'As If Your Body Is Eating Itself': US Woman Diagnosed With Rare Disease

In a startling incident in America, a woman woke up one day to discover her skin resembling that of a lizard, leaving her completely shocked and bewildered. Laura Otting shared her journey of diagnosis with a rare illness that affects approximately 800 people in the United States.

Upon waking one morning, Laura noticed her hand bearing an uncanny resemblance to lizard skin. Further examination revealed her body covered in welts and spots, prompting her to seek medical attention. After undergoing multiple medical evaluations, she received a diagnosis of a rare autoimmune disease.

Laura recounted experiencing dry, patchy skin with unusual markings akin to lizard scales, symptoms that gradually worsened over several days. Initially attributing a dry cough in November 2020 to COVID-19, she underwent numerous tests which all yielded negative results, leaving her perplexed. Concerned, she underwent additional screenings for lung cancer, lymphoma and HIV, all of which returned negative results.

“In late November 2020 I developed a dry, hacking cough,” said Laura. “I took about a dozen Covid-19 tests over the next four weeks, but they were all negative. Still, the cough persisted. I felt fine, I worked out hard, and I just had this annoying and unrelenting cough.”

Despite her persistent cough and worsening skin condition in 2021, with skin on her fingertips peeling like that of a reptile and peculiar marks appearing on her shoulders and arms, Laura’s condition remained undiagnosed. Despite consulting multiple doctors and trying various medications, creams and lotions, her symptoms only intensified, making daily activities such as wearing clothes and shoes or sleeping increasingly challenging.

“It’s as if your body is trying to eat itself from the outside in,” she said.

After undergoing numerous tests, Laura was ultimately diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris (PRP). Enduring cracked and peeling skin, she sought relief through hours-long lukewarm oatmeal baths. Following several rounds of chemotherapy and medication, she achieved remission and resumed running marathons.

Reflecting on her experience, Laura emphasised the importance of facing such diseases with courage rather than succumbing to fear. Her journey underscores the challenges individuals face in navigating rare and poorly understood medical conditions, highlighting the need for greater awareness and research in this field.