Shaikha's Journey: Overcoming Misdiagnosis and Finding Recovery at GOSH

Meet Shaikha, a lively and active young girl from the UAE who loves sports and exploring her surroundings. For over a year, undiagnosed high blood pressure began interfering with her daily life, causing symptoms like dizziness and fatigue that prevented her from enjoying the activities she once loved. The ongoing hospital visits and constant monitoring took a toll on her family. Shaikha’s parents were deeply concerned about her health and future as they watched their daughter face these challenges. Their focus became finding answers and a solution. 

"For a year, I was sick and had to go to the hospital," Shaikha recalled. "They checked my blood pressure, and it was very high. They monitored it, but it stayed high. They transferred me to a hospital in Abu Dhabi, and then to one in Dubai, but they still couldn’t find the correct diagnosis. It was only when we came to London and visited GOSH that we finally discovered what was really going on." 

On August 2024, Shaikha and her family travelled from Abu Dhabi to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London, seeking answers. 

 
After facing challenges with her initial diagnosis and treatment, Shaikha was later accurately diagnosed with renovascular hypertension at GOSH. This rare condition is difficult to detect due to its subtle symptoms and occurs when narrowed or blocked blood vessels supplying the kidneys restrict blood flow, prompting the kidneys to release hormones that raise blood pressure. Shaikha explained, “They found out that I had tightness in the artery of the left kidney, which was the cause of my high blood pressure.” 

 
Dr. Jelena Stojanovic, Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist at GOSH and Shaikha’s lead consultant, explained, “Shaikha had to take regular medication for blood pressure control, but even with two drugs, her blood pressure remained very high. She could not participate in sports activities, which was very disappointing for her, as she is a very active young girl.” 

 
The correct diagnosis marked a turning point for Shaikha and her family. "We were so relieved to finally have an accurate diagnosis," said Budoor, Shaikha’s mother. "The last year had been so difficult for us, not knowing what was wrong." 

Dr Jelena Stojanovic with Shaikha and her mother

A Collaborative Approach 

The multidisciplinary team at GOSH, which includes specialists from diagnostic and interventional radiology, the Nuclear Medicine department, nephrology, and vascular surgery, collaborated to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. 

This plan involved performing renal angiography and angioplasty to address the narrowed arteries. "We scheduled Shaikha for renal angiography and angioplasty to widen the constricted section of the renal artery," explained Dr. Stojanovic. During the procedure, Dr. Premal Patel and Dr. Kishore Minhas utilised specialised equipment to expand Shaikha's left kidney artery, resulting in an immediate improvement in her blood pressure. 

Experiencing Life at GOSH 

While at GOSH, Shaikha's experience extended beyond just medical care. "I went to museums, tourist attractions, and even horse riding," she shared. "The Play Team also brought me games and arts and crafts to keep me entertained." 

Her mother, Budoor, was deeply moved by the care they received. "The team at GOSH made us feel like family," she said. "Everyone, from the doctors to the management staff, was incredibly helpful and supportive." 

Post-Treatment Life and Future Outlook 

Shaikha’s recovery was managed carefully, with close monitoring in London before her return to Dubai. Her journey at GOSH not only alleviated her immediate health concerns but also restored her ability to engage in physical activities without restrictions. "I can do many physical things now," Shaikha joyfully shared, highlighting her excitement to return to sports and other activities she loves. 

“Before Shaikha returned to Dubai, her blood pressure had returned to normal, and she was no longer taking any medication for it. This is a huge improvement and demonstrates the success of the angioplasty. "She now takes only one medication to thin her blood, which is required for all patients after this type of intervention," said Dr. Stojanovic. 

Looking ahead, Shaikha will require regular follow-ups to monitor her condition, as renovascular hypertension can be progressive. However, with the right care and management Shaikha and her family remain optimistic about her future.

 Shaikha and her mother, Budoor

A Message of Gratitude 

Budoor expressed gratitude toward the GOSH team: "We are very grateful to all the teams at GOSH. What they did is amazing; they provided exceptional care." Shaikha added, "Thank you to GOSH and everyone for helping me. Now I can do everything I love again, and I feel like I have my life back." 

Dr. Jelena Stojanovic reflected on the uniqueness of Shaikha's case, highlighting GOSH's long-standing expertise in managing renovascular hypertension in children. "GOSH renovascular service has over 20 years of expertise. We are the largest European centre able to diagnose and treat this condition in children of all ages." 

Shaikha’s journey at GOSH International and Private Care highlights the hospital's commitment to delivering high-quality care through a collaborative approach. The multidisciplinary team worked seamlessly together to diagnose and treat her condition, ensuring Shaikha received the best possible care. Thanks to their expert collaboration, Shaikha regained her health and has been able to return to the activities she loves, a testament to the profound impact of her treatment. 

Family with Dr Jelena Stojanovic