Brandi Glanville is taking significant steps in her ongoing battle with facial disfigurement thanks to a new treatment plan guided by Dr. Michael Scoma, an infectious disease specialist based in New York City. The former star of *The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills* opened up about her health struggles in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, revealing that she met Dr. Scoma online and he is optimistic about helping her improve her condition.
Glanville, now 52, has been facing severe health issues since returning from Morocco in January 2023. Following her participation in *The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip* season 4, she discovered that she had contracted a parasite. After years of misdiagnoses, she has finally begun a treatment regimen that includes IV antibiotics and fungal medications administered through a PICC line in her arm.
“I always joke my life is like *The Last of Us*; I’m just turning into one of those black mold people,” Glanville expressed, illustrating the gravity of her situation. She described feeling “a wreck” but remains determined to maintain a positive outlook.
Understanding the Treatment Approach
Dr. Scoma’s strategy involves a multi-phase treatment plan aimed at addressing Glanville’s deep tissue infections, which have spread beyond her face to her head, neck, shoulders, collarbone, and left arm. Glanville noted that the infection mimics symptoms of a parasite, creating fluid-filled lumps that shift on her face. “A lot of this infection… has this fluid that jumps around your face because it’s spreading,” she explained.
The first phase of treatment, while crucial, is only a temporary measure. Dr. Scoma indicated that once the infection is under control, they will transition to long-term oral antibiotic therapy, which will require close monitoring and adjustments based on Glanville’s progress. “We can expect to see meaningful progress within the next few weeks, and I do believe Brandi can make a full recovery,” he stated.
Glanville’s health journey has also been financially burdensome, costing her over $130,000 in medical bills. To alleviate some of this stress, she has partnered with healthcare strategist Rachel Strauss, known as the PBM Princess. Strauss aims to help Glanville navigate her medical expenses and advocate for the proper billing procedures with hospitals.
Future Prospects and Personal Reflections
Despite the ongoing challenges, Glanville remains hopeful about her recovery. She emphasized the importance of adhering to Dr. Scoma’s treatment protocols, which include a protein-rich diet, proper rest, and strategies to support her immune health. She must also address the financial implications of her medical care, as the mounting bills have added to her stress.
In addressing her cosmetic concerns, Glanville has consulted with multiple doctors, some of whom have attributed her facial disfigurement to previous cosmetic procedures. She made it clear that while she dreams of undergoing a facelift in the future, any cosmetic surgery will be on hold until her health stabilizes. “It’s going to be at least a year before I can do anything cosmetic, and I won’t ever get an injection again,” she asserted.
Dr. Scoma echoed the sentiment that cosmetic procedures will be considered only after her health is fully restored. “Right now, our focus is on treating Brandi’s long-standing infection and its secondary effects,” he reiterated.
As Glanville navigates this challenging chapter in her life, her resilience shines through. She continues to share her journey, hoping that raising awareness about her health issues will inspire others facing similar battles.
