SEHA Introduces Groundbreaking Treatment for Rare Diseases in UAE

Abu dhabi: Under the supervision of the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, Tawam Hospital, part of SEHA and a subsidiary of PureHealth, has successfully launched an innovative treatment for idiopathic pericarditis and Still's disease, marking a first for the UAE and the GCC.

According to Emirates News Agency, the pioneering therapy involves the use of the drug Rilonacept, which has led to the recovery of two young Emirati patients suffering from these rare and resistant conditions. Rilonacept functions by inhibiting interleukin-1, a protein that causes inflammation, thus alleviating symptoms such as fever, pain, rash, and organ damage.

The Department of Health - Abu Dhabi has approved this new drug and registered its product number, highlighting the emirate's commitment to fostering medical innovation and ensuring timely access to groundbreaking therapies.

Dr. Khalid Abdalla Alnaqbi, Consultant Physician and Chief of Rheumatology at Tawam Hospital, expressed pride in providing the latest treatments within the UAE, noting, 'Both patients had sought medical attention abroad. This achievement showcases our hospital as a key tertiary referral hub for complex cases in the region, offering world-class care in immune rheumatic diseases.'

Dr. Dalal Saeed Al Mansoori, Chief Medical Officer at Tawam Hospital, emphasized the focus on patient care, stating, 'By making cutting-edge therapies available locally, we are not only improving outcomes but also offering hope to patients and their families facing challenging conditions. This is the future of healthcare in the UAE, delivering global standards of care within our communities.'

This advancement positions SEHA as a leader in regional healthcare innovation, delivering advanced strategies for rare and complex diseases, and supporting the UAE's vision of providing world-class medical care domestically.