Arafat’s illness still a mystery for French doctors

HAVING ruled out leukaemia, French doctors were trying for a third day to determine what was causing the dramatic deterioration in Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat’s health.

Palestinian officials gave conflicting reports on when results from further tests were expected.

Mohammed Rashid, a close Arafat aide, said results were due on Wednesday, but Palestinian Cabinet minister Saeb Erekat said Mr Arafat’s doctors would issue a medical report in the next 48 hours.

Palestinian foreign minister Nabil Shaath said 75-year-old Mr Arafat’s condition had improved markedly since he was taken on Friday from the West Bank to a French military hospital.

Mr Arafat ate cereal, milk and tea, said Mr Shaath, who was speaking from Ramallah on the West Bank.

“He’s much better, he’s really much better, and he’s more cheerful,” Mr Shaath said. “He’s more lively. He’s less tired and we are awaiting a final assessment made by the French doctors about the diagnosis.”

Mr Shaath said examinations had ruled out leukaemia “or any other cancer.” However, no doctors or other specialists have publicly confirmed that conclusion. The only problem that has been announced is a low blood platelet count.

“There are many tests to be done in the coming days to find out the reason why the blood platelets are decreasing,” Mr Shaath said.

Platelets are blood components that aid clotting. A low count indicates a possible problem with the bone marrow, where blood cells are made.