Naples – Monaldi Hospital in Naples has added a new Departmental Operating Unit (UOSD) dedicated to Genetic and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, also designated as the Regional Coordination Center for Rare Diseases.
The Colli Hospital , led by General Director Anna Iervolino, announced the creation of this facility as a decisive step towards effective, multidisciplinary management of patients with rare diseases.
The establishment of the UOSD, directed by Professor Giuseppe Limongelli and recognized as a European reference center (ERN Guard-Heart), is the result of extensive clinical and administrative work, made possible by the determination of the Strategic Management. "This achievement will improve patients' quality of life and ensure effective care," stated Limongelli.
The unit will operate on two fronts: clinical and organizational. On the clinical level, specialized outpatient clinics will be activated for amyloidosis, sarcoidosis, cardiomyopathies, sudden death, Marfan syndrome, familial bicuspid aortic valve disease, and hereditary aortopathies. An innovative outpatient clinic for "undiagnosed diseases" is also planned, in collaboration with the national clinical network, in addition to genetics, nutrition, and multi-imaging services.
Diagnostic-therapeutic pathways (PDTA) and support programs for the families of patients who die suddenly at a young age will also be implemented. On the organizational front, the UOSD will be the hub for regional epidemiological monitoring, healthcare planning, and the coordination of rare disease activities. It will also offer a multidisciplinary teleconsultation service for complex cases, with the aim of reducing diagnostic delays.
In collaboration with the University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," the facility will host clinical trials, internationally renowned research, and a Master's degree in rare diseases. "We are proud of this achievement, the fruit of great teamwork," commented Anna Iervolino. "The Center, networking with regional, national, and European organizations, will promote dedicated programs, transition programs from pediatric to adulthood, and training and research activities to support patients, families, and the scientific community."
Chronicles of Campania
Naples, the 'Dream Room' opens at the CTO: a refuge of dignity for patients at the end of life.
Since December 2025, 23 patients have found a place of welcome and humanity in the Naples CTO during the final moments of their…
It's very important that Naples has a new center for rare diseases, but I hope there are enough resources and staff to manage all the patients. Health is a serious matter and shouldn't be neglected.