British man, 70, loses legs to rare fungal infection in London

A 70-year-old British man, Rick Viner, had both legs amputated after being diagnosed with a rare fungal infection, known as Aspergillus fumigatus aortitis, in London. The incident occurred in 2021 during a walk with his wife when he suddenly lost strength in his legs and was hospitalized. The infection, which affected the aorta and caused blood clots, required emergency surgery. This extremely rare condition drastically changed the life of the retiree, who now relies on medications and prosthetics.

Before the episode, Viner, a resident of Oxfordshire, England, was active and planning to enjoy retirement with travel. His daughter, Gemma Brooks, said he walked long distances and showed no severe symptoms until the collapse. The family, initially relieved by a slight recovery, was shocked by the need for bilateral amputation.

• Impact of the infection: Blood clots blocked circulation in the legs.
• Treatment: Antifungal medications control the disease, with no definitive cure.
• Surgery: Amputation below the knees was unavoidable after other procedures failed.

The family is now focused on creating memories and raising funds for fungal infection research.

Origin of the infection

Aspergillus fumigatus aortitis is a rare condition affecting the aorta, the body’s main artery. In Viner’s case, the fungus lodged in a heart valve installed years earlier, spreading through the bloodstream.

Doctors found that the heart was pumping the fungus, causing clots that damaged the legs. The condition is hard to diagnose and treat, with few recorded cases.

Treatment and complications

Viner takes about 30 pills daily, including antifungals to control the infection. Even with treatment, there is no guarantee of a cure, and the disease’s progression is uncertain.

In 2022, a bone infection required another surgery on his left leg. He also suffered strokes that affected his speech and memory.

His wife, Zena, became a full-time caregiver, assisting with prosthetics and daily tasks.

Despite the challenges, Viner maintains an adapted routine, using a wheelchair.

Adapting to the new reality

Viner’s family faces daily challenges but strives to stay positive. Gemma noted that her father has accepted his condition and tries to enjoy time with loved ones.

Trips, such as a 2024 cruise, have been a way to create memories. Family unity has been crucial in coping with the limitations imposed by the disease.

Supporting research

Gemma Brooks, Viner’s daughter, is participating in the Oxford half-marathon to raise funds for the Fungal Infection Trust. The initiative aims to support research on rare fungal infections, which lack effective treatments.

The family also supports Diabetes UK, as Gemma’s younger brother has type 1 diabetes.

Impact of the rare disease

Fungal aortitis is a severe complication, often linked to cardiac procedures. In Viner’s case, the infection progressed silently, worsened by initial symptoms mistaken for common issues.

Late diagnosis is a challenge, as the disease is rare and symptoms can be nonspecific.

The condition requires constant monitoring, with risks of further complications like secondary infections or additional clots.

Viner continues intensive treatment, with the family focused on cherishing every moment and supporting medical research.