who may still derive substantial benefit from transplantation and those for whom the risk of failure remains too high.An international infrastructure to advance researchThe ambition of the CHANCE study extends beyond the results of this first publication. The study is based both on detailed follow-up of patients’ progress and on a biobank containing samples collected during their care: blood, plasma, urine and DNA. This infrastructure, established at the 63 participating centres worldwide with the support of the European Foundation for Chronic Liver Failure (EF-Clif), constitutes a unique scientific resource for improving our understanding of the mechanisms of ACLF, identifying factors associated with response to transplantation and, ultimately, improving patient selection and care.“ CHANCE is not merely a clinical study. We have established an international cohort and biobank that will allow us to explore new questions in the years to come: why do some patients recover after transplantation while others deteriorate? Which markers could help us select candidates more effectively? And how can we intervene earlier? ,” emphasises Professor Gustot. Read the publication Prof. Thierry Gustot Director of the H.U.B Transplantation DepartmentPrincipal investigator of the CHANCE study. About the H.U.B Medical Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Clinic The Hepatology Clinic and the Liver Transplantation Medical Clinic provide care for all patients with acute or chronic, common or rare liver disease, screen for liver diseases and assess their severity, and care for patients who are candidates for liver transplantation, as well as patients undergoing post-liver transplantation follow-up.Brussels University Hospital is a referral centre for the management of liver diseases, with comprehensive expertise and diagnostic and therapeutic resources. It is one of the six liver transplantation centres in Belgium. Learn more

On 15 October, Erasme Hospital will inaugurate its Family Tree to mark World Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. Dr Caroline De Coninck, the gynaecologist behind the project, tells us the full story behind this initiative for families facing perinatal bereavement. When a pregnancy ends, regardless of the stage, parents are confronted with a reality that is often difficult to name: perinatal bereavement. At the Fetal Medicine Clinic of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at Erasmus Hospital (H.U.B.), healthcare professionals regularly support couples facing a pregnancy that is not progressing, a medical termination of pregnancy or the loss of their baby. Different situations, unique stories, but the same question that keeps coming up. “Are we the only ones going through this?” This question stayed with the healthcare professionals for several years. It also gave rise to the Family Tree, a place of remembrance open to all families experiencing perinatal bereavement, whether or not they are receiving care at H.U.B., conceived by the teams to enable bereaved families to give a place to what they have been through and, perhaps, to feel a little less alone. “We know there are many of them, but we do not see them” For Dr Caroline De Coninck, a gynaecologist at the Fetal Medicine Clinic, the idea for the project arose from situations encountered in day-to-day care. She particularly recalls a couple who were expecting their first child after undergoing medically assisted reproduction. It was a much-anticipated pregnancy, following a long wait. Then, during the second trimester, a brain abnormality was detected in the baby. Regular support began, every week, to explain, listen, answer questions and help the parents through an extremely difficult decision. “ We see couples who are completely overwhelmed by the sadness and enormity of what they are experiencing. And they often wonder whether they are the only ones.”, explains Dr De Coninck. Yet healthcare professionals know that they are far from being alone. Perinatal bereavement nevertheless remains a subject that is rarely discussed. After losing a baby, parents may feel that they are left alone with their pain. Those around them do not always know what to say. Some no longer dare to raise the subject, for fear of reopening the wound or simply because they do not know how to find the right words. “ It is such a taboo subject that people may isolate themselves. We no longer dare to talk to them about what happened. And they themselves may find it difficult to talk about it. ”, explains Dr De Coninck. This was precisely the isolation that the team wanted to help break. A tree to connect stories The idea of a tree quickly took hold. Its roots, its connection to the earth, its branches reaching towards the sky: everyone can find their own symbolism in it, without it being associated with a religion or a particular way of experiencing bereavement. The project developed over almost two years. Gynaecologists, midwives, psychologists, social workers, fetal medicine professionals and delivery-room teams worked together to consider what this place could be. A real tree? A sculpture? What material? Where should it be installed? How could it be made welcoming to families over the long term? The final choice was a metal sculpture, installed in a peaceful, green setting near the hospital. But behind this apparent simplicity, the project required many stages: finding administrative contacts and a sculptor, meetings with the field teams, choosing the sculpture (design and size), administrative procedures with authorisation from the Green Spaces Department and obtaining a planning permit from the Region and, finally, an agreement between H.U.B., the owner of the Tree, and the Green Spaces Department, responsible for Vogelenzang public park, to ensure the site’s maintenance, safety and long-term preservation. The Brussels-Capital Region’s Green Spaces teams