A 14-year-old named Finley Ranson from England has a rare and unclassified medical condition that makes his body react to all food as if it were a virus, leading to internal bleeding. He is unable to eat or drink anything, and therefore relies on direct lipid infusions into his heart and other forms of nutritional support provided via a tube. His condition, which he has nicknamed ‘Finley-itis,’ has puzzled doctors worldwide, who have not encountered anyone else with the same ailment. Despite the challenges, his mother has been trained to administer the treatments at home, giving hope for a better quality of life.
Finley was diagnosed with the condition at a young age, and since he was four years old, he has received regular lipid infusions through a central line that delivers nutrients and minerals directly into his heart. This treatment has helped him maintain his health, and he has been able to gain weight and remain happy. However, the process has grown more frequent over the years, with the infusions now occurring twice a week. Doctors have attempted to introduce lipids into his stomach through a separate tube, but the reaction has often been severe, forcing them to retreat from the treatment. Despite these challenges, his mother continues to hope for a breakthrough that would allow Finley to eat normally. If such a solution is not possible, the family remains committed to living as best as they can in the current circumstances.
His condition has baffled medical professionals, who are unsure of the exact cause or the possibility of a cure. Although doctors have considered various possibilities, including an allergy to breast milk, the treatments have not yielded results. The rare nature of Finley’s condition means that it has not yet been classified, leaving the medical community without a clear understanding of the diagnosis. Doctors believe that his case is unique and could provide insights into the broader understanding of rare diseases and immune disorders. As his treatment continues, the focus remains on improving his quality of life and finding long-term solutions to manage the condition.
Finley’s mother has taken on the responsibility of administering the lipid infusions at home, which has been a significant step in managing his health. The family is hopeful that with continued medical support and potential advancements in research, a solution may be found in the future. While the medical community continues to search for answers, the Ranson family remains dedicated to their son’s well-being and the pursuit of a normal life for Finley.