Mr Bhagwat Singh Rathore was reading his morning paper when he realized that his vision is blurred and he is not able to focus his sight. In fact he realized that the peripheral vision of his right eye was diminishing. But as he discussed the same with his wife, they decided to ignore the same with middle age eye sight related issues.
However as the days progressed the Rajasthan Administrative Services Officer based at Ajmer, realized that there could be more to it. “My vision was deteriorating continuously, I was scared. My complete right side vision was blocked and I only had sight in my left eye. With my concerns I decided to contact an ophthalmologist – eye specialist at Ajmer. The specialist shared that although my eyes were fine externally, a routine eye examination would not be enough to point out the issue. I went through an MRI which showed some abnormality. I was then referred to a Neuro-Physician who examined me, went through my reports and shared that I may have a tumor. This was the most difficult fact for my family to process. Being the sole earning member of the family, in a government job, I felt as if the sky was falling. Ajmer is a small city that has basic healthcare facilities, but is not equipped to provide exceptional tertiary care. I discussed with my friends and family members, that’s when Dr VS Mehta’s name came up. A Padma Shri and a former HOD from AIIMS, he had the best clinical background that one could ask for.”
According to Dr (Prof) VS Mehta, Padma Shri, Director & HOD Neurosciences, Paras Hospitals, Gurgaon, “Bhagwat was a typical case of Pituitary Adenoma, a large benign tumor found in 8-10% of the Brain Tumour cases. The same can be of two types-hormone secreting, causing havoc in the body and non functioning endocrine inactive adenoma. Bhagwat’s primary symptoms were all conclusive of the same, they included- Headaches, blurry vision, vision obstruction, mood swings and weight change. His MRI highlighted a 30×44 mm Pituitary Tumor in the Pituitary Fossa. Although his main symptom was just loosing eyesight, his disease was much more complicated. We performed a brain tumor surgery through nose (called as TransNasal approach)”.
He further added that, “His vision improved significantly immediate post operation and at present he has a normal vision. Today after 5 years of the surgery he looks healthy, has good vision, has no health issues and his MRI shows no tumour. We appreciate the keenness of his family for opting for timely treatment and regular follow up.”
When asked about his experience, Bhagwat smiles and says, “This experience has made me stronger as an individual. I have learnt to handle stress, recover and most importantly trust people who care for me. Just like I trust my family, I depend on Dr Mehta. He is indeed an integral part of my life, my support system.”
