A mother from Coventry, West Midlands, has shared her harrowing experience after her four-year-old son, Elliot, was misdiagnosed with a rare disease for several months. Initially told his symptoms were merely for attention, it was not until June 2025 that doctors revealed he was suffering from spinal tuberculosis, a condition more commonly associated with Victorian slums.
Elliot began displaying unusual symptoms in December 2024, including a peculiar gait where he walked with his feet angled outward and his arms flared. His mother, Megan West, expressed concern over his deteriorating condition, including noticeable weight loss. Despite multiple visits to their general practitioner, she was continually reassured that Elliot’s symptoms were attributable to viral infections or simply a case of jealousy towards his newborn sister.
Megan described the frustration of seeking help, stating, “I took him to the GP so many times but was always told it was a viral infection.” After noticing that Elliot’s legs appeared weak, she insisted on further evaluation. Finally, an emergency visit led to an X-ray that revealed calcified lymph nodes in Elliot’s lungs, confirming the presence of tuberculosis.
The diagnosis of spinal tuberculosis is particularly alarming, as it can lead to severe complications, including the potential collapse of the spine. Megan reflected on the moment she learned the truth, saying, “When it came up, I thought maybe it would be a simple infection. Then they turned around and said his spine will collapse.”
Elliot required immediate surgery and a rigorous course of antibiotics to manage the infection. Currently, he is limited in his mobility and spends most of his time recovering at home. Megan noted that he cannot engage in normal activities like other children his age and may require additional surgery in the next six months if the mass on his spine does not shrink sufficiently.
Despite the distressing ordeal, Megan emphasized her understanding of the complexities involved in diagnosing such a rare condition, particularly in children. “I do not blame his GP for any of this. I understand TB is especially difficult to diagnose in children,” she stated. However, she expressed a desire for her concerns to have been taken more seriously during previous consultations.
The NHS explains that tuberculosis (TB) primarily affects the lungs but can manifest in other parts of the body, including bones and lymph nodes. Symptoms can vary but may include body aches, swollen glands, and persistent pain in the abdomen or pelvis. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical, as untreated TB can lead to serious health complications.
Megan’s experience serves as a poignant reminder for parents and caregivers to trust their instincts regarding their children’s health. “Listen to your child and push when you don’t feel things are right because no one knows their child better than yourself,” she advised.
As Elliot continues his recovery, Megan remains hopeful and committed to advocating for his health, urging others to remain vigilant and proactive in seeking medical attention.
