A mother from Coventry has spoken of her shock after her four-year-old son was diagnosed with a disease more commonly associated with Victorian-era slums, following months of having her concerns dismissed by doctors.
"He'd walk and run funny": The First Signs
Megan West first noticed something was wrong with her son, Elliot, in December 2024. The little boy had developed an unusual gait, swinging his hips from side to side, flaring his arms out, and walking with his feet turned far outwards. Concerned, Megan repeatedly took Elliot to their GP.
Initially, medical professionals suggested his strange walk might be linked to a viral infection. On other visits, when Megan raised concerns about Elliot's significant weight loss and leg weakness, she was told he was likely just naturally skinny like his father or, more distressingly, that he might be "doing it for attention" because of his new baby sister.
The Devastating Diagnosis
It wasn't until June 2025, after a trip to A&E, that the family received a definitive answer. An X-ray revealed that Elliot was suffering from spinal tuberculosis, a bacterial infection affecting the bones of the spine. The scan also showed calcified lymph nodes in his lungs, indicating a previous TB infection.
Spinal tuberculosis, also known as Pott's disease, is a condition historically linked to overcrowded and poorly ventilated living conditions, making it rare in modern developed nations like the UK. "It is a disease from very long ago," Megan said, recalling her shock when doctors warned that without treatment, his spine could collapse.
Recovery and a Message to Parents
Elliot's treatment has been intensive, requiring surgery and a powerful, lengthy course of antibiotics. His recovery is ongoing, and he remains restricted to walking short distances, spending much of his time at home. He may face another surgery within six months depending on the results of a future CT scan.
While Megan does not blame the GP for missing such a rare condition, she has a clear message for other parents. "Listen to your child and push when you don't feel things are right," she urged. "No one knows their child better than yourself... Kids don't fake things for too long for attention." She emphasised that while GPs are experts, they don't always get it right, and parental instinct is crucial.
What is Spinal Tuberculosis?
According to the NHS, tuberculosis (TB) is an infection that usually affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body like the spine, bones, or brain. When it spreads, symptoms can include:
- Swollen glands
- Body aches and pains
- Swollen joints or ankles
- A stiff neck or headaches
It is treatable with antibiotics but can be serious if not diagnosed promptly.