quickly embraced the project. The chosen location, away from the bustle of the hospital, proved to be an ideal setting for quiet reflection. “ We really wanted this place to last. To still be there, even years from now, whatever difficulties might arise”, emphasises Dr De Coninck. At the same time, another discussion was continuing with the teams: that of the ribbons that would allow families to leave a trace on the tree. Because time has a particular place in bereavement. The ribbon deteriorates over time. This change can also become symbolic: the ribbon changes over time, just as bereavement evolves: its form changes, but the story it represents remains. There is no such thing as a “small bereavement” A pregnancy may end in the first trimester. An abnormality may be discovered several months later. A medical termination of pregnancy may be decided upon. A baby may be lost around the time of birth. The circumstances differ. Pain, however, cannot be measured by the number of weeks of pregnancy. “ When you are expecting a baby, have invested in the pregnancy and everything comes to an end, it is still a bereavement. A non-viable pregnancy in the first trimester is also a bereavement”, Dr De Coninck reminds us. For healthcare professionals, this recognition is essential. Because after the loss, the journey does not necessarily end when returning home. Sometimes people must continue living with questions, memories, an absence and a space that has suddenly become empty. The team also observes how much bereavement can lead to social isolation. Family and friends do not always know how to talk about it. Some parents may then feel that their baby is also disappearing from other people’s language.  The Family Tree aims to offer a space to which people can simply return. Without an appointment. Without having to explain how they feel. To come and place a ribbon. To sit for a few moments. To think of their baby. To pay their respects.  A place for all families, whatever their story The tree does not seek to bring families together around one single way of experiencing bereavement. Quite the opposite. Each ribbon will tell a different story. The parents’ age is irrelevant. Nor does the stage of pregnancy matter. Family backgrounds, beliefs, culture and ways of expressing emotions may be very different.  Some people will need to talk. Others will not. Some parents will find comfort in a support group. For others, this approach will feel too intimate. Language barriers, personality, beliefs or fear of being judged may also make certain forms of support difficult. The tree offers another possibility: a simple gesture that is accessible to everyone, at any time. “ You can simply come and place your ribbon and see that other families have experienced something similar, even though every story is different”, adds Dr De Coninck. This aspect is particularly important for fathers and co-parents. Within a couple, each person may experience bereavement differently. Some show their emotions more openly at first, while others express them later. “ The timing of bereavement may differ, even within a couple”, explains Dr De Coninck. Caring today, while also thinking about what comes afterwards For obstetrics and gynaecology teams, supporting someone through perinatal bereavement requires particular care. The difficulty also lies in the stark contrast between what the pregnancy initially represented and what it suddenly becomes. An event that was meant to be joyful can, within a few hours, become one of the most painful moments in a couple’s life. “It is a very complicated situation to manage. And every member of the team genuinely wants to support these families well”, says Dr De Coninck. No single professional can meet all the needs of a bereaved family alone. Gynaecologists, midwives, psychologists, adult psychiatrists and child and adolescent psychiatrists, and social workers: each contributes their expertise at different points in the journey. And support must continue beyond the acute phase. “ We need to think about what comes afterwards. Not only about what happens in hospital”, emphasises Dr De Coninck. Working with specialised organisations helps maintain contact with families and offer them other resources once they leave hospital. This continuity is essential: bereavement does not end when medical care comes to an end. Making room for bereavement, so that it can be spoken about The Family Tree is therefore much more than a sculpture installed in a park. It arose from situations encountered by healthcare professionals in their daily work. From conversations with families. From the desire to acknowledge a reality that is still too often left unspoken.  “ I hope this tree will stand for a long time and help people talk about perinatal bereavement. I hope families will feel less alone and that this subject will become less taboo”, concludes Dr De Coninck.  Inauguration: information and registration Dr Caroline De Coninck Gynaecologist who initiated the Family Tree project. Image

