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When 16-month-old, Abdulla Omar Alhaj, checked in to Danat Al Emarat Hospital with a consistent fever, his family could never have predicted the ordeal that would follow. Abdulla was diagnosed with Wilms tumour, a rare kidney disease that can rapidly spread to other organs and be debilitating.
Over time, the disease had the potential to completely alter Abdulla’s life, however, through the dedication and professionalism of the medical team at Danat Al Emarat Hospital and the mental fortitude of him and his family, the tumour has been successfully removed and Abdulla is on course for a full recovery.
“We are very blessed to have had the support and compassionate care from Dr. Qazi and the extraordinary capabilities of the multidisciplinary team at Danat Al Emarat Hospital. We began this journey fearfully with Abdulla, which later transformed into hope and warmth,” Abdulla’s father Omar Abdulla Alhaj Ali told Aletihad.
“It was their unwavering support that carried us through our darkest moments, and today, as we witness Abdulla’s laughter and playful spirit, we are forever grateful for their help, care and commitment.”
Wilms tumour, also known as nephroblastoma, is a rare type of kidney cancer that primarily affects children, typically occurring before the age of five. It arises from immature kidney cells and is characterised by the development of a tumour within one or both kidneys.
Symptoms include abdominal swelling or pain, blood in the urine, fever, and general discomfort. Diagnosis often involves imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan, followed by biopsy for confirmation. Treatment typically includes surgery to remove the tumour, often coupled with chemotherapy and sometimes radiation therapy, depending on the stage and spread of the cancer.
“There are no preventive measures available, and since there isn’t a screening programme in place, it’s difficult to identify which patients may develop Wilms tumour. However, when delivering the news to parents that their child has this condition, it can have profound emotional impacts, especially considering the child’s young age,” Dr. Abid Qazi, Consultant, Paediatric Surgeon at Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women & Children told Aletihad. Dr. Qazi led a team of surgeons, anaesthesiologists and nurses to successfully remove the child’s tumour. Following the surgery, he underwent chemotherapy.
Dr. Qazi noted that treating this type of cancer goes beyond a successful surgery. A holistic approach to recovery is crucial in giving the child the chance to fully recover, he added.
“Wilms tumour, especially in a child as young as Abdulla, poses significant risks. Intra-tumour bleeding and high blood pressure amplify the complexity of the situation, requiring intensive preoperative and postoperative care. My goal was not just to remove the Wilms tumour, but to ensure a path towards a future filled with health, happiness and endless possibilities,” Dr. Qazi said.
