HOEDSPRUIT – Fresh medical concerns have emerged in the ongoing health battle of Troy Matthysen (17), just weeks after specialists confirmed that his rare tumour had returned and progressed significantly.

Troy, who has spent years battling Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma (JNA), is now being assessed for a suspected Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) leak, a potentially life-threatening complication that could place him at risk of meningitis and severe infection.

Rare tumour continues to affect young patient

Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma is a rare tumour that develops in the nasal and sinus region, primarily affecting adolescent boys.

Although medically classified as benign, the tumour is known for its aggressive growth due to its location near vital structures in the head and brain.

Troy has undergone multiple surgeries, radiation treatment, and extensive medical intervention over the years in an effort to manage the condition.

Family raises alarm over worsening symptoms

According to Troy’s dad, Jeff, the family became increasingly alarmed after Troy’s symptoms worsened rapidly over the past few days.

“We definitely think Troy has got a CSF leak,” Jeff said.

“His headaches and nausea have been getting worse, and then fluid suddenly poured from his nose. With a cranial fluid leak, the danger is that any infection can lead to meningitis, and then you’ve got very big problems.”

The family says Troy has recently experienced severe headaches, ongoing nausea, extreme exhaustion, and prolonged periods of sleeping, raising concerns that his condition may be deteriorating further.

Urgent specialist consultation underway

Doctors are now arranging an urgent consultation with specialist Dr Harry Moolman in Pretoria to determine whether the suspected leak is linked to tumour regrowth, previous surgeries, radiation treatment, or complications from an earlier craniotomy procedure.

The latest health scare follows recent medical reviews in which specialists examined scans spanning the past four years alongside new imaging.

According to the family, doctors confirmed notable growth of the tumour despite previous treatment and surgery.

Previous complications heighten concern

Jeff explained that the current situation is particularly frightening because Troy has experienced similar complications before, nearly losing his life due to severe infection.

“The last time this happened, he almost died twice,” he said. “He landed up in a coma, and his infection levels were dangerously high. That’s why we know how serious this is.”

Family remains hopeful amid difficult journey

Despite the seriousness of the situation, the Matthysen family remains hopeful that further specialist assessments will provide answers and a clear treatment plan. “We’re trying to move this process along as quickly as possible,” Jeff said. “Right now, we just need answers and a plan forward.”

The family has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from the community during Troy’s ongoing medical journey.

Messages of encouragement and assistance continue to pour in as supporters rally around the teenager and his family during what has become another difficult chapter in his fight against the rare condition.