Are you a doctor or midwife and would you like to submit a case or request an opinion from the Fetal Medicine Clinic?Sages-femmes [dot] medfoet [at] hubruxelles [dot] be ( Contact us).  Screening for fetal abnormalities to provide the best possible care. The Ultrasound and Fetal Medicine Clinic at Erasme Hospital – Brussels University Hospital (H.U.B) brings together gynaecologists specialising in ultrasound during and outside pregnancy, as well as other professionals dedicated to these activities. Fetal Medicine aims to detect fetal conditions before birth in order to establish a prognosis and organise appropriate care (before and after birth), as well as suitable treatment. Image Image Image A human-centred clinic offering cutting-edge medicine In close collaboration with the HUB Fertility, Gynaecology and Obstetrics Clinics, as well as with external physicians who refer their patients to us, our practitioners provide state-of-the-art care based on the latest scientific evidence, while also committing to a welcoming, compassionate and respectful approach. Supporting you from diagnosis through treatment Our multidisciplinary approach to health problems enables every patient, couple and family to receive all the information they need to make informed decisions, and ensures that they are supported throughout the entire process, from diagnosis to treatment. To achieve this, we work in collaboration with numerous specialists: gynaecologists, midwives, radiologists, geneticists, psychologists, paediatricians, paediatric surgeons, and many others. Our healthcare services Ultrasound monitoring of pregnancies (in collaboration with the midwife or doctor overseeing the pregnancy):- First ultrasound consultation: early ultrasound (dating the pregnancy) and a consultation with a midwife to provide information and establish a personalised ultrasound monitoring plan (for all pregnancies).- Obstetric screening ultrasounds: first-, second- and third-trimester ultrasounds (including 3D/4D ultrasound), for low-risk pregnancies.- Ultrasound examinations of multiple pregnancies.- Specialised ultrasounds in cases of a personal or family history, particularly a genetic history.- “Early Pregnancy Unit”: emergency consultations dedicated to complicated early pregnancies (pain, bleeding) Prenatal diagnosis, from suspected abnormality to multidisciplinary management:- Specialised ultrasound in cases of suspected abnormality during pregnancy, particularly following an abnormal screening test result, maternal infection or the discovery of a malformation- Multidisciplinary management of fetal conditions.- Fetal sampling (amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, cordocentesis) and in utero treatments (transfusions, etc.)- Medical terminations of pregnancy and embryo reductions Gynaecological ultrasounds outside pregnancy:- First-line ultrasounds: screening for and suspicion of gynaecological abnormalities- Specialised ultrasounds to investigate abnormalities, particularly endometriosis, as part of the Endometriosis Clinic; abnormal bleeding, as part of the Bleeding Clinic; and ultrasound imaging of cancerous conditions, as part of the Functional Unit of Gynaecological Oncology- Fertility Imaging, as part of the Fertility Clinic  Dr Anne Holoye, Director of the Fetal Ultrasound and Medicine Clinic Obstetrician-GynaecologistSpecialist in obstetric ultrasoundDr Holoye has devoted her career to diagnosing and supporting families facing fetal conditions. She specialises in the early diagnosis of malformations. Contacts and practical information Obstetric Ultrasound and Fetal Medicine The consultation is located on the ground floor of the General Hospital, route 178.Appointments can be made by telephone on 02.555.36.36 or by email at Accueil [dot] medfoet [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Accueil[dot]medfoet[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be)  HotlineEmergency number for healthcare professionals seeking advice: 02.555.82.76Fertility UltrasoundThe consultation is located on the ground floor of the General Hospital, route 178Appointments can be made by telephone on 02.555.35.08Gynaecological UltrasoundThe consultation is located in the EMC buildingAppointments: 02.555.35.08 or by email at Cons [dot] gyn-obs [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Cons[dot]gyn-obs[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be)   The departments with which we collaborate to provide comprehensive care Gynaecology Lien vers Gynaecology Obstetrics Lien vers Obstetrics Neonatology Lien vers Neonatology Medical Imaging Lien vers Medical Imaging Genetics Lien vers Genetics Psychiatry and Psychology Lien vers Psychiatry and Psychology Cardiology Lien vers Cardiology Heart surgery Lien vers Heart surgery Neuropaediatrics Lien vers Neuropaediatrics Neurosurgery Lien vers Neurosurgery Useful resources and links INFORMATION SHEET – Ultrasound scans during pregnancy INFORMATION SHEET – Non-invasive prenatal screening INFORMATION SHEET – Amniocentesis INFORMATION SHEET – Cordocentesis BROCHURE - Early Pregnancy Unit INFORMATION SHEET – CHORIONIC VILLUS SAMPLING INFORMATION SHEET – Clinic of Ultrasound and Fetal Medicine FAQ about ultrasounds and fetal medicine at Erasme 1. I have just found out that I am pregnant. Do I need to make an appointment for an ultrasound scan? If you wish to receive pregnancy care at H.U.B Erasme, the first step is to make an appointment at the antenatal clinic for an initial consultation (025553508 or online). The midwife or doctor you see will then prescribe all the necessary examinations, including ultrasounds.If you are being followed by a private gynaecologist or midwife, or at another institution, they will tell you when you should have your first ultrasound, and you can make an appointment by calling our secretariat (025553636). 2. Why has my midwife or gynaecologist scheduled an appointment for me for a dating ultrasound? The first ultrasound consultation at H.U.B Erasme is generally scheduled at around 8–10 weeks of pregnancy. It consists of an ultrasound examination to ensure that the pregnancy is progressing normally and to measure the embryo in order to determine its exact gestational age, followed by a consultation with a midwife from the Ultrasound Clinic. The midwife will provide you with all the information about ultrasound monitoring during your pregnancy and the NIPT (non-invasive screening for Trisomy 21), and will ask you questions about your personal and family medical history in order to establish a personalised ultrasound monitoring plan with you. 3. My midwife or doctor has prescribed an ultrasound scan to monitor my pregnancy. What will happen? All your answers can be found in the patient information sheet on ultrasound scans, available in the Resources section. 