ERN RARE-LIVER Clinical Exchange Programme: Reports from Leuven

“Being a gastroenterology and hepatology trainee from the small island of Malta, opportunities to regularly encounter rare liver diseases are few and far between. I applied to the ERN RARE-LIVER clinical exchange to broaden my understanding of rare liver diseases and bring that insight back home to strengthen my practice and improve patient care. Belgium was a natural choice, as it has the highest rate of liver transplants per million population, and I chose Leuven as my destination because of the high volume of liver transplants performed at this centre (around 90 per year). 

During this exchange, I gained substantial clinical exposure to rare diseases such as Liver disease in pregnancy, Polycystic liver disease, Biliary atresia, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, and Autoimmune liver diseases (PBC, PSC, AIH). I also had the opportunity to observe a Liver transplant and complex ERCPs first-hand. Under the guidance of Prof. Jef Verbeek, I was also introduced to active clinical trials, an experience I would not have had in Malta. These two weeks in Leuven were immensely valuable for my professional development as an aspiring hepatologist, and I am grateful to the ERN RARE-LIVER team, Prof. Jef Verbeek, and the hepatology division at UZ Leuven for this opportunity.”

Luke Bugeja, Higher specialist trainee in the department of Gastroenterology at Mater Dei Hospital in Malta

To learn more about the ERN Clinical exchange programme, please visit the dedicated section on our website or contact the ERN RARE-LIVER office directly.