A Cuban mother is urgently appealing for assistance for her 17-year-old son, who is battling a rare skin condition that leads to progressive hair loss and scarring on his scalp. Roberto Carlos Cabrera Rodríguez has been diagnosed with folliculitis decalvans, a chronic inflammatory disease that has severely affected him both physically and mentally over the past five years.
Living in Jesús Menéndez, Las Tunas, Roberto Carlos has been told by local doctors that nothing can be done for his condition. "The doctors say there's no cure, that it's chronic; I can no longer bear to see my son suffer," his mother, Yurixandra Aurora Rodríguez, expressed to the independent portal CubaNet. She described how the illness causes inflammation, severe pain, burning, and itching on her son's scalp, often filled with pus, making it difficult for him to sleep or eat.
Struggle for Treatment in a Challenging System
Roberto Carlos, who is in the 12th grade, has managed to attend school only twice this year, missing about six months of classes last year. Despite being seen by dermatologists and immunologists in various hospitals in Las Tunas, none of the treatments have been effective. He was last sent home without medication because "the disease has no cure."
However, a veteran dermatologist, speaking anonymously, emphasized that there are treatments for folliculitis decalvans, and patients can significantly improve. The specialist pointed out that the issue lies in Cuba's lack of necessary facilities and medications. "The causes can be bacteria or fungi, so the treatment should target both and is long-term, taking several months," the expert explained.
A Glimmer of Hope Amidst Despair
The dermatologist recommended that Roberto Carlos be hospitalized for thorough investigation and treatment under medical supervision. Diagnostic tests, including mycological and bacteriological cultures, are needed for an accurate diagnosis. Currently, he requires doxycycline, an antibiotic, followed by antifungal medications. Regular washing of the scalp with boiled water and ketoconazole shampoo is also essential.
"Recovery is lengthy but possible if treated properly with the necessary medications," the specialist emphasized. Despite the challenges, there remains a possibility for Roberto Carlos to regain his health if given the right care and resources.