Bithi Akhtar
Bangladesh- Rare Condition: Bangladeshi Girl with 'Werewolf Syndrome'
- Medical Diagnosis and Symptoms
- Impact on Life and Education
- Family Distress
- Hope from Hospital Care
- Ongoing Treatment and Prognosis
Rare Condition: Bangladeshi Girl with 'Werewolf Syndrome'
Birth and Early ChildhoodA 12-year-old girl named Bithi Akhter from Tangail, Bangladesh, has been suffering from a rare and debilitating condition since birth. Her entire body is covered in a thick layer of hair, resembling 'werewolf syndrome.' This condition has also caused severe breast enlargement.
Medical Diagnosis and Symptoms
Experts speculate that Bithi's condition may be a severe manifestation of hirsutism, a hormonal disorder that causes excessive male-pattern hair growth in women. The hair is described as dark, coarse, and long. Additionally, Bithi has experienced precocious puberty, leading to uncontrolled breast growth.
Impact on Life and Education
Bithi's physical pain and heavy breasts have caused her to stoop and become unable to attend school. The excessive hair and breast growth have also resulted in ridicule from her peers, leading to social withdrawal.
Family Distress
Bithi's parents are deeply concerned about her well-being and have exhausted all possible resources to find a solution. They have taken out loans to pay for her medical care.
Hope from Hospital Care
Bithi's case has gained attention at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) in Dhaka. Doctors believe that her condition may have a genetic component and are working to determine the underlying cause.
Ongoing Treatment and Prognosis
Dr. Farid Uddin, head of BSMMU's endocrinology department, has stated that Bithi requires further investigation and treatment to alleviate her symptoms. The doctors are hopeful that they can provide her with the best possible care.
