Christophe Hotermans, MD PhD’s Post

I recall the first time I learned about NMOSD in medical school there was much still unknown about the disease and its impact. I’m proud of the advances we’ve seen in the NMOSD landscape - as the scientific community has made great strides in uncovering the science of the disease - but there is a lot of work that remains to help shorten the time to diagnosis and raise awareness among clinicians. That’s why I’m pleased to share Rare Connections in NMOSD, a new short film from Alexion, which highlights the experiences of three people living with the disease to increase awareness and encourage earlier diagnosis. https://lnkd.in/eQbkvjRQ

Very exciting opportunity if you are passionate about neurology and rare disease!

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) Congress on behalf of @Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. It was a privilege to gather with the scientific community, learn from each other and discuss our shared commitment to patients with rare neurological diseases like neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). There’s nothing quite like the energy of a busy exhibit hall!   As a neurologist by training, I know firsthand how critical scientific exchange is for the medical community. Presentations at congresses like ECTRIMS help uncover the complex biology of rare diseases, educate physicians on the latest data available and lead to opportunities for innovation.   That’s why contributing to scientific exchange is of the utmost importance for Alexion, as we know many rare disease patients have been waiting years and even decades for advances. Our research centers on building our scientific expertise of how certain rare diseases manifest in the body and gaining a deep knowledge of the patient experience. To do this, we engage the rare disease community early and often, across all functions of our company. By learning about the day-to-day lives of patients and caregivers, their challenges and their greatest needs, we can push our science even further. These insights allow us to design clinical trials that are scientifically rigorous and measure what matters most to patients.   I left the ECTRIMS Congress feeling energized by new knowledge, connections, and opportunities. Today – and every day – I’m proud to work for an organization that has such a meaningful partnership with the communities we serve and a dedication to scientific exchange.