The vasculitis landscape is rapidly evolving, with continuous advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of the disease, refinement of diagnostic tools and assessment methods, and improving and increasing treatment options. Major therapeutic advances have been achieved in recent years, widening the therapeutic horizon for patients who previously had limited opportunities, based for the most part on treatments with high toxicity. Now, however, new concepts and approaches are emerging, generated by collaboration and joint efforts among basic, clinical and translational investigators working in academic or industry settings, as well as patient associations and advocacies.
More than 900 people from 51 different countries registered for the International Vasculitis Workshop. The opening ceremony was attended by Michela Bertero, IDIBAPS Director of Strategy, and Dr Davide Malmusi, Director of Health Services, representing Barcelona City Council. The workshop, which focused on all types of vasculitis and related disorders from a holistic and multidisciplinary perspective, was aimed at both clinicians and researchers working in the field, as well as trainees interested in the speciality.
“As organisers, we are delighted with the success of the workshop,” declared Maria Cinta Cid, head of the IDIBAPS Systemic Vaculitis research group, and Georgina Espígol-Frigolé, co-Chair. As a mark of this success, they say, “highly significant advances in vasculitis were presented as regards both the mechanisms of the disease and its diagnosis and treatment”.
Over the four days of the workshop, plenary sessions were held on topics such as innovative approaches to vasculitis, the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the diseases, and advances in treatment. The programme of activities also included poster presentations, as well as debates and workshops at which small groups discussed specific issues.
On April 6, the day before the workshop, the first congress for patients with vasculitis in Spain took place. The congress, which was organised by the International Vasculitis Foundation in cooperation with other institutions engaged in the field, was attended by more than 100 patients and relatives. National and international speakers addressed the congress before taking part in the workshop itself.
