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Riyadh: Dr. Almaghrabi, expert in infection control during transplants

Writer's picture: Caroline HaïatCaroline Haïat

Dr Reem Almaghrabi
Dr Reem Almaghrabi

Dr. Reem Almaghrabi, Head of Infectious Diseases at the Center of Excellence in Organ Transplantation at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh, is a leading figure in infection control in the transplant field. Known for her scientific rigor and empathy, her work is integral to KFSHRC’s mission to provide innovative care.


Leading research on infection management in transplant patients, Dr. Almaghrabi has shaped new approaches that reduce complications and improve patient outcomes. Her studies on the gut microbiome in liver transplant patients and infections in organ donors have influenced clinical practices that prioritize patient safety and long-term health. “In all cases, we aim not only for survival, but also for the quality of life that our patients deserve,” she says. These projects have provided insights into infection dynamics, paving the way for safer and more effective treatments.


Dr. Almaghrabi’s commitment to improving infection control was evident in her recent discovery of Stenotrophomonas Riyadhensis, a new bacterial species identified through whole genome sequencing (WGS).


This discovery addresses the growing global problem of antibiotic resistance, a particular challenge for high-risk transplant patients. “Accuracy is our best ally against antibiotic resistance,” says Dr. Almaghrabi. “By understanding the specific behaviors of pathogens, we are opening the door to ways to ensure the safety of our patients and the effectiveness of our care.”


One of her close colleagues in the department highlights the importance of her work: “Dr. Almaghrabi’s leadership in operating WGS has redefined our infection control standards at KFSHRC, improving diagnostic accuracy and enhancing patient safety.”


Her commitment to advancing patient care is also shaped by the challenges she has faced throughout her career. One memorable case involved a young patient with a rapidly spreading skin infection.


“Despite our best efforts, the infection progressed and we had to make the difficult decision to intubate,” she recalls. The experience, while deeply emotional, strengthened her resolve to improve patient outcomes.


Dr. Almaghrabi’s approach is deeply rooted in ethics, particularly patient safety and equity of care. She has co-authored studies that examine the ethical challenges surrounding organ transplantation, including issues of socioeconomic disparities in access to care. “We must be vigilant about the implications of every choice in medicine,” she says. “Our role goes beyond clinical care; we are advocates for ethical standards and patient well-being.”


As a veteran educator at KFSHRC, Dr. Almaghrabi teaches residents and fellows the importance of combining technical excellence with empathy. “Teaching allows me to stay at the forefront of advancements while instilling responsibility in the next generation,” she explains. For her, training future physicians is about developing technical expertise and nurturing a commitment to patient-centered care. “Medicine is not just about procedures, it’s also about accountability. It’s about understanding the patient journey and treating each case with empathy and respect,” she explains.


As technology advances, Dr. Almaghrabi is particularly excited about the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in infectious disease management for complex diagnostics in transplant patients. “AI offers unprecedented accuracy and speed, both of which are critical in managing infections in transplant patients,” she concludes.


Caroline Haïat



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