4. Why are pregnancy screening ultrasounds not performed during prenatal consultations? A pregnancy ultrasound is a specialised examination designed to ensure that your baby is healthy. It includes measurements to assess your baby’s growth, a detailed examination of the organs to check for any abnormalities, and an assessment of your baby’s overall well-being. To be complete and of good quality, this examination requires dedicated time and an experienced operator. At H.U.B Erasme, all ultrasounds are performed by gynaecologists specifically trained in ultrasound. 5. My gynaecologist or midwife outside the hospital has referred me to the H.U.B Fetal Medicine Clinic for a check-up or a second opinion: what should I expect? To ensure that we can provide you with the best possible care, please remember to bring your doctor’s prescription, containing important information about your pregnancy. Any other documents relevant to the assessment of the situation (blood tests, other examinations) would also be useful. During the appointment, the doctor will review the previous examinations, perform a detailed ultrasound scan, and explain the conclusions to you. They will tell you whether additional examinations are advisable (blood tests, fetal sampling). They will contact your doctor or midwife to inform them of their follow-up recommendations. If necessary, they may put you in contact with other specialists. If a difficult situation is identified, you will be supported at every stage by our coordinating midwives. 6. Can I request a second opinion on my own initiative? If you have not been referred by your doctor or midwife but would like a second opinion about a situation that concerns you, our team will see you without the need for a prescription. 7. My doctor/midwife has recommended that I undergo an amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling. What does this involve? Amniocentesis (or amniotic fluid aspiration) is a test involving the collection of amniotic fluid for various types of analyses. It is performed only when specifically medically indicated, from 16 weeks of amenorrhoea onwards. No prior preparation is required; you do not need to fast.The procedure, which is only slightly painful, is performed as an outpatient procedure and involves inserting a very fine needle into the amniotic sac under ultrasound guidance (the procedure takes approximately 1 minute). You may return home immediately afterwards; however, rest is recommended for 24 to 48 hours.Chorionic villus sampling (or CVS) is a similar test that can be performed between 10 and 14 weeks of amenorrhoea and involves collecting a placental sample for analysis. The sample is taken either vaginally or abdominally. The recommendations are the same as for amniocentesis, but the test must be performed with a full bladder (you should therefore drink at least 500 ml of water before your appointment).

What is Down syndrome? Trisomy 21, also known as Down syndrome, is the most common genetic disease. The physical characteristics are well known and are the syndrome’s visible signature. However, these are just some of the symptoms that patients may experience. In addition to certain malformations present at birth, especially cardiac, children with trisomy 21 can have a number of medical problems, affecting psychomotor development, vision, hearing, growth, hormone functioning, immunity, teeth, skin, etc. Associated with an early ageing, other medical problems can arise in adults, affecting the heart, brain, vision and hearing. Treatment An early diagnosis of common problems associated with trisomy 21 is essential to limit their impact on health and quality of life and to permit better progress for the child  in terms of psychomotor development, social skills, learning ability, well-being and general behaviour. To this end, for many years now the Children’s Hospital has provided children with Down’s syndrome with systematic and regular monitoring through multidisciplinary consultations involving a range of specialists, commencing before birth and continuing throughout their growth and childhood into adulthood. For the comfort of children and their families these consultations are arranged on the same day and take place once a year, although sometimes more frequently depending on the particularities of each patient.  Depending on the individual child’s needs, our team cooperates closely with other specialists and paramedical teams at the Children’s Hospital as well as with GPs and paediatricians, therapists (physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, etc.), support services, respite care services, associations and psycho-medico-social centres.  A transition consultation can be arranged at the Erasmus Hospital when the child enters adulthood.  Specific care pathways Our team works in close cooperation with national and international centres that care for children with trisomy 21. We helped draw up a medical follow-up logbook for children and organise regular conferences on various aspects of the pathology, in cooperation with the national teams and parents’ associations.     Our specialists Children's patients (Children's Hospital)The multidisciplinary consultation is organised by the Neuroaediatrics Department (Co-ordinating doctor: Dr Anne Monier; Co-ordinating secretary: Ms Daniela Wayllace).Coordinating doctor and neuropaediatrician: Dr Anne MonierPaediatrician: Dr Pascale PerlotENT : Dr Benoit DevroedeOphthalmologist: Dr Lavinia PostolacheOrthopaedist: Dr Jean-Paul KaleetaCardiologist: Dr Hugues DessyNeonatologist: Dr Daniela AvinoGeneticist: Dr Catheline VilainCoordinating secretary: Mme Daniela Wayllace (02 477 39 67)Adult patients (Erasmus Hospital)The consultation is organised by the Neurology Department (Cons [dot] Neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Cons[dot]Neuro[dot]erasme[at]hubruxelles[dot]be))