Thyroid eye disease patient treated with new drug in Abu Dhabi

The patient, who was treated with this novel therapy, arrived at SSMC with blurred vision and pain in both eyes. He experienced constant red and watery eyes, which had a pronounced impact on his vision and quality of life. He was referred to Dr Habibullah Eatamadi, Consultant Oculoplastic and Ophthalmic Surgeon, and Dr Ohood Almazrouie, Oculoplastic and Ophthalmic Surgeon at SSMC, who carried out extensive tests and examinations and confirmed the diagnosis of a severe sight-threatening thyroid eye disease.

After discussing different options, the patient agreed to be treated with the only medication approved by the FDA to treat thyroid eye disease. As a result of the treatment, the patient made notable progress in his recovery process and experienced substantial improvement in his overall well-being and his ability to manage his daily functions.

Dr Eatamadi said: “The introduction of this much-needed medication in the region presents patients suffering from TED with an effective solution to their condition. By making the treatment available at SSMC, we help reduce the risk of patients facing irreversible eye damage. Additionally, what makes this medication truly unique is its ability to treat the cause of the disease and not just the symptoms of TED.

Thyroid eye disease (TED), also known as Graves’ orbitopathy or thyroid-associated orbitopathy, is an autoimmune condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the muscles and fat behind the eyes. Thyroid eye disease is estimated to affect between 155 and 250 people per 100,000 of the general population worldwide. Symptoms of thyroid eye disease can be mild, moderate, or severe and sight-threatening. These include irritation, sensitivity to light, gritty sensation in the eyes, excessive tearing, swelling of the eyelids, redness and irritation, pressure behind the eyes, double vision, bulging eyes (exophthalmos), and, in more severe cases, the disease can cause loss. Of vision. In addition to having a significant impact on patients’ quality of life, the disease changes the appearance of the eyes and disfigures them.

The clinical treatment of thyroid eye disease requires the involvement of multiple specialists, including ophthalmologists (oculoplastic surgeons), endocrinologists, immunologists, otolaryngologists, and pharmacists, as well as a dedicated team that provides logistical support to patients and physicians.

Marleine Bejjani Moukarzel, Chief Pharmacy Officer, added: “SSMC has a team of exceptionally trained clinical pharmacists, who play a critical role in the evaluation and implementation of cutting-edge therapeutic advances and approaches. “We are committed to providing pioneering medicines to all patients in the most effective and compassionate manner.”

Dr. Matthew Gettman, Chief Medical Officer at SSMC, highlighted the importance of making novel treatments available to patients with autoimmune disorders, saying, “Introducing novel treatments that address patient needs will always be a top priority for SSMC. We remain committed to providing exceptional healthcare and work tirelessly to provide integrated and progressive solutions for patients in the region and beyond.

“Guided by our unique model of care and unwavering shields of practice, education and research, SSMC continues to prioritize the health and well-being of the community through the latest evidence-based advances in the medical field.”