Five-Year-Old Bedridden Filipino Boy Walks Again After Receiving Treatment for Rare Disease in UAE
In the heart of Abu Dhabi, at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), a remarkable story of hope, resilience, and medical excellence unfolded. Five-year-old Elijah, a Filipino boy, faced a daunting battle with chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO), a rare and little-known disease primarily affecting the long bones of children's lower limbs. His journey from being bedridden and in excruciating pain to walking again and returning to school is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the medical professionals at SKMC.
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A Mysterious and Debilitating Disease
CRMO is a condition that often goes undiagnosed due to its rarity and complex symptoms. Children and adolescents affected by CRMO experience a range of distressing symptoms, including bone or joint pain, localized bone swelling, tenderness, limping, loss of function, and skin lesions resembling psoriasis and acne. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for favorable outcomes, but many cases remain undetected.
Elijah's ordeal began with chronic back pain that left him bedridden, unable to enjoy the simple pleasures of childhood. The pain was relentless, casting a shadow over his young life. His concerned parents sought answers, and their quest led them to SKMC's rheumatology clinic.
The Journey to Diagnosis and Hope
At SKMC, Elijah underwent a series of investigations, including a comprehensive whole-body MRI scan. The results of these tests were both illuminating and concerning. Elijah was diagnosed with CRMO, a condition that had been causing his debilitating pain. However, this diagnosis also marked the beginning of his path to recovery.
Dr. Kamran Mahmood, a consultant pediatric rheumatologist at SKMC, took charge of Elijah's case. Dr. Mahmood's expertise and dedication were instrumental in guiding the young patient toward healing.
A Glimpse of Hope
With the prescribed treatment regimen, Elijah's condition began to show significant improvement. The pain that had once kept him bedridden gradually lessened, allowing him to regain the ability to stand and walk. The transformation was nothing short of miraculous.
Elijah's mother, overwhelmed with gratitude, shared her feelings: "I cannot express how grateful I am to Sheikh Khalifa Medical City for giving my son a second chance at life. Seeing him suffer from chronic back pain and become bedridden was heartbreaking. But with the new medication, his condition improved significantly, and he can now walk and attend school again. The care and compassion shown by the hospital's dedicated team of specialists have touched our hearts, and we will be forever thankful for the tireless efforts in treating my son."
A Beacon of Hope for Rare Diseases
Elijah's story of triumph is a testament to the exceptional healthcare provided by PureHealth, the largest healthcare platform in the Middle East. Through its subsidiary, SEHA's SKMC, PureHealth is making significant strides in diagnosing and treating rare musculoskeletal conditions in children.
Dr. Muna Al Hammadi, acting chief medical officer at SKMC, emphasized their commitment to exceptional pediatric care: "In line with the vision of PureHealth and under the directives of SEHA, we are committed to offering exceptional pediatric care to our patients. Our team of highly trained pediatric subspecialists, along with our state-of-the-art facilities, ensures that we provide a wide range of specialized treatments for various medical conditions. We will continue to prioritize excellence in pediatric healthcare and remain dedicated to serving our patients and their families with the utmost care and compassion."
Elijah's journey serves as a beacon of hope for children facing rare and debilitating diseases. It highlights the importance of early diagnosis, expert medical care, and unwavering support in the face of adversity.
As he returns to school with a newfound sense of freedom and joy, Elijah's story reminds us all that with the right medical intervention and a strong support system, we can overcome even the most formidable challenges life throws our way.
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By: Vibha Kapoor / Source: khaleejtimes
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