KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian doctor has made history after winning first place at the Thieves Market Competition during the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Convergence 2025 held in Chicago, United States.
Dr Azmad Kareem Anwardeen, an Internal Medicine Specialist and Rheumatology Fellow at Putrajaya Hospital, received the top award for his case titled “The Tale of the Silent Guard and the Ceramic Core”.
The case centred on a 25-year-old patient whose immune system was not overactive but missing in action, leading to repeated infections and the hardening of the aorta, a condition known as “porcelain aorta”.
“The idea that the absence of immunity – not its excess – could cause inflammation stunned many,” Dr Azmad told Bernama.
His presentation on Oct 26 captivated the judges and audience with its blend of clinical reasoning and narrative clarity, highlighting how the absence of immunity can be as dangerous as an overactive immune system.
With more than 200 submissions from around the world, only four finalists were selected for a live presentation at the Thieves Market and Dr Azmad’s case secured an overwhelming 75 per cent of the audience votes.
The ACR Convergence, attended by more than 13,000 delegates from over 100 countries, is recognised as the world’s largest and most prestigious rheumatology meeting, bringing together clinicians, researchers and educators to share advances in autoimmune and musculoskeletal disease care.
Dr. Azmad, who is currently undergoing rheumatology training at King’s College Hospital in London, said the award represents not only a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Malaysia in global medicine.
“I never expected to stand on that stage, representing Malaysia.
“This win is not just mine, it belongs to my consultants, my team, and every patient who trusted us with their story,” he said. – BERNAMA
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