Iqbal Sheikh airlifted to Mumbai for treatment of mysterious skin condition

Iqbal Sheikh, a 16-year-old from the Murshidabad district in West Bengal, India, has been airlifted to Mumbai for specialist medical treatment after suffering from a mysterious condition for five years. To alleviate a severe burning sensation across his body, Sheikh spent much of his time submerged in ponds and rivers, a practice that gained widespread attention through social media videos.

Doctors are currently investigating the possibility that the teenager is suffering from erythromelalgia, a rare condition characterized by burning pain, redness, and unusually hot skin. While the condition typically affects the feet, Sheikh’s symptoms involve his entire body.

Following the viral spread of his story, Indian billionaire Anant Ambani reportedly intervened to facilitate his medical care. Sheikh is now receiving treatment at Sir HN Reliance Hospital in Mumbai, where specialists are conducting tests to reach a definitive diagnosis and manage his symptoms.