GMC Anantnag removes 9 cm leech

Anantnag, Feb 18: In a rare medical case, that freaked out netizens, the Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag successfully removed a large leech-like worm from the nostril of an adolescent boy.

The patient from Banihal arrived at the ENT department complaining of nasal blockage. The incident, video of which was circulated widely, created ripples across social media, with netizens shuddering at the rare sight. “ Upon examination, ENT resident Dr. Kishan identified what appeared to be a tail-like structure protruding inside the boy’s nose,” an official said. He said after consulting with the Head of the ENT Department, Dr Aamir, the team of doctors applied suction, successfully extracting a large leech-like worm.

“The specimen was later sent to the forensic laboratory to determine its exact nature,” an official said. Speaking to Greater Kashmir, Dr Aamir said that this was the first case of its kind in his career. "It appears to be a land leech, which the patient might have ingested possibly through drinking water or another means," he said. However, the patient and his family had no recollection of such an incident.

“The exact nature of the worm will be known after forensic examination,” Dr Aamir said. He said that the leech had likely been feeding on the patient's blood for an extended period, posing a serious health risk. "If left untreated, it could have been life-threatening," he said.

Principal and Dean of GMC Anantnag, Professor Dr Rukhsana Najeeb, commended the ENT department for their dedication and efficiency in serving the region’s patients with unwavering commitment.