“Proteus, the Elephant Man, the Alien Hand, and Cotard”: Strange Rare Diseases That Baffle Scientists Around the World

Some of these strange diseases, which affect about 200,000 people worldwide, include: Elephant Man Syndrome, Alien Hand Syndrome, a disease that makes sufferers resemble human werewolves, and Cotard’s Syndrome.

elephant man syndrome

Elephant Man syndrome, also known as Proteus syndrome, was highlighted in the 1980 Hollywood film “The Elephant Man,” which was based on the true story of Joseph Merrick, a deformed man who lived in London in the late 19th century until his early death at the age of 27.

elephant man head

This incurable condition causes abnormal growth of bone tissue in certain parts of the body, and symptoms can begin to appear between the ages of 6 and 18 months.

This disorder is caused by a genetic defect, which leads to deformities that grow on or around the skull, abdomen, hands, and feet.

werewolf syndrome

This syndrome causes uncontrollable hair growth all over the body, including the face.

Also known as congenital hypertrichosis (CHL), symptoms usually appear in early childhood. Hair can grow up to two inches, but in more severe cases it can be longer.

While there is currently no cure for the condition, patients can manage the signs and symptoms through frequent shaving or waxing.

Cotard’s syndrome

Known as walking corpse syndrome, it is a rare condition where individuals believe they are missing body parts or that they are dead or dying.

Only 200 cases have been reported worldwide, and the cause is still unknown, but some experts suggest it may be a symptom of a neurological problem.

Alien Hand Syndrome (AHS)

It is known as a disorder that causes a person’s hand to move independently. It usually affects the left hand, which moves and performs actions without the person being aware of it.

Source: Mirror