In a remarkable testament to medical dedication and innovation, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh has supported a patient with a rare genetic blood clotting disorder for 22 years, culminating in the world’s first liver transplant for this condition.
The patient’s journey began in infancy, when she exhibited alarming symptoms within her first months of life. KFSHRC’s medical teams moved swiftly to stabilize her, eventually diagnosing her with congenital plasminogen deficiency—a rare disorder in which the body lacks plasminogen, a protein vital for dissolving blood clots. This deficiency led to dangerous fibrous deposits in her tissues and organs, threatening her health and quality of life.
Her complex case demanded a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Beyond medical intervention, KFSHRC mobilized teams from nursing, nutrition, and information technology, working alongside hematology and transplant specialists to address every aspect of her care. The patient’s father recalled those early years with emotion: “My daughter suffered from the moment she was born. She cried constantly and couldn’t nurse. We lived in continuous worry with no clear answers until God opened a door of hope. Today, thanks to God first, and then to the remarkable healthcare capabilities provided by the Government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, may God preserve them, we witness our daughter’s recovery from this rare disease after two decades of struggle.”
For years, the patient depended on regular intravenous plasminogen infusions and eye drops to protect her vision. The annual cost of her treatment exceeded 6 million SAR, all covered by the Saudi government, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting even the most complex medical cases and prioritizing quality of life.
Dr. Hazzaa Al-Zahrani, Director of Adult Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant Division at KFSHRC Riyadh, emphasized the challenge of managing such a rare disorder. After careful deliberation, the team opted for a liver transplant—an extraordinary and unprecedented solution for this condition. The successful surgery not only transformed the patient’s life but also set a global precedent, offering hope to others with similar rare diseases.
This achievement highlights KFSHRC’s patient-centered vision, where advanced science and compassionate care combine to deliver world-class healthcare and inspire hope for families facing the most daunting medical challenges.
Post-surgery, Arjun experienced a significant improvement in his physical health /Lepra
Firoza and Rupali