Histiocytoses are diseases affecting white blood cells known as histiocytes, which are part of the immune system and, in health, are important in preventing infections. There are several types of histiocyte and therefore several diseases caused by these cells. There are two main forms of Histiocytosis: Heamophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) See the Histiocytosis Research Trust for more information on these and other Histiocyte diseases.

The Nikolas Symposium is an annual scientific conference hosted in Greece and funded by the Kontoyannis family in honour of Nikolas Kontoyannis who suffered from severe multi-system LCH as a baby and for many years afterwards.  Nik survived against the odds and even now he has some significant “late effects” of the disease, however he remains resolutely determined to do what he can to raise awareness of the disease and encourage scientists and clinicians to keep working and keep thinking of Histiocytosis.

The Nikolas Symposium XIX, May 8-11th, 2009

THEME: Viral, Autoimmune and Neoplastic Mechanisms of

Granuloma Formation: Possible Relevance To LCH

The Dr Jonathon Pritchard Fellowship 2009

One to two young investigators are selected annually to receive a travel award to support their attendance at the meeting and to allow them to present their work on LCH. Funds available through this fellowship cover the costs of airfare, taxi in Greece, lodging and meals during the meeting. The travel award has been named in memory of Dr. Jon Pritchard, one of the physicians who cared for Nikolas.

Who should apply: Anyone interested in basic or translational studies of the histiocytic syndromes may apply. This also includes research on dendritic cell or macrophage biology. Click here for more details.